Melbourne homeowners take pride in maintaining beautiful homes, but the city’s unpredictable weather, seasonal rains, and leafy suburbs mean exterior walls quickly collect dirt, mould, and grime.
Keeping your home’s exterior clean not only improves street appeal but also protects surfaces from long-term damage.
Two of the most popular methods are soft washing and pressure washing. But which is best for your home?
In this guide, we’ll compare the two techniques, highlight their pros and cons, and help you choose the right solution for house washing in Melbourne.
Why Exterior House Washing Matters in Melbourne
From Carlton to Camberwell, Melbourne homes face common issues such as:
- Mould and algae growth due to damp winters
- Dust and pollen building up on walls and windows
- Traffic pollution in inner suburbs
- Leaf debris and dirt in leafy, tree-lined areas
Unwashed homes don’t just lose their Visual appeal – grime can eat away at paint, damage surfaces, and even trigger allergies. That’s why regular house washing is an important part of home maintenance.
What is Pressure Washing?
Pressure washing uses high-pressure water jets to blast away dirt, grime, and mould.
Best For:
- Concrete walls and pathways
- Brickwork
- Hard surfaces with deep-set grime
Risks:
- Too much pressure can strip paint
- Not suitable for delicate surfaces like weatherboard, stucco, or rendered walls
In Melbourne: Pressure washing is often chosen for driveways, walls with graffiti, and very dirty exterior surfaces.
What is Soft Washing?
Soft washing uses low-pressure water combined with eco-friendly cleaning solutions. Instead of blasting dirt, it gently kills mould, algae, and bacteria at the root.
Best For:
- Painted weatherboard homes
- Rendered or stucco surfaces
- Roofs and delicate exteriors
- Areas prone to mould and mildew
Risks:
- May take slightly longer
- Requires professional equipment for best results
In Melbourne: Soft washing is increasingly popular in heritage suburbs, where many homes have delicate finishes.
Soft Wash vs Pressure Wash: Key Differences
Soft Wash uses low-pressure water combined with eco-friendly cleaning solutions. It gently kills mould, algae, and bacteria at the root, making it perfect for delicate surfaces like painted weatherboards, stucco, and roofs.
The clean lasts longer because it eliminates spores that would otherwise regrow.
Pressure Wash, on the other hand, relies on high-pressure water jets to physically blast away dirt, grime, and algae.
It works best on hard surfaces such as brick, concrete, and stone, but carries a higher risk of damage if used incorrectly.
Which Method to Choose:
- Soft Wash: Ideal for homes with delicate paintwork, areas prone to mould, or damp Melbourne suburbs.
- Pressure Wash: Suitable for hard, durable surfaces that need heavy dirt removal, like driveways and brick walls.
Many Melbourne homes benefit from a combination: soft wash for walls and roofs, and pressure wash for driveways or concrete paths.
Which Method is Right for Your Home?
Choosing between soft wash and pressure wash depends on your home’s surface materials and cleaning needs:
- Use Soft Wash If:
- Your home has delicate paintwork
- You want to prevent mould regrowth
- You live in a damp suburb with mildew problems
- Your home has delicate paintwork
- Use Pressure Wash If:
- You need to clean concrete, brick, or stone
- You’re removing heavy dirt, graffiti, or oil stains
- Your surfaces can withstand high pressure
- You need to clean concrete, brick, or stone
Many Melbourne homes benefit from a combination of both methods – for example, soft wash for walls and roofs, pressure wash for driveways and pathways.
DIY vs Professional House Washing in Melbourne
While DIY pressure washers are widely available, they come with risks:
- Incorrect use can strip paint and damage siding
- Store-bought detergents may not be eco-friendly
- Safety concerns when working at heights
Professional house washing services in Melbourne offer:
- Trained technicians using the right method for each surface
- Eco-friendly cleaning agents safe for plants and pets
- Insurance coverage for peace of mind
- Faster, long-lasting results
Benefits of Regular House Washing
- Boosts Visual appeal
- and property value
- Protects paintwork and exterior materials
- Removes allergens and mould spores
- Prevents costly repairs from moisture damage
FAQs: House Washing in Melbourne
Q: How often should I wash my house in Melbourne?
A: Most homes benefit from a wash every 12–18 months, but shaded or damp homes may need it annually.
Q: Is soft washing safe for all surfaces?
A: Yes, soft washing is safe for most exterior surfaces, including delicate paint, cladding, render, and weatherboards.
Q: How much does house washing cost in Melbourne?
A: Professional house washing usually depends on size and method.
Q: Will house washing remove mould permanently?
A: Soft washing kills mould spores, meaning it lasts longer than pressure washing alone.
Both soft washing and pressure washing are effective house washing methods in Melbourne, but the right choice depends on your home’s materials and cleaning needs.
Soft washing offers a gentle, long-lasting clean for delicate surfaces, while pressure washing is best for hard, durable areas.
Looking for expert advice and professional results? At Revive Group, we specialise in both soft wash and pressure wash house cleaning across Melbourne.
Contact Revive Group today for a free quote and restore your home’s exterior the safe and effective way.