Evansville summers are made for grilling out, but all those juicy burgers and saucy ribs can leave your deck looking like a grease-splattered mess by Monday morning. Whether it’s wood, composite, or concrete, no surface is safe from BBQ fallout. So, what’s the best way to get BBQ grease and stains off your deck this summer?
Here’s your go-to guide for post-party cleanup—because nobody wants last weekend’s stains ruining next weekend’s vibe.
1. Act Fast: Timing Matters
The sooner you clean up, the easier it is to prevent lasting stains.
- Blot fresh grease immediately with paper towels or rags (don’t rub!)
- Rinse with water to dilute greasy residue before it soaks into porous surfaces
- Sweep up food particles and debris—they can leave behind discoloration or attract pests
Quick action reduces long-term damage and makes the full cleanup easier. Don’t wait until the stains set in.
2. What You’ll Need for a DIY Clean-Up
If you’re tackling the deck yourself, gather:
- Dish soap (degreasing type)
- Warm water
- A stiff-bristle brush or deck scrubber
- Garden hose (with spray nozzle)
- Baking soda (for tougher spots)
- Absorbent powder (kitty litter or cornstarch for fresh spills)
Steps:
- Apply soapy water directly to the stain.
- Scrub in circles using moderate pressure.
- Let it sit for 5–10 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly.
- For persistent stains, sprinkle baking soda, scrub again, and rinse.
Need a deeper clean? Professional pressure washing can lift stains that soap and elbow grease can’t.
3. Know Your Deck Material
Different deck surfaces need different care:
- Wood decks: Use low-pressure washing or soft scrubbing—too much force can splinter wood.
- Composite decks: Stick with gentle cleaners to avoid damaging the finish.
- Concrete patios: These can handle high-pressure washing but need degreasers for oil-based stains.
Not sure which approach is safest for your deck? Cloud 9 Window Cleaning’s team knows exactly how to treat each material to protect and restore it.
4. Prevent Future Stains Before They Start
Want to avoid repeating the cleanup next weekend?
- Use a grill mat or drip tray under your BBQ.
- Encourage guests to use designated trash areas for food waste.
- Hose down the deck at the end of each party.
- Apply a deck sealant annually to protect porous surfaces.
These small habits can prevent major messes.
5. When to Call the Pros
If your deck:
- Still looks greasy after scrubbing
- Has dark or oily stains that won’t lift
- Is starting to smell from old food residue
…it’s time to bring in the experts.
At Cloud 9, we use eco-friendly cleaners and equipment suited to your specific surface—whether wood, composite, or concrete—to safely lift BBQ stains and bring your deck back to life. We handle the tough jobs so you can enjoy your space again.
Grill Hard, Clean Easy
Don’t let grease stains dampen your summer fun. With a little prep—and help from Cloud 9—you can keep your deck clean, beautiful, and always ready for the next backyard bash.
Call (812) 306-8110, visit cloud9wc.com, or check out our Google Maps listing to schedule your summer deck cleaning. Let’s keep your weekends worry-free!