Step 1
Prepare the deck for the stripper by sweeping it with a broom and dustpan to remove dirt and debris.
Step 2
Pour 4 cups of washing soda into a bucket. Add enough water to make a paste the consistency of cake frosting. Stir the two ingredients together with a wooden spoon.
Step 3
Wear rubber gloves to spread the deck stripping paste onto the wood or can use a spatula to spread it over the surface instead. Cover the entire deck surface.
Step 4
Leave the deck stripping paste on the surface of your deck for six hours. Fill a spray bottle with water and mist the paste as needed to keep it moist the entire time.
Step 5
Scrape the old deck stain from the deck with a scraper. Once you've scraped off the majority of deck stripper, use a nylon scrub brush to get into any grooves or crevices in the wood.
Step 6
Rinse the deck with a bucket filled with solution made from 1/2 gallon white vinegar and 1 quart water. Scrub the surface to remove residue from the homemade deck stripper.
Step 7
Dry the deck with cleaning rags. Allow it to air-dry for 24 hours before applying paint, sealant or deck stain.