In This Article
One of the most common questions we get at Sam's Softwash is "When should I have my house washed?" Unlike northern states where winter makes outdoor cleaning impossible, Florida's year-round mild weather means you can pressure wash any time - but some seasons are better than others.
Florida's Unique Seasonal Considerations
While Florida doesn't have dramatic seasonal changes, our climate does cycle through distinct patterns that affect exterior cleaning:
- Pollen season: February through May coats everything in yellow-green dust
- Rainy season: June through September brings daily afternoon storms
- Hurricane season: June 1 through November 30
- Dry season: October through May with lower humidity
- Tourist/snowbird season: November through April
Each of these affects when and why you might want to schedule cleaning.
Spring: Post-Pollen Cleaning (April-May)
Best for: Removing pollen buildup, clearing winter mold growth
Why Spring Works Well
After Florida's pollen season ends in late April or early May, your home is likely covered in a sticky layer of yellow-green residue. This is an excellent time to clean because:
- Pollen season has passed, so your clean home stays clean longer
- Any mold that grew over winter can be eliminated
- Weather is still mild before summer heat arrives
- Gets your home ready for summer outdoor activities
Spring Timing Tip
Wait until late April or early May. Cleaning in March means your home gets re-coated with pollen within weeks.
Summer: Hurricane Prep (June-August)
Best for: Pre-storm inspection, clearing debris
Summer Considerations
Summer in Florida means daily afternoon thunderstorms and the start of hurricane season. While summer cleaning works, there are some considerations:
- Pros: Good time for hurricane preparation cleaning
- Cons: Afternoon storms can interrupt service
- Cons: High humidity means mold regrows faster
Hurricane Prep Cleaning
Before a storm, clean gutters and drains should be clear. Post-storm, professional cleaning can remove debris, salt spray, and storm residue.
"We always recommend scheduling summer cleanings in the morning hours. By 2-3 PM, the afternoon storms roll in, so early appointments are key."
Fall: Pre-Holiday Curb Appeal (October-November)
Best for: Preparing for visitors, maximizing curb appeal
Why Fall is Popular
Fall is our busiest season, and for good reason:
- Hurricane season is ending, meaning less risk of storms
- Humidity drops, so your home stays clean longer
- Perfect timing for Thanksgiving and holiday visitors
- Snowbird season is starting - great time if you're renting your property
- Listing your home? Fall cleaning maximizes curb appeal
Fall Timing Tip
October and early November book up fast. Schedule at least 2-3 weeks in advance during this popular period.
Winter: Mild Weather Advantage (December-February)
Best for: Taking advantage of low humidity, flexible scheduling
Winter Benefits
Florida's "winter" is actually an excellent time for exterior cleaning:
- Lowest humidity: Mold and algae grow slowest this time of year
- Longer-lasting results: Clean surfaces stay clean longer
- Easier scheduling: Less competition for appointments
- Perfect weather: Mild temps, little rain
Winter Timing Tip
January and February offer the best combination of low humidity and pre-pollen timing. Clean in February, and you'll be ready before pollen season hits.
How Often to Schedule Service
Based on Florida's climate and our experience cleaning homes throughout Walton County, here are our recommendations:
Annual (Minimum)
Every Florida home should be professionally cleaned at least once per year. This maintains appearance and prevents damage from biological growth.
Twice Yearly (Recommended)
For best results, we recommend cleaning twice yearly:
- Spring (May): After pollen season
- Fall (October/November): Before the holidays
More Frequent (Problem Properties)
Some homes need more frequent cleaning:
- Heavily shaded properties
- Homes near water
- Properties with lots of trees
- Light-colored siding that shows dirt
See our Florida mold prevention guide for more on cleaning frequency.
Ready to Schedule?
No matter what time of year, Sam's Softwash is here to help. We work around Florida's weather and your schedule to deliver great results.
Contact us for a free quote and let us know when works best for you. We serve Choctaw Beach, Santa Rosa Beach, Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, and all of Walton County.