Q: I have algae growing on an exterior surface of my home and was wondering if I can remove it using a combination of Tide® Laundry Detergent and bleach.

A: Unfortunately, we have never studied the combination of Tide® Laundry Detergent and Clorox® Regular-Bleach as an effective and safe way to remove algae from exterior surfaces. I would recommend that you contact the manufacturers of Tide® Laundry Detergent to determine whether it is safe for outside use as runoff could negatively interact with plants and animals. In regards to Clorox® Regular-Bleach, it is an EPA-registered disinfectant and is an approved and safe product to help eliminate moss, mold and mildew from outdoor siding, tile, brick, stucco and patio stone. Below is information on how to use Clorox® Regular-Bleach to remove patio moss, mildew stains and exterior mold: