How to Remove Corn Stove Soot from Vinyl Siding

There are a few commercial products designed to remove soot, but for a simple at-home solution that won’t hurt your wallet, give this method a try.  It’s a great all purpose solution for vinyl siding with enough kick to get rid of hard-to-remove dirt like soot and grime.

• Broom
• Soft bristled, long handled brush
• Powdered detergent
• Spic and Span household cleaner (or similar)
• Bucket
• Garden hose with running water
• Ladder (as needed)
• Plastic tarp (optional)

1. Begin by protecting plants and shrubbery with the plastic tarp. This will prevent the soapy mixture from damaging any landscaping.
2. Sweep the siding with a stiff broom or brush to remove as much of the loose soot as possible.
3. Mix a solution of 1/3 cup powdered detergent, 2/3 cup household cleaner and one gallon of water.
4. Use the brush to apply the cleaning solution to the siding, working from the bottom up to reduce streaking.
5. Work in small sections so you can rinse frequently.
6. As soon as you are finished, and before the siding has a chance to dry, rinse it thoroughly with the garden hose.

• If you can find the type of washing brush designed to attach to a garden hose, it will make your job easier.  If not, a bucket and a regular brush works just fine.
• Whenever possible, clean siding on a cool, cloudy day.  Heat and sunlight will make drying time faster, giving the cleaning solution less time to work.
• Use rubber gloves and eye protection if you will be working over your head or have sensitive skin.
• If soot build up is a common problem, clean it at least every three months to keep the stains at bay.
• Though it may be tempting to increase the concentration of the cleaner, this is not advisable. The stronger concentrations can damage the siding.