Thoroughly wet the surface to remove dirt and debris. This crucial first step prevents scratching and "etching" surface areas if detergents are allowed to dry.

Cleaning detergent with soap increases dwell time to effectively break down grime, mold, and mildew. If you prefer bleach, the right bleach is critical....not all bleaches are created equal. Fun Fact: Plants are safe from the above if watered generously before and after with clean water.

The appropriate pressure matters. Not too low, not too high depending on the surface area. Applying hot water during this process significantly improves cleaning.

Rinse early and often with hot water, especially if you're cleaning concrete, to keep dirt and debris from "settling" back into the surface area. Note, oil stains are just that- a stain from oil soaking into the concrete over time and often can't be completely removed.