Treehouses and elevated platforms are magical outdoor spaces—whether they’re a child’s fort, a backyard reading nook, or a platform for entertaining guests. But over time, these high-up structures collect dirt, algae, bird droppings, mildew, and insect debris. Regular cleaning is important not only for appearance but also for safety and longevity.
While it’s tempting to grab the pressure washer and blast away the grime, doing so can damage wood, dislodge boards, or harm tree trunks. The solution? Low-pressure washing. Let’s explore how to clean treehouses and raised platforms effectively and safely. 🧼🌿
🌲 Why Power Washing Treehouses Requires Caution
Treehouses are often made of:
- Unfinished or lightly sealed wood
- DIY framing and fasteners
- Exposed nails, rope ladders, or hardware
- Tree trunks or branches as support
These factors make them vulnerable to high-pressure water, which can cause:
- Splintering or erosion of soft wood
- Water intrusion into joints or tree bark
- Loosening of structural fasteners
- Damage to waterproofing or sealants
That’s why low-pressure cleaning (a.k.a. soft washing) is the recommended approach. 💡
🧰 Equipment You’ll Need
- Garden hose with a nozzle or soft wash system
- Low-pressure pressure washer (under 1,000 PSI)
- 40° spray tip (for wide, gentle coverage)
- Mild wood-safe detergent or soap
- Long-handled brush or soft scrubber
- Bucket, gloves, and safety goggles
- Ladder or extension pole (if needed)
🧼 Optional: A backpack sprayer for tight, elevated areas.
✅ Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
1. Inspect Before You Wash 🔍
Look for loose nails, cracked boards, rot, or signs of insects. Tighten fasteners and repair any unsafe areas.
2. Clear Loose Debris 🧹
Remove leaves, branches, toys, or furniture. Sweep or dry brush to eliminate loose dust and cobwebs.
3. Apply Detergent 🧽
Mix a biodegradable wood cleaner with water and apply using a sprayer or soft brush. Let it soak for 5–10 minutes.
4. Scrub Gently
Use a long-handled brush to scrub dirty areas, railings, or algae-streaked boards. Pay attention to joints, corners, and steps.
5. Rinse With Low Pressure 💦
Use a 40° tip on a low setting (or just a hose with nozzle) to rinse from top to bottom. Avoid focusing water directly on tree bark, joints, or undersides.
🧪 Best Cleaners for Treehouse Washing
Use only eco-friendly, non-toxic products—especially if your treehouse is built around a live tree. Look for:
- Plant-safe deck cleaner
- Vinegar + mild soap solution
- Oxygenated bleach (for mold/mildew)
Avoid bleach-based or solvent-heavy detergents that could harm the tree or surrounding soil.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Using high PSI (>1,500) on soft wood
❌ Spraying into board joints or roof seams
❌ Washing before checking structure for rot
❌ Getting water behind support beams
❌ Letting cleaning solution dry before rinsing
These missteps can cause structural issues or promote rot over time.
🪵 What About Painted or Stained Surfaces?
If your treehouse is sealed or painted:
- Use even lower pressure (800–1,000 PSI max)
- Test a small area to ensure the finish won’t strip
- Re-stain or repaint after cleaning if needed
Frequent cleaning with a soft touch will extend the life of your finish and reduce the need for annual maintenance.
🧽 How Often Should You Clean a Treehouse?
- Light use: Once a year (spring or fall)
- Heavy use by kids: Every 6–9 months
- Shady, moist locations: Twice per year to combat mildew
- Before sealing/painting: Always wash and let dry first
🌳 Don’t Forget the Tree!
If your treehouse is built into a living tree:
- Avoid blasting water into the bark or roots
- Inspect for signs of stress, rot, or bark damage
- Let the tree fully dry after washing before using the structure again
Clean the area around the base of the treehouse to discourage insects and animals from nesting.
👷 When to Call a Pro
Hire a professional if:
- Your treehouse is very high or difficult to access
- You’re dealing with stubborn mold, bird waste, or sap
- The platform shows signs of rot or structural wear
- You’re not comfortable navigating ladders or pressure equipment
Professionals often offer soft wash services specifically for wooden decks, playsets, and tree structures.
🌞 Final Thoughts
Treehouses are meant to be fun, whimsical, and safe—and keeping them clean plays a big role in that. With low-pressure washing, gentle cleaning agents, and a careful approach, you can preserve your structure, protect the supporting tree, and keep things looking great year after year. 🏡🌳🧼
