Tennis Court Cleaning – Professional Softwash Guide

Tennis court cleaning is a profitable and repeat-service opportunity for professional softwash contractors. Proper maintenance keeps courts safe, consistent in appearance, and suitable for play year-round.

Moss, algae and other biological growth make surfaces slippery and visually inconsistent. On many courts — particularly those used for league or tournament play — uneven cleaning is unacceptable. The entire surface must present a consistent finish.

Types of Tennis Court Surfaces

Most non-grass courts fall into one of the following categories:

• Tarmac / macadam
• Acrylic painted courts
• Artificial grass (e.g. Tiger Turf)

Each requires a slightly different approach, but the principle remains the same: treat the biofilm, do not damage the surface.

Softwash Tennis Court Cleaning with Bio Cleanze

Bio Cleanze is the preferred treatment for non-grass tennis courts. It targets the underlying biofilm responsible for algae and moss growth rather than simply removing surface staining.

Recommended Dilution Rates

We do not recommend using Bio Cleanze stronger than 40:1 on tennis courts.

• Initial treatment (moderate growth): 30–40:1
• Maintenance treatment: 40:1

If children will be using the court, keep dilution at 40:1 and allow a natural rain shower before access as an added precaution.

Always carry out a small test patch first. This confirms compatibility, expected results and correct dilution ratio.

Application Method

1. Mechanically remove heavy moss using scrapers or a rotary sweeper fitted with a polypropylene brush (avoid stainless steel brushes, which can cause striping).
2. Blow away loose debris.
3. Lightly pressure wash if required (low pressure only).
4. Apply Bio Cleanze evenly using professional softwash equipment.

Thick moss must be fully saturated. Two lighter applications are often better than one heavy application.

Important: Tennis courts must be cleaned evenly. The only colour change should be the difference between treated and untreated areas. Spot treatments are unsuitable where courts are inspected for consistency prior to matches.

Fast Cosmetic Results – Lightning Cleanze Option

Where rapid visual improvement is required (e.g. before a tournament), Lightning Cleanze can be used at 5–10:1, followed by a light rinse.

Lightning Cleanze delivers near-instant visible improvement. However, it may lighten tarmac. Always carry out a test patch and obtain customer approval before full application.

Where time allows, Bio Cleanze remains the preferred long-term treatment due to its residual cleaning action.

How to Clean Artificial Grass Tennis Courts (Tiger Turf)

Artificial grass courts such as Tiger Turf are typically made from polypropylene or polyethylene. These materials are compatible with our treatments.

Bio Cleanze at 40:1 is generally sufficient for treatment. Apply evenly and allow natural weathering to complete the cleaning process.

As always, carry out a small test patch first — it confirms expected results and dilution accuracy.

Avoid aggressive pressure washing, as this can disturb infill and damage fibres.

How to Clean Acrylic Painted Tennis Courts

Acrylic painted courts benefit from a staged approach.

Pre-treat the full surface with Bio Cleanze at 40:1. Allow at least one week for natural breakdown of the biofilm.

If required for final cosmetic finish, follow with Lightning Cleanze at 10:1 and rinse lightly.

This reduces chemical use and improves overall consistency.

Ongoing Tennis Court Maintenance

After initial restoration, place the court on an annual maintenance programme.

Most courts require:

• One full treatment per year
• Localised treatments to shaded areas as needed

Regular maintenance prevents heavy moss build-up, reduces labour and ensures consistent playing conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you pressure wash a tennis court?

Yes — but only at low pressure. Excessive pressure can cause striping, surface damage and inconsistent colouring.

What is the safest way to remove moss from a tennis court?

Mechanically remove heavy moss first, then treat with Bio Cleanze at 30–40:1. Allow natural weathering to complete the process.

How long before the court can be used again?

When treated at 40:1, allow the surface to dry fully. Where children will be using the court, we recommend allowing a natural rain shower before access as an added precaution.

Will treatment change the colour of the court?

Bio Cleanze will not bleach the surface. Lightning Cleanze may lighten tarmac, so always test patch first.

We wish you every success in your softwashing business.

Team Benz