How do you clean a deck for staining?

To be able to stain a deck properly all of the dirt and mildew must be thoroughly cleaned from the deck. There are two main options for cleaning; you can either use a power washer or clean by hand and use a hose. If the deck is covered in dirt or loose debris start by scrubbing (or power washing) and rinsing everything that is easily removed. After that is done mix your outdoor cleaner of choice (we prefer outdoor bleach or oxi clean depending on situation) with water in a pump up sprayer per manufacturer recommendation. Evenly coat the deck with cleaner and use a scrub brush to work chemicals into the wood and lift all dirt/mildew. Be sure to keep your cleaner and deck wet as you go, it is easier to do small sections at a time. After cleaner has soaked and been scrubbed for 10-20 min you are ready to rinse off with a hose or pressure wash clean. After the deck is fully washed let the wood dry for a day or two and you'll be ready to stain.