Mr Softwash®
"Voted Soft Washing Company of the year 2024/25 & 26"
Mr Softwash®
The Science Behind
Soft washing
in Poole, Bournemouth, Dorset, Hants & Wilts.
Mr Softwash Ltd is one of the most experienced
Soft washing companies in the UK.
The Science Behind Soft washing
Why Soft washing is More Than Just Cleaning’, is provided by Mr Softwash Ltd, who offer professional softwashing services. We are committed to advancing the field of softwashing through continuous innovation and reliable customer service.
Introduction
Softwashing is advancing exterior cleaning by offering a safer, and potentially more effective alternative to pressure washing. This method not only cleans surfaces but also eliminates organic growth at the root, preventing rapid regrowth. Unlike traditional pressure washing, which relies on force to remove dirt and biological growth, softwashing utilizes specially formulated cleaning agents that break down contaminants at a molecular level.
The effectiveness of softwashing is based on science—specifically, the chemistry of cleaning agents, the role of surfactants, and the correct application techniques. By understanding how these elements work together, professionals can achieve long-lasting, environmentally responsible results without damaging delicate surfaces.
In this article, we’ll explore the key scientific principles behind softwashing, including the chemistry of its cleaning agents, its best application practices, and important environmental and safety considerations.
The Chemistry of Softwashing
The primary reason softwashing is an effective alternative to pressure washing lies in the chemistry behind its cleaning solutions.
The Role of Sodium Hypochlorite (NaOCl)
- The active ingredient in most softwashing solutions is sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), a powerful oxidizing agent. It effectively eliminates organic matter such as:
Algae – The green or black discoloration commonly seen on roofs, patios, and render. - Mold and Mildew – Fungi that thrive in damp conditions, particularly on shaded walls and decking.
- Lichen and Moss – More stubborn growths that attach deeply to porous surfaces like stone and concrete.
How Sodium Hypochlorite Works
When applied to a contaminated surface, sodium hypochlorite breaks down organic material at the cellular level. It disrupts the biological processes of algae and fungi, killing them at the root rather than just removing their surface layer (as pressure washing does).
Once the organic matter is broken down, a low-pressure rinse removes the debris, leaving a cleaner and longer-lasting finish. Because the spores and root systems of contaminants are eliminated, surfaces remain cleaner for months or even years without the need for frequent re-treatment.
The Role of Surfactants in Softwashing
Surfactants are another crucial component in softwashing solutions. These compounds lower water’s surface tension, allowing the cleaning agents to:
- Adhere to surfaces longer – This prevents the solution from running off too quickly.
- Penetrate porous materials – This ensures deep cleaning rather than just surface-level removal.
- Break down stubborn grime and oils – Making it easier to rinse away.
Surfactants are often used to help softwashing solutions spread more effectively over surfaces, particularly on vertical structures like walls and roofs. By improving adhesion, surfactants ensure that the cleaning agents stay in place long enough to fully break down organic contaminants.
Application Techniques and Best Practices
Softwashing requires a very different approach compared to pressure washing. High-pressure jets can cause damage to surfaces, particularly on delicate materials like:
- Render and stucco – Can erode or crack under high pressure.
- Roof tiles and shingles – Can be dislodged or have their protective coatings stripped away.
- Wood and composite materials – May splinter, warp, or suffer water damage.
Softwashing eliminates these risks by using low-pressure spray systems that gently apply the cleaning solution.
The Importance of Dwell Time
One of the most important factors in successful softwashing is the dwell time—the amount of time the cleaning solution remains on the surface before rinsing.
Dwell time varies depending on the surface and contamination level:
- Light organic staining: 10–15 minutes.
- Moderate algae or mold growth: 20–30 minutes.
- Heavy lichen and black spot removal: 45–60 minutes.
Allowing the solution to dwell properly ensures that contaminants are fully broken down rather than just partially removed. However, it’s important not to let the solution dry on the surface, as this can leave streaks or cause uneven cleaning.
Rinsing and Post-Cleaning Treatments
Once the dwell time is complete, the surface is rinsed with low-pressure water. This removes the broken-down contaminants while protecting the surface from damage.
To extend the longevity of the clean, many professionals apply a biocide after softwashing. Biocides such as DDAC (Didecyldimethylammonium Chloride) can prevent regrowth of algae, mold, and moss for up to a year or longer.
Conclusion
Softwashing is more than just an exterior cleaning method—it is a science-based approach that ensures long-lasting, deep-cleaning results while protecting delicate surfaces. By understanding the chemistry of sodium hypochlorite, the role of surfactants, and the importance of proper application techniques, professionals can deliver cleaning services safely and effectively.
More than just removing dirt, softwashing prevents regrowth, reduces the need for frequent maintenance, and provides a sustainable, environmentally friendly solution for exterior cleaning.
As more professionals embrace the scientific principles behind softwashing, the industry continues to shift toward a safer, smarter, and more effective cleaning standard.
Render Soft Washing
Benefits of Softwashing for Render
Protects delicate render:
Modern render surfaces are porous and can be easily damaged by the force of high-pressure cleaning. Softwashing uses gentle chemicals and low pressure to prevent surface damage.
Effective biological control:
The chemical solutions kill algae, moss, and other organic growth at their root, preventing them from returning.
Restores original colour:
Softwashing cleans the render, restoring its natural colour and preventing future staining.
"The safer way to wash your home
& the results can last up to 3-4 times longer"
Soft Washing was developed in the USA about 20 years ago and was a way of washing property without the risks associated with using high pressure as in pressure washing. Soft washing is a cleaning process that safely removes organic stains, mildew, and algae from render using a low-pressure washing technique and a mixture of biocides or sodium hypochlorite, surfactants, and water. High pressure damages render, roofs and other surfaces, so Low pressure is used to prevent any damage.
Soft washing or low pressure is used on surfaces that are difficult to clean with pressure washing or might be damaged by high pressure. It's gentle on surfaces, making it ideal for delicate materials.
Soft washing is different from power washing, which uses higher water pressure. Power washing can void a warranty, cause granule loss, and compromise the integrity of roof tiles, damage rendering, patios and other surfaces.
What is the distinction between
Soft Washing and Pressure Washing?
Although the procedures, equipment, pressure, and chemicals used in soft washing, power washing, and pressure washing appear to be identical, they are not. Power washing and pressure washing require much higher water pressure than soft washing, and power washing is usually done with high pressure. To kill mould, mildew, bacteria, algae, fungus, moss, and other bacteria, the Soft Washing method is paired with a biodegradable sanitizing cleaning solution.
This biowash will continue to prevent further organic growth for about 3-5 years.
If your looking for professional soft washing in Poole and the wider Dorset, Hants, Wilts area please contact me for a free no obligation quote.
"Soft washing is the future of Property cleaning"
What can be softwashed?
Because of its gentle approach, softwashing is suitable for a wide range of surfaces that could be damaged by high-pressure cleaning. These include:
- Roofs: Shingles, tiles, and slate.
- Walls: Render, stucco, painted wood, and brick.
- Cladding: Vinyl, composite, and wood.
- Patios and decks: Wood, composite, and natural stone.
- Fascias and gutters: uPVC and other materials.
- Other surfaces: Fences, driveways, and windows.
A maintenance programme of soft washing is the safer and cheaper way to maintain your property's appearance.
Driveway Soft Washing
Benefits of soft washing driveways:
Prevents Surface Damage:
Unlike aggressive pressure washing, soft washing uses low pressure and gentle chemicals, protecting delicate surfaces like tarmac or resin from damage and erosion.
Eliminates Organic Growth:
The biodegradable cleaning solutions are specifically designed to kill mold, algae, moss, and lichens at their source, not just their visible surface.
Longer-Lasting Results:
The biocides in the solution have a residual effect, preventing organic growth from returning for a longer period, sometimes 3-5 years, compared to a pressure wash.
Boosts Property Value:
A clean, well-maintained driveway enhances your home's curb appeal and preserves its overall value.
Enhances Safety:
Removing slippery moss, algae, and other organic growth makes the driveway safer to walk or drive on.
Deeper, More Thorough Clean:
Soft washing reaches deep into the pores of the driveway material to eliminate underlying issues, providing a truly sanitized surface.
Environmentally Friendly:
The biodegradable chemicals used are safer for your plants and the environment compared to harsh chemicals.
Render
Soft Washing
Softwash Roof
Cleaning
Driveway & Patio Cleaning
Guarantee
✅ Reasonably Priced - I've always believed in delivering a top-tier service at a genuinely fair price, and I'm really proud to say that over 80% of people accept my quotes.
✅ Reliability - We've heard the stories, most people simply don't turn up. Reliability is a big thing for me, so you can expect me to arrive exactly when promised (as it should be!)
✅ Happy & Approachable – I'm here to make your experience as pleasant and enjoyable as your newly cleaned render, driveway or patio, so expect professionalism with a smile 😊
✅ Zero Mess - I promise to treat your home with complete respect, and ensure that the only thing I leave behind is a sparkling clean!
✅ No Hidden Costs, Ever. - I believe in upfront, honest pricing. This means the price I quote is the price you pay. No hidden or unexpected charges, ever
100% Satisfaction Guarantee
Hiring a professional should come with confidence, not feel like a gamble. That's why I have my 100% satisfaction guarantee, for your complete peace of mind that you have come to the right place.
I stand by my service so much that you pay nothing until your 100% happy with the results.
It's my way of ensuring you get precisely what you're looking for, and more. 100%, completely risk-free.
Mr Softwash
Why Choose Me?
⭐️ Professional
⭐️ Full back up & ongoing support
⭐️ Good communication
⭐️ Trained to use high pressure & soft washing equipment
⭐️ Trained to use chemicals
⭐️ Highly experienced
⭐️ £5 million liability insurance
⭐️ Full written quotes
⭐️ Trusted & reliable Ltd company
5 ⭐️ Reviews
Please contact me to discuss your requirements or request
a quote for any pressure washing or soft washing job.
All enquiries welcome
Contact Steve today
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Soft Washing - Pressure Washing - Jet Washing - Driveway cleaning - Patio cleaning - Render cleaning - Driveway & patio sealing - Roof cleaning - Brickwork cleaning - Stonework cleaning - Decking cleaning - Cladding cleaning - Gutter cleaning - Block paving cleaning - Window cleaning - Fascias & soffits cleaning - Biowash treatments - Caravan cleaning - Boat cleaning - Swimming pool cleaning - Tennis court cleaning - Artificial grass cleaning - Car park & forecourt cleaning - Paint, oil & graffiti removal - Solar panel cleaning - Vehicle cleaning
Areas Covered
All BH & DT Postcodes - Dorset - West Hampshire - South Wiltshire
What my customers say
I cannot recommend Steve at Mr Softwash Ltd highly enough. A very professional job done on our patio - paving slabs which hadn’t been cleaned for 4-5 years! They now look amazing and no mess left. My request for a quote was responded to quickly and he turned up at the date and time he said he would. Very happy customer 😊
Steve has soft washed my house and it was an excellent job. He's just come back and jet washed the driveway and resanded it and has done yet another excellent job. I highly recommend his work.
I can totally recommend Steve. We had our blocked drive and patio cleaned.Both came up as new.
Steve is prompt , efficient and takes pride in his work. Steve keeps you informed on everything he is doing and why.
It’s lovely to get such good service.
Excellent workmanship, highly recommend. Did front drive and large patio at rear, totally satisfied with all that was done. Thankyou Margaret
5 star service!
We got in touch with Steve after an accident with a large pot of green fence paint that exploded all over our block paved driveway! Steve was brilliant from start to finish, he cleaned our driveway, path at the front of our property and our Indian sandstone patio in the garden and has done a top job! All 3 areas look brand new, the paint has completely gone and its transformed the outside of our little house. Can’t rate Steve’s service highly enough. Professional, friendly and he’s done a brilliant job. Thank you!
I've just had my block paved Driveway cleaned and resanded by Steve at Mr Softwash Ltd...and I am chuffed to bits with it! It was in a right sorry state after a Massive Water leak restoration by Insurance builders, it had mould,Moss, water stains, builders rubble, tile grout, concrete you name it, it was on there!..and Now after he worked his magic, looks like it was laid yesterday. Pristine and all the colours are back and refreshed.
Steve was prompt, his work was clean and efficient, and he told me at every stage from estimate, to end of job why and how he was going to do job. I am extremely Happy with the Work carried out and would recommend this company to anyone!!
Thank you Mr Softwash Ltd!
Steve came this morning to clean my patio,he has done an amazing job. My patio has never looked so clean. Absolute professional and very reasonable prices.
Thank you Steve fantastic job.
Steve was friendly and efficient, doing a great job for us. He was also kind enough to look at some extra bits for me while he was here. Would recommend!
Positive
Responsiveness, Quality, Professionalism
Mr Softwash Ltd have recently pressure washed a patio, fascias and soffits for me, and the results are excellent.
Thank you Steve for the superb work you've just completed on our expansive block paving driveway. It's a number of years since we saw the true colour of the bricks, now completely transformed and looking great. For anyone considering this type of work, we chose Steve because of the excellent reviews we'd read, and we like to support local business. We are delighted that we did. From Steve's prompt responses to our initial enquiry to his steady hard work on the cleaning, and completion today with the sanding, we could not be more pleased to give Steve a 5 star recommendation.
Darrell Merrell
Steve has done a wonderful job cleaning the algae from the render on our chimney and corners of the house so that it looks like new again. Clear and easy communication, very nice to deal with. Here are some before and after photos
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Soft Washing Company of the year