Give compatible composite decking a gentle soap-and-water clean.

Leaves and everyday dirt can hide the appearance of a composite deck. Many current Trex product lines allow a simple soap-and-water cleaning, but older products and other brands can have different requirements. Identify your decking and read its care guide before starting. Keep this task to accessible surface cleaning.

What you’ll need

• Decking care guide
• Soft broom
• Garden hose
• Bucket of warm water
• Soap approved by the decking manufacturer
• Soft-bristle brush
• Shoes with good traction

Take it step by step

1. Choose a mild day and keep children and pets away from the wet work area. Inspect the walking surface first and move lightweight items without dragging their feet across the boards.
2. Sweep leaves and loose grit. Remove accessible debris gently; do not pry between boards, loosen fasteners, or disassemble railing parts.
3. Check the care guide and soap label for compatibility. Test a small hidden area if required, and protect nearby surfaces from runoff.
4. Wet a small section with the hose. Apply the approved soapy water and gently brush each board, including its surface pattern, using a soft-bristle brush.
5. Rinse the section thoroughly before dirty water dries on it. Continue in manageable sections instead of spreading soap over the entire deck at once.
6. Let the surface dry before returning furniture or allowing normal use. Put items back carefully and make a note of any stains that need product-specific advice.

When to ask for help

Stop and request professional inspection if boards feel soft or loose, the deck moves, railings are unstable, or you see exposed sharp fasteners. For persistent stains, ask the decking manufacturer for an approved method before trying a strong chemical.