Nothing torpedoes your home’s curb appeal like dirty siding. Thankfully, most siding can be easily cleaned. Here’s how to get your grimy siding looking good as new.

Step One: Get the right cleaning supplies

Most siding can be cleaned with nothing more than soap & water, though tougher stains might require the use of nonabrasive cleaners. The key is to use only what is recommended for your siding. For mildew stained vinyl, use ammonia-based cleaners or a solution composed of one part bleach and four parts water.

Step Two: Get scrubbing

While you want to get your siding clean, you don’t want to scratch it up. Apply the cleaning solution with a soft-bristled brush, working from the bottom up. Use a nylon-scrubbing pad for stubborn stains.

Step Three: Rinse and relax

Now comes the fun part. While the siding is still wet with cleaning solution, grab a hose and rinse off the siding. Sound too easy? That’s because it is. Just make sure you rinse thoroughly.