Recipe For Washing Mildewed House Surfaces
All traces of mildew must be removed before painting a house. Mildew is most often found on carport ceilings, the underside of awnings, soffits and porch ceilings.
Scrub mildewed surfaces with a brush and this solution of cleaner:
1 quart liquid chlorine bleach
1/3 cup powdered laundry detergent
2/3 cup of a strong household cleaner containing trisodium phosphate
3 quarts warm water
Care should be taken to ensure that you do not inadvertently mix ammonia with the chlorine bleach as harmful fumes result. Rinse well with clean water and allow to dry thoroughly. Paint as soon as possible.
This cleaning solution is strong. Shrubs and grass may be covered with plastic sheets to avoid damage. You should wear rubber gloves to prevent skin irritation and avoid splashing the solution in your eyes.
An alternate method of application is the use of a garden sprayer to apply the solution; a long handle brush for scrubbing; and rinse with the full force of water stream from a garden hose.
Debbie Wilburn is County Agent/Family and Consumer Science Agent with the Hall (770)535-8290 and the Forsyth (770)887-2418 County Extension Service.
Monday
August 4th, 2025
12:06AM
