Exterior window shutters add personality and charm to a home’s facade—but over time, they accumulate dirt, spider webs, pollen, mildew, and more. While power washing might seem like the fastest way to get them clean, it’s also easy to damage shutters if you use the wrong technique or pressure. 😬
In this guide, you’ll learn how to safely and effectively power wash shutters made from various materials—without cracking plastic, chipping paint, or loosening attachments. 🧼✨
🪟 Common Types of Exterior Shutters
Before grabbing your pressure washer, you need to know what your shutters are made of:
- Vinyl or plastic shutters – Lightweight and common, but brittle under high pressure
- Wood shutters – Durable but prone to paint peeling and rot
- Composite or engineered wood – Water-resistant, but not immune to damage
- Metal shutters (aluminum/steel) – Strong but may dent with narrow, high-pressure jets
Each type has different cleaning needs, so customize your approach accordingly.
🧰 Equipment & Tools You’ll Need
To clean shutters safely:
- A pressure washer with adjustable PSI
- A 25° or 40° spray tip
- An extension wand or ladder (use carefully!)
- Mild, exterior-safe detergent
- A soft-bristle brush for scrubbing if needed
- Optional: a low-pressure soap applicator or soft wash system
📏 PSI tip: Keep pressure between 800–1,200 PSI max for most shutters. Anything stronger risks cracking or chipping.
🧪 Choose the Right Cleaning Solution
Skip harsh chemicals or bleach unless you’re dealing with heavy mold or mildew. Instead, use:
- A 50/50 mix of white vinegar and water
- A drop or two of dish soap in warm water
- Commercial house wash solutions safe for siding and shutters (like Simple Green or Krud Kutter)
Apply cleaners using a pump sprayer or soap nozzle, not full pressure. Let it sit 5–10 minutes to break down grime.
🪣 Step-by-Step Power Washing Instructions
1. Inspect for Damage 🔍
Check for cracked panels, loose fasteners, or faded paint. If anything’s loose, secure it before cleaning.
2. Pre-Wet the Area 💦
Lightly spray the shutters to rinse off loose debris and reduce detergent absorption.
3. Apply Detergent 🧼
Use low pressure or a pump sprayer to apply the cleaning solution. Let it dwell but don’t let it dry.
4. Scrub Gently if Needed 🧽
For stubborn spots, use a soft brush to agitate dirt—especially in corners or louvered slats.
5. Rinse Top to Bottom 🚿
Use a 25° or 40° spray tip and stand 3–4 feet away. Rinse thoroughly from top to bottom, aiming slightly downward to prevent water from getting behind the shutters.
⚠️ What to Avoid
❌ Never use a zero-degree or turbo nozzle—they can destroy plastic or paint
❌ Don’t pressure wash wood shutters with peeling paint (it will strip them further)
❌ Avoid spraying directly into louvered slats or behind shutters
❌ Don’t forget to turn off outdoor lighting fixtures nearby
Use extra caution on older homes or homes with painted wood shutters—sometimes it’s best to hand wash those instead.
🪟 How to Clean Shutters on the Second Story
Cleaning upper-floor shutters can be tricky. You have two safe options:
- Use an extension wand to reach without climbing
- Use a ladder and stabilize it properly (always have a spotter)
If you don’t feel safe doing this yourself, hire a professional—many pressure washing companies have the tools to clean multi-story shutters from the ground using telescopic poles.
🧼 How Often Should You Clean Exterior Shutters?
Most homeowners can get away with cleaning shutters once a year, ideally in spring or fall. But you may need more frequent cleaning if you notice:
- High pollen buildup
- Mold or mildew growth
- Heavy dust from nearby construction or roads
- Lots of spider webs 🕸️
🧽 Aftercare Tips
- Dry the shutters with a microfiber cloth to prevent streaks
- Consider applying a UV-protectant spray for vinyl or plastic shutters
- For wood, follow up with a sealant or touch-up paint if needed
Regular maintenance will make future cleaning easier and extend the life of your shutters. 🧼✅
👷 When to Hire a Pro
You should consider calling in a professional if:
- Your shutters are on the second or third story
- There’s extensive mildew or algae growth
- The shutters are part of an older or delicate historic home
- You don’t have safe access to properly reach them
Professionals have the right pressure settings, cleaning solutions, and tools to make quick work of the job—safely.
🧽 Final Thoughts
Power washing your exterior window shutters is a quick way to boost curb appeal—but it’s also easy to go overboard and cause damage if you’re not careful. With the right PSI, detergent, and technique, you can keep your shutters clean and in top shape year-round. 🪟💧🏡
