If you're looking for the best way to clean composite wood decks, this blog will walk you through exactly what works and why.
Key Takeaways
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Composite wood deck cleaners are specially designed to clean without damaging finishes.
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Use the right cleaner for deck tiles, spindles, boards, and handrails.
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A good cleaning routine increases your deck’s lifespan and enhances appearance.
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Always rinse thoroughly and follow up with UV protection if possible.
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Whitby Marine Products makes cleaning your outdoor wood simple and effective.
Why Composite Wood Deck Cleaners Matter
Composite wood might seem low maintenance, but grime, algae, and mildew still build up fast—especially in shaded or damp areas. Using the wrong cleaner can dull finishes, degrade protective coatings, or leave behind residues that attract more dirt.
Whitby Marine Products offers a dedicated composite wood deck cleaner that’s tough on buildup but gentle on your outdoor space. It’s safe for:
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Treated wood for decks
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Wood deck tiles
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Wood deck spindles and handrails
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Painted or sealed wood deck boards
What Makes a Great Deck Cleaner?
You want a product that cleans thoroughly without harming the integrity or finish of your composite materials. Here are some features to look for:
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Non-corrosive formula: Won’t eat away at wood fibers or protective coatings.
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Biodegradable: Safe for runoff into gardens or lawns.
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UV protection: Helps fight fading in sun-exposed areas.
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Foaming action: Clings to vertical surfaces like spindles and handrails.
Bonus Tip:
Always test your cleaner on a small hidden area before applying across your whole deck.
How to Clean Your Deck in 4 Simple Steps
Cleaning doesn’t have to be a hassle. In fact, it’s easier than most people think.
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Sweep first – Clear away leaves, dirt, and loose debris.
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Apply cleaner – Use a pump sprayer, sponge, or soft brush.
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Let it sit – Allow 5–10 minutes for it to penetrate grime.
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Rinse off – Use a garden hose or gentle pressure washer.
Repeat every few months or as needed depending on weather and traffic.
The Whitby Marine Products Difference
Our composite wood deck cleaner is designed to work hard without damaging your deck. Whether you're prepping for summer, cleaning after a storm, or just maintaining curb appeal, Xanigo Dock & Deck Cleaner makes it simple.
It’s trusted by detailers, boat owners, and homeowners alike.
Our cleaner is also safe for use on:
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Fencing
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Dock walkways
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Stairs and banisters
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Garden wood features
It restores a like-new look without stripping sealants or leaving behind a filmy residue.
Tips to Keep Your Deck Cleaner for Longer
After using a cleaner, there are a few ways to keep your deck in better shape between washes:
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Use a broom weekly to reduce buildup.
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Avoid placing mats or rugs that trap moisture.
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Seal exposed ends of wood deck boards to limit absorption.
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Trim nearby shrubs to let more light and airflow reach the surface.
Watch Out for These Common Mistakes
Many people unintentionally cause more harm than good. Here are a few things to avoid:
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Using bleach or household degreasers (can damage finishes)
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Scrubbing with metal brushes (can scratch composite materials)
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Not rinsing fully (leaves behind residue and dulls the surface)
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Cleaning during direct sun (causes streaking and faster drying)
Get Your Composite Deck Cleaner Now →
What About Wood Railings, Spindles, and Trim?
These often get overlooked, but they’re just as vulnerable to dirt and weather. Luckily, Xanigo Dock & Deck Cleaner works on vertical and detailed areas just as well as flat surfaces.
Use a microfiber mitt or soft sponge to reach between tight areas like:
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Baluster gaps
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Under handrails
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Corner trim and posts
Allow product to foam, sit, then rinse. It really is that easy.
Maintenance Schedule to Follow
To keep your deck looking its best all year long, here’s a general timeline:
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Spring: Deep clean to prepare for outdoor season.
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Summer: Light rinse or spot-clean after heavy traffic.
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Fall: Clear leaves and wash before winter storage.
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Winter: Sweep off snow when possible; avoid salt buildup.
Final Thoughts
A great-looking deck adds value and comfort to your outdoor living space. But it won’t stay that way on its own. Investing in a reliable composite wood deck cleaner makes the process fast and worry-free.
You’ll extend the life of your deck boards, tiles, and even those hard-to-reach spindles and handrails.
For alternate ways to clean a composite deck, click here.
Keep your deck looking new. Order Whitby Marine Products' Composite Deck Cleaner today. →