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If your decking and fences look like they've survived a battle with weather, algae, and stubborn mildew, you're not alone — and a good cleaner can rescue them. Choosing the right deck and fence cleaner makes the difference between a quick fix and long-lasting restoration. Think of cleaners as fuel for a makeover: the right formula breathes life back into weathered wood and composite boards, while the wrong choice can be like pouring water on a fire. This guide helps you find the best cleaners in the UK, tells you where to buy them, and explains how to use them safely for results that last.
At its core, a deck and fence cleaner breaks down organic stains, moss, algae, mildew, and surface grime so you can either leave the wood natural or prepare it for staining or sealing. Some cleaners are oxygen-based and gentle, acting like a deep shampoo for wood, while others are stronger—bleach or acid-based—meant for heavy duty rescues. Knowing the difference helps you pick the right product for a delicate cedar fence or a rugged pine deck.
There are plenty of places to shop in the UK, from big-box DIY chains to specialist online retailers. Each one has pros and cons depending on price, product range, and expert advice. Below I list reputable stores where you’ll often find a wide range of cleaning products and helpful staff to guide you.
B&Q stocks a solid selection of wood and composite cleaners from brands like Ronseal and Cuprinol. You’ll find oxygen cleansers, stain removers, and stain-and-seal combos. It’s a good first stop if you want to compare bottles in person and pick up tools like stiff brushes and deck stain applicators at the same time.
Wickes is another excellent high-street option, especially if you’re working on a larger area. They cater to tradespeople, so bulk sizes and stronger formulations are commonly available. Wickes often lists coverage estimates in square feet per litre, but when converting to imperial for planning, expect roughly 100–200 square feet per gallon depending on wood porosity.
Homebase balances budget-friendly ranges and branded products. It’s a reliable spot for middle-of-the-road cleaners that are effective without being overly harsh. Homebase also tends to stock eco-friendlier lines for gardeners who worry about nearby plants or lawn damage.
If you’re looking for trade supplies and quick availability, Screwfix is a go-to. They stock strong cleaners, degreasers, and specialist wood brighteners. You can also grab accessories like pressure washer nozzles and hose attachments in the same trip.
Toolstation is ideal if you’re pairing cleaners with hardware like scrapers, stiff brushes, or replacement decking screws. Their ranges are aimed at those who know what they want and want to get the job done efficiently.
Amazon offers many brands and sizes, often with customer reviews that tell you how the cleaner performs in real gardens. You can compare branded options like Owatrol, Wet & Forget, HG, and Jeyes, and sometimes find specialty formulas you won’t spot on the high street.
Wilko is useful for low-cost, everyday cleaners and basic tools. Independent garden centres often stock eco-friendly or specialist products and can be a great place to get tailored advice for local conditions—especially if your area sees lots of shade or dampness.
Brands make a difference. Here are names that keep coming up for cleaning power, reliability, and availability in UK stores:
- Ronseal: Known for stain and protection combos. Good for prepping wood for staining. - Cuprinol: Popular, easy-to-find, and effective on weathered wood. - Jeyes: Strong cleaners, especially for heavy moss and algae. - Wet & Forget: Loved for low-effort, spray-and-wait cleaning that’s gentle on plants. - Owatrol: Specialist product often used to restore tired decking and improve adhesion for coatings. - HG: Offers targeted wood brighteners and mold removers for tricky stains.
Choosing the right product depends on three things: the material (softwood, hardwood, composite), the level of contamination, and what you plan to do afterwards (stain, seal, or paint). Ask yourself: is the wood just dirty, or is it stained green with algae? For light dirt, an oxygen-based cleaner is gentle and usually safe for nearby plants. For deep-set mildew or old finishes, you might need a stronger chemical or a two-step process—cleaner then brightener—before refinishing.
Composite decking needs different care than natural timber. Composites can usually be cleaned with milder detergents and a soft brush, while natural timber benefits from wood brighteners after cleaning to restore natural grain and colour.
If your deck or fence sits above flower beds or a lawn, prioritise eco-friendly or plant-safe formulas. Some cleaners require dilution and rinsing; always follow label advice to protect plants and pets.
DIY cleaners using washing soda or diluted bleach are tempting because they’re cheap. But they’re not always the best route. Ready-made formulas are tested for wood safety and include instructions for coverage and dwell time. A DIY mix can work for light jobs, but for large or valuable decks, a branded product from a reputable store is often a better investment. Think of it like choosing between a handyman’s quick patch and a professional-grade treatment.
Want pro results without hiring a team? Here’s a simple, effective workflow you can use for most UK decks and fences.
Clear furniture, pots, and any loose debris. Sweep the area and trim back overhanging foliage so surfaces dry quicker and the cleaner can reach the wood. Cover plants with plastic sheeting if you’re using a strong chemical cleaner.
Mix the product to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Use a pump sprayer or brush it on in sections about 4–6 feet wide to keep the treatment fresh. let it dwell for the recommended time — usually between 5 minutes and 30 minutes depending on strength. Avoid letting it dry out on the surface unless the instructions say it’s safe.
Use a stiff broom or deck brush to scrub the wood, working along the grain. Rinse thoroughly with a hose or a pressure washer on a low setting. Keep the nozzle at least 12 inches away from the wood to avoid gouging soft fibres. Pressure washers are great for removing grime, but they can do damage if set too high.
If your cleaner stripped tannins or left grey patches, apply a wood brightener to even out the tone and restore the grain. Neutralise any remaining chemical residue as directed—some systems require a final rinse or a neutraliser product before you stain or seal.
Allow the surface to dry for at least 24–48 hours depending on weather. Once dry, consider sealing or staining to protect the wood. A good sealant can extend the life of your clean by months or even years.
Cleaning products can be harsh. Always wear gloves and eye protection, and consider a mask if you’re working with powder or aerosolised sprays. Don’t let strong chemicals run straight into storm drains. If the product instructions require dilution, measure carefully—more concentrated isn’t always better. For a gentler approach, oxygen-based products and plant-safe formulas perform well without harming surrounding greenery.
Coverage varies by product and wood porosity, but here’s a rough imperial-based planning guide: small decks around 100 square feet may need 1 quart to 1 gallon depending on concentration; medium decks up to 300 square feet often require 1–3 gallons; larger areas may need 5 gallons or more. Always round up and check the product label. Better to have a little left over than to run short mid-job.
Budget cleaners can revive mildly dirty fences, but deep staining or extensive algae often requires a mid-range or trade product. Consider the value: spending a bit more on a strong, reliable cleaner can save time, prevent repeat cleanings, and improve adhesion for stains and sealers. Think of it like buying a good paintbrush — the upfront cost feels higher, but the finish is worth it.
Once your deck and fence are clean, keep them that way with light maintenance. Sweep weekly, rinse after heavy dirt or pollen build-up, and reapply a mild cleaner annually. If your wood is in full shade or near trees, check every 6 months for moss and algae. Prevention is cheaper than a full restoration.
Before you hit the buy button at B&Q, Wickes, Screwfix, or online, run through this quick checklist: 1) Is the product suitable for your material? 2) Does it warn against use near plants or animals? 3) What is the coverage per gallon? 4) Do you need a brightener or neutraliser afterward? 5) Are applicator tools available at the same store? Answering these saves time and avoids mid-job trips to another shop.
Cleaning your deck and fence doesn’t have to be a weekend headache. With the right cleaner, basic tools, and sound technique, you can bring back the natural beauty of your outdoor wood and protect it for seasons to come. UK stores like B&Q, Wickes, Homebase, Screwfix, Toolstation, Amazon UK, Wilko, and local garden centres all offer excellent options. Match the product to the job, follow safety advice, and allow proper drying time before sealing. The payoff is worth it: a renewed outdoor space that feels like new and invites you to spend more time outside.
