Will Your Cleaning Chemicals Harm My Plants?

Here, you can see our foreman Jon pre-rinsing some plants, the first step of our washing process.

When I am out estimating for house washes, “Will Your Cleaning Chemicals Harm My Plants?” is hands down one of the most common questions I get asked. If you are concerned about your landscaping during the house washing process, you can rest assured knowing that we take extra steps to ensure the safety of your plants throughout the cleaning.

            Our house washing solution is made up of a mixture of sodium hypochlorite, a house/roof wash soap, and water. That solution is then further diluted with water when it is applied to the house. This mixture quickly breaks down dirt and kills organic growths like mold or lichen. However, it can be harmful to plants in high concentrations or with prolonged exposure. So how do we keep your plants safe?

Step 1: Pre-Wet the Landscaping

-          We thoroughly rinse all of your plants as the first step of our washing process.

-          This allows plants to absorb clean water before we apply the cleaner.

Step 2: Controlled Application

-          We then apply the cleaning solution to the home, being careful to avoid overspray as much as possible.

-          Our employees are trained to adjust their cleaner applying techniques according to wind direction, wind strength, plant placement, and home layout.

Step 3: Post-Rinse After Cleaning

-          After the washing is complete, we rinse all of the plants again to remove any residue that may have settled during the cleaning.

This last rinse is one of the keys to making sure the plants are left free of damage!

This three-step process has been our standard for over 15+ years, and while it cannot guarantee a 100% risk free wash, it minimizes the risks of plant damage to near-zero. The vast majority of our customers over the years have experienced no visible plant damage at all! If you have very sensitive plants or specific concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to me directly.

If you are looking for ways that you can help protect your own plants for the house washing process, there are two things you can do that can be effective. The first is to water your plants shortly before the house wash. Though this would likely not be enough on its own to protect your plants, it can help ensure that your plants are not starving for moisture when we do the house wash. The second is to move potted plants inside or away from the home. This will guarantee that no cleaner will reach those potted plants, eliminating any chance of damage from the cleaning solution.

Remember, our team is well trained in how to work around your landscaping carefully! Protecting plants is a part of nearly every wash we do and it is just as important to us as cleaning up your home. Our careful process is designed to leave your property looking spotless, without harming what’s growing around your it. Have any more questions? Want to schedule a FREE quote? Contact us today!