5 Best Aluminum Siding Cleaners

An aluminum siding cleaner is a product that cleans the surface of your aluminum siding. Aluminum siding cleaners are also known as cleaning agents, exterior window cleaners, or all-purpose house cleaners. 

Most people use a different product to clean the aluminum siding than they would for their glass windows or patio furniture. This is because aluminum siding has special needs that glass and other materials do not have.

The best aluminum siding cleaner should be safe, effective, and easy to use with no leaves streaks, or residue on your home’s exterior.

For many homeowners, the first line of defense against dirt and stains on aluminum siding is an aluminum cleaner. There are a variety of different brands of aluminum cleaners to choose from, with some being better than others. To help you find the best aluminum cleaner for your needs, we have compiled a guide that will answer common questions about this product category as well as provide information on our top 5 picks for best performing products available today.

Clorox Clean-Up CloroxPro Disinfectant Cleaner with Bleach Refill – the Editor’s choice!

This product is great for disinfecting your home or business – it is an all-in-one spray, clean, and deodorizer. It has everything you need to make any building fresh and sparkling with this powerful spray bleach cleaner by Clorox Clean-Up.

This all-in-one Clorox bleach spray cleans, disinfects, and deodorizes surfaces in high traffic areas including commercial kitchens, restroom facilities around the office campus or other business buildings.

The product features an EPA-registered formula that removes tough stains like oil/grease, cooking residue on oven racks, kills 99% of bacteria, and eliminates bad smells associated with yeast infections.

Great for use on all surfaces like carpets, sinks, toilets, counters, and even touch screens! This is the perfect product to fill your hours of cleaning with large amounts of happiness because look how easy it will be now that it’s done!

Pros

Pros

• Can cope with tough stains;
• Kills up to 99% of bacteria and viruses;
• Cleans almost any surface;
• Good for commercial use;
• Eliminates odors as well;

Cons

Cons

• Contains potentially hazardous bleach;
• The bottle may leak at the bottom;
• There is no safety seal;

The Clorox Clean-Up Disinfectant Cleaner with Bleach Spray is powerful enough to clean, disinfect and deodorize anything including aluminum siding.

Pine-Sol CloroxPro All Purpose Cleaner – the best for the scent!

Pine-Sol Concentrated Cleaner is a long-lasting solution to your toughest dirt and grime. With the power of Pine-Sol and a touch of lavender, the manufacturer has created one powerful formula that delivers 72 gallons of cleaning product to tackle any surface in and out of your home.

TFrom outdoor furniture and laundry hampers to appliances and toilets, clean surfaces with confidence knowing that Pine-Sols residue-free formula leaves behind nothing but a subtle scent! Clears tough dirt from stains from a variety of surfaces.

Pros

Pros

• Great lavender scent;
• Safe for cleaning indoor and outdoor surfaces;
• Concentrated formula;
• Good for home and professional use;
• Can eliminate most unpleasant odors;

Cons

Cons

• The nice scent quickly fades away;
• The package can be easily bent;
• Doesn’t disinfect;

With a lavender scent and a concentrated formula, Pine-Sol tackles those tough dirt, grease, and grime. Clean all of your home’s surfaces: kitchen countertops and appliances; showers and toilets; outdoor furniture and more! Even better, it is safe to use on almost any surface – so you can save time by tackling multiple tasks at once!

Diversey-CBD540557 Virex All-Purpose Cleaner – the best disinfectant!

Diversey-CBD540557 Virex All-Purpose Cleaner is a powerful chlorinated cleaner used for all hard surfaces and kills the organisms that cause odors. It prevents new odors from developing and serves great to help eliminate bad odor eliminator purposes.

The trusted and time-tested cleaner you need. It is powerful enough to sanitize hard, nonporous surfaces like floors, walls, and the rest of your facility. With its broad-spectrum kills, you can rest assured knowing with this product, organisms such as Herpes Simplex Virus Types 1&2, Influenza Type A2, Rotavirus will be eliminated!

Pros

Pros

• Disinfect almost all microorganisms;
• For use on hard and nonporous surfaces;
• Eliminate bad odors as well;
• Powerful formula;

Cons

Cons

• Won’t dry quickly;
• The bottle may leak;
• Won’t cope with tuberculosis microorganisms;

Diversity CBD540557 Virex All-Purpose Cleaner has been designed especially for use in hospitals, nursing homes, and other facilities with aluminum siding where there is a high risk of contamination.

Clorox 35419 Pine-Sol Lemon Fresh All-Purpose Cleaner – the best for the concentrated formula!

You’ll love this clean, fresh-scented Pine-Sol All-Purpose Cleaner. It’s safe on surfaces and can be diluted for heavy cleaning or used lightly for touch-ups with the “lemon scent”. This concentrated formula can be diluted to deliver 72 gallons of cleaning products for heavy cleaning or light cleanups!

Pine-Sol is an all-purpose cleaner that removes tough messes and leaves behind a long-lasting fragrance. Designed with bleach alternatives, it is safe for even your best surfaces, such as granite countertops and marble floors. It’s also environmentally friendly, so grab too many bottles now before they raise prices.

Pros

Pros

• Very concentrated formula;
• All-purpose cleaner;
• Safe to use on any surfaces;
• Good for commercial use outdoors and indoors;
• Can remove tough stains;

Cons

Cons

• The bottle is heavy;
• May leak;
• The protective seal is flimsy;

This cleaning liquid may get rid of dirt and messes with no problem, while still smelling fresh. It comes in a variety of scents that customers can choose from. From lavender to lemon new pine scent, this product will make any home smell great!

AL-NEW Aluminum Restoration Cleaning Solution Kit – the best for cleaning tough stains!

Al-new Aluminum Restoration Solutions Kits are designed to clean anodized aluminum, fiberglass surfaces impacted by heat and UV exposure. Take it outdoors for all of your outdoor metal finishes like patio furniture, garage doors, light fixtures, and more. Once dried AL-NEW leaves a coat of corrosion protection with gentle enough abrasives not to remove paint when used lightly.

It’s safe enough to use when cleaning the furniture outside in the yard but tough enough to tackle tougher jobs inside! With a gentle touch that won’t scrub paint away and a deep clean that removes chalky oxidation from painted aluminum, AL-NEW is your one-stop solution for all of your household metal surfaces.

Pros

Pros

• Can clean even the anodized aluminum;
• Will do for fiberglass surfaces affected by UV exposure and heat;
• Gives an extra coat of corrosion after drying;
• Gentle yet powerful effect;

Cons

Cons

• Won’t cope with oxidation;
• Not fully rainproof;
• Cast aluminum may get white spots;

Whether you’re restoring two light fixtures or cleaning shelves in the garage, this quick-drying Al-New liquid will do it all.

The Buyer’s Guide

Main Features:

1) Formula

Aluminum siding cleaners are available in a variety of forms. The different types include liquids, gels, granules, and sprays.  Each is effective, but there are pros and cons to each. 

Liquid cleaners tend to be very strong and can affect the color of aluminum siding if not used carefully. You need a cloth for this type of cleaner or you risk streaking your home’s exterior when applying it. Liquid cleaners also require more time because they have to dry completely before you can walk on them or go near the treated area again without risking damage from footprints left behind.

Gel-based cleaners work well on vertical surfaces like masonry and brick exteriors too since they don’t drip down under gravity’s influence as easily as liquid solutions do. They’re usually best applied with a mop so applying pressure doesn’t threaten any inadvertent smudges or smears.

Granules are a good choice for those who want to keep their aluminum siding looking as natural as possible. These cleaners leave no residue, so they’re safe to use on most exterior surfaces without causing damage from the cleaner itself or any chemical interaction that might occur between it and whatever surface you apply them to.  You can sprinkle these directly onto your home’s siding before sweeping them into place according to what works best for your house design and aesthetic preferences. Granule-based cleaners also work well in conjunction with other cleaners if you choose one of the multi-purpose formulations available today.

Spray cleaners contain chemicals similar to granular ones but come out in an aerosol mist instead of dry powder form. They’re useful for cleaning everything from dirt and grime to mildew, mold, lichen, algae, etc. Spray-on cleaners are also easy to apply with a garden hose or pressure washer if you want the job done quickly without any effort on your part once you mix up the solution in your spray bottle.

2. Scent

Aluminum siding cleaners have a variety of scents ranging from pine to lemon. When choosing the aluminum siding cleaner, you should consider your preferences on scent and be sure that it is not overbearing or unpleasant. Aluminum siding cleaners with strong scents can also affect people with sensitive skin so if this applies to you, consider purchasing an aluminum siding cleaner without a lot of added fragrances. 

The best aluminum siding cleaners will smell fresh and clean. The scent of the cleaner should not be too strong or too weak. You may want to purchase two different brands of aluminum siding cleaners with similar scents so that you can test both against each other on your home’s exterior. This way, you are able to choose the brand that is most pleasant while still removing dirt from your house exteriors.

3. Multi-surface compatibility

Many cleaners are only appropriate for certain types of siding, but some can be used on all kinds.  Multi-surface compatibility is important when choosing the best aluminum siding cleaner.

If you are looking for an easy way to clean your home without having to purchase specialty cleaners, look no further than these products that can be used on a variety of surfaces including vinyl and steel.

4. Eco-friendly formula

Eco-friendly aluminum siding cleaners are made to be gentle on the environment. The cleaning products have no or low toxicity levels, are non-flammable and biodegradable for safe usage around pets and children. 

Many people overlook it, but certified green cleaners are important. It’s a good idea to verify that the person cleaning your house is eco-friendly. If you’re the boss and the cleaner is unsafe, it might be detrimental to your family and pet’s health.

5. Brand

There are many brands of aluminum siding cleaners, and you can find them at most hardware stores. 

A few common ones include:

• Zep;
• Clorox;
• Diversey;
• Kleen Strip;
• Wurth;
• Krud Kutter;

You can look into if none of these fit your personal preferences several other brands. Some people use generic cleaners, but it is generally recommended that you stick with brand-name products because they have been tested in various conditions to ensure their effectiveness and safety for the material.

6. Ease of use

Aluminum siding cleaners are designed to be easy to use. They usually come in spray bottles, which makes them great for spot cleaning or weekly treatments on the exterior of your house. You can also find aluminum siding cleaners that you apply with a mop or sponge, making it even easier to clean larger areas quickly.  

Other things to consider when buying aluminum siding cleaners:

1) Price

Make sure you’re getting a good deal. Compare prices at several stores and don’t overpay for aluminum siding cleaners just because the price is convenient. Check out customer reviews to make sure the product has minimal negative feedback before buying it; otherwise, save yourself some time and money by going with another option on this list of the best aluminum siding cleaners!

2) Quantity

When searching for high-quality home cleaning products like an aluminum siding cleaner, always consider quantity as well. If you think that one bottle will last long enough, then go ahead with your purchase or buy more than one if necessary (if not available in bulk). Make sure each bottle contains a sufficient amount of solution so there’s no need to constantly reapply to clean aluminum siding.

Some people like purchasing a big bottle of an aluminum siding cleaner while others prefer smaller, more convenient bottles that are easier to hold and pour out onto cleaning surfaces. The size is completely up to you but keep in mind how many solutions it holds so there’s no need for frequent refills or reapplication after each use! 

For example, if you want something with huge capacity (like a bulk purchase), go ahead and buy this one on our list of best aluminum siding cleaners; otherwise, choose another option that may be better suited to your lifestyle habits. It should also have high-quality ingredients at affordable prices along with great customer reviews!

How to Use an Aluminum Siding Cleaner?

If you are using an aluminum siding cleaner for the first time, make sure to follow the instructions on its label. 

However, there are also general guidelines that can help you understand how it works and what your best options are:

• Always check if a product is compatible with paint or coating before applying any chemical to avoid discoloration or other damage;
• For cleaning purposes only use products made of alkaline chemicals as they work better against rust stains compared to acidic ones which should be used for metal restoration instead;
• Make sure not to apply too much pressure when working with strong cleaners because this may take off existing paint layers leading to more costly repairs in the future. If possible choose gentler without abrasives so you don’t scratch the surface and can remove rust stains without much effort;
• If you’re using a machine power washer, use one that is not more than 1500 PSI in pressure to avoid damage or peeling of paint layers;

The best aluminum siding cleaners will make your home look brand new again while protecting its value instead of hurting it so choose wisely when shopping for such products online or at your local hardware store!

Siding Cleaning Tips:

1. Aluminum siding cleaners should be mild and non-toxic. Look for ingredients that are natural, including plant extracts or essential oils as opposed to harsh chemicals. If you need a really tough cleaning job, ask the manufacturer if they have a product specifically made for those types of jobs;
2. The cleaner must not leave streaks on aluminum surfaces so choose carefully. Also, watch out for products that will damage your paint or coating – check online reviews first before buying to see what real customers say about it;
3. Avoid abrasive cleaners at all costs since these can scratch your windows and cause permanent damage! Scrubby sponges used with strong alkaline solutions is one example but even vinegar has an acidity level that’s too high for this job;
4. A separate aluminum siding washer is needed if you want to avoid cleaning chemicals or just for convenience purposes. Use a long-handled attachment that will allow you to reach the top of your home without having to use ladders, chairs, etc.;
5. If possible, wait until an overcast day when there’s no direct sunlight on your windows since these can cause streaks when combined with cleaners and water droplets from rinsing off the surface. Of course, this isn’t always feasible but it helps reduce visible damage in case something goes wrong during the washing/rinsing process (i.e., too much cleaner used);
6. It doesn’t matter what kind of soap you choose – liquid dish detergent, bar soap, dishwasher detergent – as long as it’s mild and free of abrasives then you’re good to go;

Aftercare

If some of the stains have not come off completely, or if rust has formed on metal siding after you used a cleaning product, try using a mild abrasive. For example, baking soda can be effective in removing light dirt and rust from metal surfaces without scratching them – just mix water with it to create a paste that gets rid of any residue left behind by your cleaner. 

If this does not work as well as expected, go for aluminum cleaners specifically designed for use after paint strippers or household cleansers – these will cut through even heavy deposits without damaging the metal beneath them.

Comparison of Indicators for Choosing Aluminum Siding Cleaners

Choosing the right aluminum siding cleaner is crucial for maintaining the appearance and longevity of your siding. This table presents a comparison of key indicators to consider when selecting an aluminum siding cleaner. The indicators listed below will help you make an informed decision based on factors such as effectiveness, safety, ease of use, and environmental impact.

Explanation to the table:

1. Effectiveness: This indicator assesses the cleaner’s ability to effectively remove dirt, grime, stains, and oxidation from aluminum siding. A high level of effectiveness ensures thorough cleaning.
2. Safety: Safety refers to the potential harm the cleaner may cause to humans, pets, and the environment. It is desirable to choose a cleaner with a low safety risk to avoid any negative health or environmental impacts.
3. Ease of Use: This indicator evaluates the simplicity and convenience of applying and rinsing off the cleaner. A high ease of use ensures a hassle-free cleaning process.
4. Compatibility: Compatibility determines the cleaner’s effectiveness on various types of aluminum siding. It is important to choose a cleaner that works well with different siding materials.
5. Versatility: Versatility refers to the cleaner’s ability to be used on surfaces other than aluminum siding, such as vinyl or wood. A cleaner with broader application options can be beneficial for multi-surface cleaning tasks.
6. Environmental Impact: This indicator considers the ecological consequences of using the cleaner, including its biodegradability. A cleaner with a low environmental impact is more sustainable and eco-friendly.

FAQ

How often should you clean aluminum siding?

Aluminum siding that is maintained and cleaned on a regular basis can last for decades. You’ll want to consider your geographical location, as it will determine how often you need to clean aluminum siding. 

For instance, if you live in an area with heavy pollution or high foot traffic from animals such as dogs or cats, then you may wish to have the aluminum siding on your home scrubbed every six months.  If you live in a climate with mild weather, then aluminum siding can go up to one year between cleanings.  

You’ll want to wash your home on a regular basis at least once per month using any kind of aluminum siding cleaner. If you notice water damage, mold growth, or algae, then clean it more frequently to remove the problem before further issues arise.

How to prepare aluminum siding for painting?

Aluminum siding is a great choice for those looking to replace their home’s exterior. Not only does it look good, but it can last as long as 20 years or more! 

Aluminum siding comes in sheets that are attached via screws and brackets. The first step when painting your aluminum siding is removing the old paint with sandpaper and scraping off any peeling areas of paint. 

It’s best if you clean down the entire surface before applying primer so no dirt remains on top of the new coatings after application – this will help ensure complete coverage without streaks or spots not getting painted at all! You should also be aware that brickwork requires both an undercoat and overcoat (if done by hand) due to its porous nature – this means that your paint job will be more expensive.

While you can certainly do it yourself, if time is a concern and the siding needs a lot of work to get clean – hiring someone else to strip off old layers and apply new ones might be easier.

How do you remove oxidation from aluminum siding?

There are very few cleaners that can help you remove oxidation from aluminum siding. You will need to use the right cleaner for the job; otherwise, your cleaning efforts could damage your siding surface or corrode it faster. 

You will need to find cleaners that are specifically made for aluminum siding. If you have any stains, use a cleaner with mild abrasives so it can break down the stain without scratching your surface. You should start by just cleaning an area of about one square foot at first then check how clean or stained it is after drying completely.

Work from top to bottom and remove as much dirt before using the cleaner on large sections of the siding. Make sure not to soak your entire section all in one go because this could damage porous surfaces like wood sidings if water accumulates inside them which leads to rot and mold growths over time.

How do you prevent flash rust after cleaning your aluminum siding walls?

Flash rust occurs when there are streaks of water that remain on the siding after washing it. To prevent this, make sure to dry your walls completely with a soft towel or squeegee. Also, try to wash in the early morning before the sun hits the house so that you are not dealing with moisture too long throughout the day.

How do you prevent mildew on siding?

The above-mentioned cleaners also help prevent mold and algae from developing in damp areas, with most containing fungicides that inhibit the growth of fungi spores or other microorganisms. These cleaners can be used on all types of siding, and you only need to clean the surface once a year or as needed.

How do you remove stains from aluminum siding?

Aluminum siding stains can be difficult to remove, but there are several easy steps that you can take when cleaning your aluminum siding. For example, scrubbing the stained area with a stiff-bristled brush and mixing together dish soap, bleach, and hot water in equal parts will produce an effective solution for removing the most common types of dirt from your aluminum siding.

Alternatively, using commercially available cleaners specifically designed for use on aluminum surfaces is also likely to yield good results if paired with regular washing or gentle scrubbing with a soft bristle brush.

How do you make the aluminum siding look new?

When the aluminum siding is starting to look a bit faded and chalky, it’s time for some house cleaning. Cleaning your home or building can be one of the most important steps in making sure that you not only give it a fresh new appearance but also maintain its original beauty and value over time.

Aluminum siding is made to be easily washed with the right cleaning product. If you have never cleaned aluminum siding before, it’s important that you treat the material carefully and use a cleaner designed for your specific type of siding surface. Aluminum has some unique qualities that need to be taken into consideration when deciding on an overall clean-up strategy.

Is it cheaper to paint aluminum siding or replace it?

The aluminum siding can wear out from corrosion, rust, or even damage due to hail. That is when you should consider replacement rather than painting it. In case of paint peeling and other problems with the appearance, a good pressure washing may bring the color back but at least two coats will be needed before going ahead with painting. 

Replacing the siding is a good option but it costs much. It can be cheaper to paint if you do not have any experience in this area or access to power washing equipment and so on. The best aluminum siding cleaners mentioned below will provide all you need for a neat job without breaking your budget.

Why does the aluminum siding turn green?

Aluminum turns green when it meets moisture. If you live near the ocean, your house is more likely to turn green because of high humidity and saltwater. The minerals that are already in the soil can also cause the aluminum siding to change colors. 

Keep in mind that these problems will be worse if you frequently clean your home’s siding without using a protective layer between the cleaning solution and metal surface.

How do you brighten aluminum siding?

There are a couple of ways to brighten aluminum siding. One way is by using a quality cleaner, which can work wonders on dull or dirty surfaces. Some cleaners even come with slightly abrasive scrubbers that will help target tough stains and dirt spots for removal from the surface. 

Another option is to use a power washer. This type of machine uses pressured water and works very quickly as it blasts away any dirt, grime, or algae from the surface. However, some types of aluminum siding cannot withstand such pressure without getting damaged so be sure that yours can tolerate this method before attempting it on your own at home. For those who do not want to invest in expensive equipment like these, there are also manual options for brightening up dull-looking aluminum siding surfaces. 

These include using an all-purpose cleaner (with scrubbers), steel wool pads, and various other abrasive materials that will help you scrub stubborn stains right off the material’s exterior. Some homeowners even take their cleaning efforts one step further by sanding down the surface of their siding before applying a fresh coat of protective paint.

What is the lifespan of aluminum siding?

Aluminum siding has an average lifespan of around 30 years, but it varies with the quality and materials used to make an aluminum siding.

Can you use TSP to clean aluminum siding?

TSP is a cleaning agent that you can use for many different types of surfaces, including aluminum siding. While TSP itself does not contain any abrasive elements like sand or granules, it should still be used with caution as the harsh chemicals in this compound may damage your siding surface over time if they are frequently exposed to it.

If you decide that using an acidic cleaner on your siding is best for removing dirt and grime buildup due to its ability to break down minerals without destroying metal surfaces, consider testing out vinegar first before opting for more powerful cleaners.

What are the best cleaners for aluminum siding?

There are several effective cleaners for aluminum siding. Some popular options include:

• Aluminum siding cleaner solutions available in the market
• Mild dish soap mixed with water
• Vinegar diluted with water
• Baking soda paste

These cleaners can help remove dirt, grime, and stains from your aluminum siding.

Can I use a pressure washer to clean aluminum siding?

Yes, you can use a pressure washer to clean aluminum siding, but you need to be cautious. Set the pressure to a low or medium setting to avoid damaging the siding. Keep the nozzle at a proper distance, usually around 10-12 inches away from the surface. Additionally, make sure to use a wide-angle spray pattern to minimize the risk of denting or denting the siding.

Are there any eco-friendly options for cleaning aluminum siding?

Absolutely! If you prefer eco-friendly options, consider using natural cleaners like vinegar or baking soda. These substances are non-toxic and environmentally friendly. You can create a solution of equal parts vinegar and water or make a paste with baking soda and water to clean your aluminum siding. They are effective in removing dirt and stains while being gentle on the environment.

Can I use bleach to clean aluminum siding?

No, it is not recommended to use bleach to clean aluminum siding. Bleach can corrode the aluminum and cause discoloration or damage to the surface. It’s best to stick to safer cleaning options such as aluminum siding cleaners, mild dish soap, vinegar, or baking soda.

Should I scrub the siding with a brush or sponge?

Using a brush or sponge can be beneficial for stubborn stains or areas that require extra attention. However, avoid using abrasive brushes or scrubbers that can scratch or damage the aluminum siding. Opt for soft-bristle brushes or non-abrasive sponges to gently scrub the surface and remove dirt effectively.

Do I need to rinse off the cleaner after cleaning the aluminum siding?

Yes, it is important to thoroughly rinse off the cleaner after cleaning the aluminum siding. Leaving the cleaner on the surface can cause residue buildup or leave streaks. Use a garden hose or a pressure washer on a low setting to rinse off the siding. Ensure that all the cleaning solution is completely removed for a clean and streak-free finish.

Can I use a power washer to remove stubborn stains on aluminum siding?

While a power washer can be effective in removing stubborn stains, caution is necessary. Use a lower pressure setting and keep the nozzle at a safe distance to avoid causing damage to the siding. Always test a small inconspicuous area first to ensure that the pressure washer doesn’t dent or dent the aluminum surface.

Are there any precautions I should take while cleaning aluminum siding?

Yes, there are a few precautions to keep in mind when cleaning aluminum siding:

• Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrub brushes that can scratch the surface.
• Protect your hands by wearing gloves and consider wearing safety goggles.
• Be cautious of electrical components like light fixtures or outlets and avoid getting water or cleaner inside them.
• If using a ladder, make sure it is stable and positioned correctly to ensure your safety.

By taking these precautions, you can clean your aluminum siding effectively and safely.

Useful Video: How to Wash Aluminum Siding

Final thoughts

With so many options of aluminum cleaners available, it can be hard to find the best one for your needs. The guide the experts have provided should help you make an informed decision on what product is right for you and your home. Hopefully, this information has been helpful in assisting with finding a cleaner that will work well for your specific needs!