Cleaning Bankirai with green soap: what works and what doesn't?

A bankirai terrace or deck is a valuable addition to your garden: sturdy, durable, and with a beautiful natural appearance. However, even this strong type of wood requires regular maintenance to remain beautiful and safe. Many people think that you can clean bankirai with green soap, but unfortunately, that is not the best choice. In this text, you will discover why not, what you can do instead, and how to get your wooden terrace clean and well-maintained again.

A wooden deck, such as a bankirai deck, is exposed to rain, sun, leaves, dirt, and algae all year round. Due to these weather influences, green deposits, discoloration, and a slippery surface quickly develop. Not only is this unsafe, but it also makes your deck look less attractive.

Regular cleaning helps to:

– Preserve the original color of the wood
– Prevent slipperiness caused by algae and moss
– Extend the lifespan of the wood
– Prevent stains and graying

Green soap is known as a natural and mild cleaning agent. However, for a type of wood like bankirai, it is actually not recommended.

Disadvantages of cleaning bankirai with green soap

• Leaves a greasy layer behind: This actually causes dirt to stick to the surface better.
• Not powerful enough for green deposits: Stubborn dirt often disappears only partially.
• Disrupts wood protection: Green soap can hinder oil absorption and thus dry out the wood.
• Increases risk of discoloration: Uneven application can affect the color of the wood.

It is better to use products specifically developed for wooden decks such as bankirai. These clean effectively *and* protect your wood in the long term.

So what should you use instead? At Osmo Netherlands, we recommend two safe and effective products:

Osmo Patio Cleaner

• Removes dirt, algae, and green deposits
• Suitable for wooden patios and decking
• Safe for plants, animals, and wooden surfaces

Osmo Power-Gel Wood Degreaser

• Restores the original color of bankirai
• Perfect for cleaning grayed decking
• Gel form does not run and adheres well

Both products are easy to apply with an Osmo patio brush and telescopic handle.

• Mild, safe, and effective
• Suitable for all wooden decks
• Removes green deposits without damaging the wood

Finally, you will also need a bucket of clean water.

After cleaning, you will want to protect the wood against moisture and discoloration. Therefore, treat it (if necessary) with a suitable oil:

Osmo Terrace Oil

• Specifically for horizontal decking boards
• Available in various colors, including the popular Bankirai color
• Penetrates deep into the wood and offers long-lasting protection

Osmo UV Protection Oil

• For vertical elements such as balustrades and pergolas
• Prevents drying out and discoloration

• Clean the terrace at least twice a year (spring and autumn)
• Use Osmo Terrace Cleaner for green deposits
• Check every year whether the wood needs to be treated again
• Do not use green soap or cleaning vinegar
• Treat with oil after cleaning for optimal protection

Our customer service team is happy to help you choose the right approach and products. Contact us or order your Osmo cleaning products directly online!