How to Mix Bleach for Pressure Washing, House Wash, Roof Cleaning & Softwash

How to mix bleach properly when pressure washing or soft washing is critical to making sure you are able to clean efficiently and safely.
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Welcome to the channel, where we provide the best tips and tutorials for all your pressure washing needs! In today's video, we're diving deep into a crucial topic: *"How to Mix Bleach for Pressure Washing."* Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting your pressure washing business, understanding how to mix chemicals correctly is essential for achieving optimal results and maintaining safety.
*Why Mixing Chemicals Properly is Important*
When it comes to pressure washing, the right chemical mix can make all the difference. Using the wrong proportions or types of chemicals can damage surfaces, reduce the effectiveness of your cleaning, and even pose health risks. This video will guide you through the process of mixing bleach, specifically sodium hypochlorite, for various pressure washing applications.
*Understanding the Basics: Sodium Hypochlorite*
Sodium hypochlorite (SH) is a common bleaching agent used in pressure washing. It's effective for removing mold, mildew, and stains from surfaces like house exteriors, driveways, and roofs. Knowing the correct sodium hypochlorite mixing ratio is vital for ensuring effective and safe cleaning.
*Step-by-Step Guide to Mixing Bleach for Pressure Washing*
1. *Gather Your Equipment:*
Pressure washer
Downstream injector or x jet pressure washer
Measuring containers
Personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and goggles
2. *Determine the Right Mix Ratio:*
The mix ratio depends on the surface you're cleaning. For general house washing, a typical mix might be 1 part sodium hypochlorite to 10 parts water. For tougher stains, and, or roof washing, a stronger solution will be needed. Always refer to specific guidelines or manufacturer recommendations for your pressure washing chemicals.
3. *Batch Mixing Soft Wash:*
If you're not using a soft wash system, you'll likely be batch mixing your chemicals. This involves preparing a large batch of your chemical mix and drawing from it as needed. Ensure your batch mix is consistent.
4. *Using a Downstream Injector:*
For downstreaming pressure washing, you'll use a downstream injector to mix the chemicals automatically with water from your pressure washer. This method is convenient for continuous cleaning without manual mixing. Learn how to set up and adjust your downstream injector pressure washer for optimal chemical delivery.
5. *Safety First:*
Always wear appropriate PPE and work in well-ventilated areas. Bleach can be harmful if inhaled or if it comes into contact with skin or eyes. Ensure you have a neutralizing agent like vinegar on hand to counteract accidental spills.
*Special Tips for Different Surfaces*
*House Washing:* Use a softer mix to avoid damaging siding or paint. A typical house wash mix involves a lower concentration of sodium hypochlorite.
*Driveways and Concrete:* Pretreat concrete before pressure washing to loosen dirt and stains. A stronger bleach mix can be used here.
*Roof Washing:* Roof washing requires careful handling of chemicals to prevent damage to shingles and surrounding vegetation. A roof washing mix often includes additional surfactants to help the bleach adhere to the surface longer.
*Maintaining Your Equipment*
Properly mixing and using chemicals not only ensures a great clean but also helps maintain your pressure washing equipment. Regularly clean your downstream injector and other components to prevent buildup and extend their lifespan.
*Pressure Washing Business Tips*
For those running a pressure washing business, efficiency and safety are paramount. We'll share insights on streamlining your mixing process, managing chemical supplies, and ensuring consistent results for your clients.
Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated with our latest videos. We’re committed to helping you master pressure washing and grow your business. Let’s get cleaning!

[@HouseWashingRick]

Finally a video where the instructor is spot on and explained it so a child could understand it. Thank you

[@a.samora5998]

That's right!!

[@danielthompson2299]

Amen!

[@tylerbullis4231]

I need that lol

[@RB-ny5lh]

Unfortunately his math isn't accurate. An 80/20 mix is 20% not 2%..he says .2 is 2% but .2 is 20% he's not adding the extra 0 so he's saying 2% but his calculations are 20%

[@slypoision]

It’s me I’m the child

[@iouturtle]

This actually explained how to mix unlike other videos that just say "Mix this with that and you're done." Thank You

[@blazik1]

Thank you so much. This is the first video that’s finally explained everything and not assumed we know half of it. This is exactly what I needed.

[@TradeSchoolConsulting]

Thanks. Please subscribe to be notified when new videos are released and feel free to shoot us any questions. [e-mail]

[@sixstringer6074]

Mixing ratios, have you ever asked the so called gurus and they always say join my monthly membership, I have and it sucks, especially starting out. A guy named Billy Davidson saved my ass, many times. No matter what job you pull up to, stucco, Btick, Vinyl, , whatever. The last thing you want to do is kill landscaping, grass, etch windows, etc. You will have to pay to fix it. Billy has put together a mixing ratio table that takes all the math and guesswork out of it for you, being xjet, jrod or whatever you use. This is in my truvk and I use it everyday, think smart guys. The price was 50 bucks, I got him down to 39 dollars, thats nothing in this bizz but it will save uour ass. aparker.kartra.com/page/hqI53

[@cubbertson6383]

Man I’m a 21 year old young man yano starting a pressure washing business and I felt like I had everything down and you just helped my biggest struggle I appreciate the hands on learning for people like me 🤟🏼❤️

[@phntmk]

Hey in 21 starting up my business aswell hows it going for you?

[@thomasburr9244]

@@phntmkthis is his father . Cub killed himself last week. Business did not pan out

[@RTGaming28]

⁠@@thomasburr9244I’m sorry for your lost, your family will be in my prayers. My deepest condolences

[@_kadinwashere_]

This is exactly what i was looking for. A video explaining step by step so i can follow along and explaing everything as they go. No bullshit, no subscribe or like the video before he gets into it, just straight to the information. Love it.

[@TradeSchoolConsulting]

Awesome! Glad you enjoyed the video and thanks for the comment.

[@StringDriver]

Hands down, this is the best video I have seen on the subject. You are a fabulous teacher.

[@TradeSchoolConsulting]

Glad it was helpful! Also, if you need help growing your business, or want to see how you rank in Google Maps, click here salvonow.com/google-maps-ranking-strategy-covington/ or call the office at 859-757-2252. We've helped hundreds of pressure washing companies grow by multiple six and seven figures in the last 7 years.

[@TJ-ej3ql]

Never actually seen someone that can write equally as well with both hands. Ambidextrous master!

[@declanking-williams356]

Thank you man, that is the first video that explains it so well. I really appreciate your knowledge. Keep up the great work.

[@sixstringer6074]

I have put together mixing ratios for 5 gallon mixes, weather your downstreaming or xjetting. so called gurus they want to charge you enormous amounts of money or buy into their program. I have cut that price over half. Please email for info. [e-mail]. also includes roof mix and 1 gallon pump sprayer. All you will ever need

[@GrizOnTheTrail]

Excellent video. I finally know the mix percentage AFTER going through the downstream injector! Thank you. You earned my subscription.

[@TradeSchoolConsulting]

🙏🙏🙏

[@rubenespiritu4613]

Very informative.im planning to do soap washing.

[@owenthompson5511]

I came up with a simple equation to make mixing bleach easier when you know your target percentage of SH and your draw ratio: x = y*z x = SH % y = draw ratio (i.e. if your ratio is 5:1, then you'd do 5+1=6, so y=6. Or if its 10:1, 10+1=11 so y=11, etc) z = target percentage you want coming out of the gun This way, if you know your draw ratio and what percent SH you want, this equation will give you the correct percent of SH to be pulling from either a downstream injector or x-jet. And then from there you can use an online mix calculator, or the one in this video, to figure out a batch mix - how much water needed to dilute your bleach to get that percent SH drawn into the ds injector or x-jet. Great video!

[@falicityhogan1726]

How do you find the draw ratio of your down streamer?

[@TradeSchoolConsulting]

Appreciate the helpful tip! Thanks for watching! Also, if you need help growing your business, or want to see how you rank in Google Maps, click here salvonow.com/google-maps-ranking-strategy-covington/ or call the office at 859-757-2252. We've helped hundreds of pressure washing companies grow by multiple six and seven figures in the last 7 years.

[@t3g860]

Absolutely Best Video out there to help understand both down streaming and Soft Wash. I looked everywhere to try and figure out what the percentage of water to bleach was coming out of my pressure washer. Thanks

[@TradeSchoolConsulting]

Glad it was helpful for you! Also, if you need help growing your business, or want to see how you rank in Google Maps, click here salvonow.com/google-maps-ranking-strategy-covington/ or call the office at 859-757-2252. We've helped hundreds of pressure washing companies grow by multiple six and seven figures in the last 7 years.

[@TheBryceJohnston]

your the first one that’s ever said how the chemical will flow by how much pressure is going thank you

[@bradydeason1715]

Best video I’ve seen explains the chemical process so far

[@2924dh]

Great Video! I have been asking this question and watching hundreds of videos and no one has explained both dilutions the SH goes through to get the final product, thank you. It makes so much sense now!

[@boradaniel8654]

I loved the vid and the math is flawless. The nerd way or if this is not the first time you had to watch the video ;) desired concentration = how strong you want your mix to be concentration of your chemical = how strong your bleach indicated on the label bleach content = gal of bleach in each gal of water. 0.1 bleach content means 1 gal of solution is made out of 0.1 gal of bleach + 0.9 gal water. Replace gal with liter if metric ^.^ Soft wash: [desired concentration] / [concentration of your chemical] = bleach content 2 / 10 = 0.5 5 / 15 = 0.33 Downstream: ([desired concentration] / [concentration of your chemical])*5 = bleach content, if bleach content is larger than 1, then to desired concentration cannot be reached with a venturi/down stream application. (2 / 10) * 5 = (0.2) * 5 = 1 (5 / 10) * 5 = (0.5) * 5 = 2.5 ==> impossible to mix with DS (2 / 15) * 5 = (0.133) * 5 = 0.665 ==> have to dilute the chemical before down stream application. ***image of a potato***

[@jeffd72703]

Great explanation!

[@Dr.Watts0523]

FINALLY!!! Thank you for your help. Everything finally clicked in my head.

[@lonewolf744]

Best explanation of this on the internet. Period. Thanks.

[@chipcunningham6005]

The best video I have ever seen on mixing chems for house washing

[@anthonyross9053]

Thanks so much man this video was super helpful and made things much easier to understand. Although 4:1 is a 25% mixture not a 20% mixture so the SH would he 2.5% not 2%

[@jeffdean4880]

No, a 3:1 would be 25%. If you have 4:1, you have 5 parts. 4 of water 1 of bleach = 5 parts. In 10 gallons 8 would be water, 2 would be bleach this 20%

[@whererv1507]

i use a small barrel like 30g. i set my mixer to pull from it thru my ef7000 pump and softwash spray the mix i did in the barrel. I always rinse then rinse the shrubs that were pre soaked again. i really like the video you did

[@TradeSchoolConsulting]

Watering is definitely key to landscaping. Look at using post bleach wash to reverse the effects of the sodium. Also, if you need help growing your business, or want to see how you rank in Google Maps, click here salvonow.com/google-maps-ranking-strategy-covington/ or call the office at 859-757-2252. We've helped hundreds of pressure washing companies grow by multiple six and seven figures in the last 7 years.

[@rosannaburgess714]

Thank you for your help, i needed this. Have a great evening😊

[@rodneybeache425]

I want to take this opportunity and say thank you. In the world 🌎 we live in, so many people would not share this information. You took the time to help and I really appreciate that. I not only subscribed to your channel, but I gave you a thumbs up. Once again thank you and God Bless.

[@isadore9957]

Good stuff to be used and passed on.

[@stevewyatt2002]

This is the best video I have found about mixing and using a down stream injector. I'm trying to get down to 1.5% SH on certain jobs and I have a better understanding how to get there now. Thanks!

[@josuediazmontoya9732]

Thank you. You have made me a one happy guy. I’d give you hug if I could. Nice explanation.

[@1.5Deg_Is_NonNegotiable]

Sure helps to have someone who is both intelligent AND articulate explain this process...

[@flltimeproductions8047]

I skipped over the video at first because I thought he was going to talk out of his ass but then decided to give it a chance. This is by far the best video I have found where they explain in detail everything you need to know.

[@charliejones594]

i did the same thing very informational

[@ivanjaramillo884]

Thank you so much. This was very helpful. You are one of the few people out there that explains chemical mixing thoroughly. You are great!

[@tsvetelinpetrov5724]

Thank you so much. Great explanation for entry level washers like myself!

[@regispark05]

Literally the best video that tells the difference with a great breakdown . Love the math as well . Definitely got a subscriber in me

[@iyona14granturismogt6gtspo7]

As a prosumer type guy who details cars and soft wash houses, I hope you guys look into foam cannons for a cheap direct strength applicator, works great for a quick small batch of hot mix.

[@TradeSchoolConsulting]

When starting out, it definitely can help, but as you grow and get larget jobs, a foam cannon won't be able to provide the efficiency that the commercial tools and equipment that is available will provide. Also, if you need help growing your business, or want to see how you rank in Google Maps, click here salvonow.com/google-maps-ranking-strategy-covington/ or call the office at 859-757-2252. We've helped hundreds of pressure washing companies grow by multiple six and seven figures in the last 7 years.

[@oscarvalle9508]

Thanks Dave. You cleared up a major question I had. Subbed.

[@FBiTOPDOG]

Excellent job. You think the people that sell the pressure washers would tell you this but they don’t leave it up to you to figure it out. Which I did 25 years ago. Great job

[@gavinclark6451]

Easily the best video I’ve seen on mixing bleach, thanks man!

[@Pressurewashingclean]

I have used this video more then once. Best video out there explaining chemicals

[@briankaufman5714]

Going to have my employee watch this. Thank you, good knowledge to refresh my memory also.

[@TradeSchoolConsulting]

Thank you! There is so much to know about pressure washing, roof washing, etc. That is why David is a big proponent of power washing journals. It’s a great tool to be able to look back on knowledge you had once attained but have since forgotten.

[@sixstringer6074]

I have put together mixing ratios for 5 gallon mixes, weather your downstreaming or xjetting. so called gurus they want to charge you enormous amounts of money or buy into their program. I have cut that price over half. Please email for info. [e-mail]. also includes roof mix and 1 gallon pump sprayer. All you will ever need

[@Cartduckmann]

Yeah probably the best informational video on KZbin

[@jacobhouse2294]

the best educational video on mixing chemicals. Thankyou for awesome content.

[@bobkat2601]

As an engineer this was the best explanation on mixing SH using math! Now I understand completely.

[@johnwiechel]

Glad I found this video. Very much appreciated man

[@Jafri24]

Holy shit finally someone with good explanation 😭😭

[@chrisrubio2218]

Dude your the only person I have seen that has explained this perfectly! Keep posting man you got a subscriber 🔥

[@SMITTY19722]

I had my hand raised the whole time and you didn’t pick me😂😂😂

[@TradeSchoolConsulting]

Sorry I missed that!!! Keep raising your hands and watching the videos! Also, if you need help growing your business, or want to see how you rank in Google Maps, click here salvonow.com/google-maps-ranking-strategy-covington/ or call the office at 859-757-2252. We've helped hundreds of pressure washing companies grow by multiple six and seven figures in the last 7 years.

[@johnnybravisimo007]

This was super helpful! Glad I ran into this channel!

[@NateCoppock-i1o]

Thank you for this video. One of the best ones ive seen to help a new guy like myself

[@BraxtonFreeman26]

This is the most helpful video out there great job explaining this

[@billeckelberry6502]

Excellent job! Expertly explained and able to write well with either hand! Very impressive. Thank you for nice job.

[@americascout6764]

Thank you so much for breaking it down so well

[@rodneyhouchensful]

Thank you so much!! I really appreciate your help!! 💪🏾 💪🏾

[@TradeSchoolConsulting]

For sure! Thanks for watching the video! Also, if you need help growing your business, or want to see how you rank in Google Maps, click here salvonow.com/google-maps-ranking-strategy-covington/ or call the office at 859-757-2252. We've helped hundreds of pressure washing companies grow by multiple six and seven figures in the last 7 years.

[@Frindleeguy]

Good job. This is probably the most often asked question in the comments on the vides I watch. I'm sure you're helping a lot of folks!

[@salteastsimon]

if you run dual downstream injectors inline do you get a 4% mix? 3 would make 6% plenty hot enough for roof washing and stone work

[@1stFlyingeagle]

Thank you. I have been looking for a video to teach the math on mixing strength and math for down streaming.

[@TradeSchoolConsulting]

You're very welcome! Appreciate you watching!! Also, if you need help growing your business, or want to see how you rank in Google Maps, click here salvonow.com/google-maps-ranking-strategy-covington/ or call the office at 859-757-2252. We've helped hundreds of pressure washing companies grow by multiple six and seven figures in the last 7 years.

[@JamesRyanHarbour]

This was super helpful. I have a 4.0gom No tank. Got tired of using pump sprayer. This showed me the correct ratios with the downstreaming

[@abrahamrosas7433]

Yo.. yooooo, was I the only one that noticed This guy is using both he’s hands to write on the board! Haha very nice. This helps your brain to think with both parts of the brain that is used for either the right or the left hand. Very smart. Also great video! You knew how to explain in detail, thank you. This will help a ton

[@mr.m.3280]

Thank you for the thorough explanation!

[@brandongilman1749]

Great video and great breakdown to help people, much appreciated

[@immadoyarealgood7803]

Great video, though im a little confused... I did a draw test with my 2.5gpm simpson, running a GP 2-3gpm 1.8 DI, at the end a jrod 1/4 MEG 2540 tip. Filled a 5g bucket w/ water for the draw test and stuck the spray tip into an empty 5g bucket. I ended up pulling 2 gallons from my "chem" bucket by the time i filled the empty 5g. That tells me im pulling almost a 2.5% mix or 40% injection ratio. So how is that possible if what you're saying, that a DI will only pull 2% max? Thanks again for the very informational vid. Ckean and concise!

[@Robnord1]

The app for batch mix I have on my phone (BATCHMix) says 2 gal bleach + 3 gal water (assuming you're using 12.5% bleach) = a 5% cleaning solution. (4% if you have 10% bleach)

[@krisriley3498]

Thanks, this is the first time I actually understood the difference 👍🏼

[@PatrickDodenhoff]

Awesome teacher .thanks

[@pressurewashingchainsawmas8118]

I watched this video a couple of months ago when I was first was looking to do this and I was like WTF??? Now I knew what he was gonna say before he said it! Lol thank you bro for the video!

[@billymarkwell1105]

just found your video.......super informative, very helpful for a diy homeowner.........

[@daviddoucette6681]

Good explanation, thanks.

[@matthewsharp88]

Best video I have found to help with me completing the job right and efficiently...

[@Brisketboy5]

Bro is ambidextrous! Kept switching hands!

[@renostubbs8504]

The best explanation on youtube, wow bro

[@tedspens]

Total rookie, here. Thank you for breaking this down. My take is that if I buy 30 Second Outdoor Cleaner and use the siphon tube connected to my machine, I should NOT dilute the cleaning solution. Did I get it right?

[@TradeSchoolConsulting]

I wouldn't dilute but go to the pool supply store and buy liquid pool shock. Cheaper and will clean 5 times more than the gallon of 30 Second Outdoor Cleaner. Also, if you need help growing your business, or want to see how you rank in Google Maps, click here salvonow.com/google-maps-ranking-strategy-covington/ or call the office at 859-757-2252. We've helped hundreds of pressure washing companies grow by multiple six and seven figures in the last 7 years.

[@mates_rates_pressure_washing]

after all that easy to understand info how could i not subscribe:) a question though, my downstream injector nozzle is a 3:1 do you think this would be accurate or just stick with your info that 4:1 is maxed out. cheers from Australia 🍺

[@wes8740]

This is very informative, explained it perfectly. Thanks

[@erinmattord1154]

Wow I’m just getting started and I can’t thank you enough for explaining this so I can understand the differences between down stream and soft wash.. can you help me figure how how to do soft wash or if I can. Im using a 4400 psi 4 GPM machine.

[@mr17moir95]

Amazing Fix!! Excellent results. Thanks for sharing.

[@alexlox1015]

Very well explained. Thanks!👊🏼

[@RogueScum]

Great information and superb execution on delivering the point.

[@KuntryFried_ATV]

Thank you, thank you, thank you. I've been asking for months and just getting roundabout replies. This made it so simple and easy to understand. Thank you again.

[@HimathyJenkinsthethird]

Finally a video that explains this in English thank you very much this was like worthy.👍

[@churchillcoins8519]

Great video just what I’ve been looking for. Thank you. Can you create a video of what % to use for roof? Siding? Concrete? Etc.

[@TradeSchoolConsulting]

Email [e-mail] and ask for a ratio chart. We will email a chart to you that you can use as a guide and understand that stains or growths vary in each circumstance. This chart is a suggestion for the different surfaces you may encounter. Thanks

[@datnigga2much327]

@@TradeSchoolConsulting is this still a thing? I could really use that chart

[@louisbaladez1186]

Great explanation you got a new subscriber. Thank you Bro

[@KOmbat92]

Yes very nice explanation my guy!

[@TradeSchoolConsulting]

Thanks for watching! Appreciate the kind words. Also, if you need help growing your business, or want to see how you rank in Google Maps, click here salvonow.com/google-maps-ranking-strategy-covington/ or call the office at 859-757-2252. We've helped hundreds of pressure washing companies grow by multiple six and seven figures in the last 7 years.

[@michaellopez202]

You can explain this so well! Thank you so much!

[@troyhesters]

This video was very helpful thank you

[@JacksoClean617]

Well done,great way to explain

[@fernandoban5050]

Great video explanation man!, thanks a lot! You encourage me to start

[@Allcoastlawnandpressurewashing]

Oh my goodness!! Now I’m not confused. Thank you so much for this video

[@PatrickDodenhoff]

Awesome teacher.

[@ThERealist2019]

Thank you for the information. Keep up the great work! 👍

[@invisiblehealing885]

This is the video I was trying to find for weeks of endless searching, so many KZbin clowns dancing around this extremely important aspect, Thank you!

[@bobnaidoo1]

Wow. Excellent video and very informative. If I am soft washing a house with a foam cannon what’s the ratio of SH to water to surfactant ? Thanks !

[@sixstringer6074]

I have put together mixing ratios for 5 gallon mixes, weather your downstreaming or xjetting. so called gurus they want to charge you enormous amounts of money or buy into their program. I have cut that price over half. Please email for info. [e-mail]. also includes roof mix and 1 gallon pump sprayer. All you will ever need

[@carlossanchez8596]

Bro, thank you!! This just saved me lots of time and effort.

[@diegobermea868]

What would an xjet be conisdered? Thanks for the helpful video!!

[@afiasheikh416]

i'm an ex-software-teacher and I like your teaching method. I sub just to watch you..

[@chrisreddick36]

I just learned a lot on this video thanks for sharing

[@sdsjuggernaut1022]

Thanks for your help man this really helped me understand using chemicals and makes me allot more comfortable.

[@alexstratis6526]

thank God for this. Very well explained.

[@Mikeb-tx4cd]

Outstanding explanation and video

[@TradeSchoolConsulting]

Thanks! David loves discussions around pressure washing and soft washing.

[@sixstringer6074]

I have put together mixing ratios for 5 gallon mixes, weather your downstreaming or xjetting. so called gurus they want to charge you enormous amounts of money or buy into their program. I have cut that price over half. Please email for info. [e-mail]. also includes roof mix and 1 gallon pump sprayer. All you will ever need

[@jonnybekeww5639]

Thank you so much.First video I actually understood.

[@TheNorthTownBoys]

Thanks for the information.Know one can explain chemical mixing this well! 🙌🙌🔥🔥

[@tonyparker2579]

Thank you . Your information really settled my mind.

[@cmtechservicewindsor]

Thanks for the instruction.

[@Haases93]

Very informative. Thank you for breaking it down like this

[@ronaldcostales7408]

Very helpful, thank you for taking the time to explain this correctly. It is much appreciated.

[@pd2865]

Great teaching video. Simplicity.