8 Best Moss Killer Reviews – Get Rid Of Moss Without Much Fuss
Nothing says the place is badly maintained like moss. The slimy green growth tends to cover walls, structures, and even living trees. Anywhere there’s constant moisture and high humidity, you’ll find moss. And it’s not like it’s easy to get rid of or scrape off the damp surfaces either. Moss has an uncanny ability to grow back and spread when you thought it was gone forever.
If you have a moss problem then moss killer sounds like the right solution for you. Not only does it kill moss right then and there, but it also makes it easier for you to scrape off the debris so that the fungal growth will not return bigger and more powerful than before.
But now you’re faced with the eternal question, which is the best moss killer? At first glance, all the products in the market seem to have the same features. But take a closer look under the hood and you’ll see a wide variety of differences. So we put some of those top moss killers to the test. Some moss killers passed with flying colors while others failed. The list below has the best moss killer reviews with in-depth and detailed coverage of their strong points and flaws.
Best Moss Killer Reviews
1. Wet & Forget Roof and Siding Cleaner for Easy Removal of Mold
It’s not easy to find a moss killer that works both indoors and outdoors, on the ground and the roof, and kills moss within 24 hours straight. Yet that’s exactly what Wet & Forget Roof and Siding Cleaner for Easy Removal of Mold does. The cleaner has a patented formula that is designed specifically for all types of mold that grow on the walls and ceilings in homes with high humidity and warm temperatures.
And that’s not all. With this cleaner, you can go through an entire house, driveway, deck, and patio along with their roofs with just one bottle. The bottle itself comes with a nozzle ready to use out of the box. It covers about 30 feet in radius with its high-pressure spray. This means you won’t have to climb on ladders to reach that molded spot on the roof or the corner of the ceiling where a huge patch of algae has mushroomed.
Apart from its ease of use, Wet & Forget lives up to its name of not leaving behind stains or streaks on the surfaces. Whether it’s a wall or a roof or even shingles, the liquid tends to dry up without a trace leaving the dead mold behind to scrape off cleanly. That’s because the patented formula doesn’t contain acid or bleach which makes it safe to spray on any surface.
Despite the simple concept and convenient design of the cleaner, it has its flaws. The dial which controls the flow of water tends to unscrew the hose when you turn it. Another problem we had was with the spray tip. It doesn’t fit securely to the nozzle and might shoot out with the spray.
Pros
- Spray pressure covers 30 feet distance.
- One bottle covers 2000 square feet.
- Easy to use out of the box.
- A patented formula that kills mold in 24 hours.
- Doesn’t leave stains or marks on the surfaces.
- Ideal for indoors and outdoors and different surfaces.
Cons
- The spray tip doesn’t secure tightly on the nozzle.
- Turning the dial also unscrews the hose.
2. 30 SECONDS Spray & Walk Away
If there’s one thing we have learned from testing and reviewing so many products in different niches it’s that low price doesn’t always mean low quality. And the opposite is true. Not all products with a high price tag are guaranteed to be the best in the market. And 30 SECONDS Spray & Walk Away is a good example of an inexpensive mold killer that delivers on all its promises.
The first promise is to kill moss quickly and efficiently. And here 30 Seconds was able to eliminate not just moss but lichen, algae, and mold as well. While it will not really kill the fungus in 30 seconds, it tends to remove all traces of green and dark discolorations on the walls, floors, and ceilings in a fairly short time.
Moreover, due to the patented formula that acts quickly on the fungus, you won’t have to scrub, scrape off, or even have to rinse the dead moss. After the fungus is dead and the liquid dries out, all traces of the green and dark patches simply vanish on their own. This saves you the trouble of scrubbing large areas especially if you don’t have access to them. For example, it is not easy to reach all the nooks and crannies of an attic, so spraying with 30 Seconds makes it easier to get rid of the moss and mold buildup without the extra hassle of scraping off the dead fungus afterward.
The one-gallon container of 30 Seconds can cover an area between 750 and 2250 square feet. And since the formula doesn’t have phosphates or bleach and is pH neutral, you won’t have to worry about leftover stains or marks.
On the downside, the moss killer is not safe to use near plants in the garden. Even the grass in the lawn tends to lose its color if the spray reaches it.
Pros
- Low price tag.
- Kills moss, algae, mold, and lichen.
- Doesn’t require scrubbing, rinsing, or hosing off afterward.
- One gallon has a coverage area between 750 and 2250 square feet.
- Acts quickly and the green and dark patches disappear fast.
- The formula is pH neutral and free from phosphate and bleach.
Cons
- The spray tends to impact the grass and any plants it comes in contact with.
3. BioAdvanced 704710B Moss and Algae Killer
When you have mold, moss, or algae on your property, not only do you want to kill it dead but also get rid of it without having to clean after. And that’s what BioAdvanced 704710B Moss and Algae Killer are good at. It kills the fungus and prevents it from growing back. The result is a clean surface with all traces of the moss or mold buildup gone.
But that’s not all this liquid moss killer has to do. It also keeps the sprayed area moss-free for months afterward. By preventing the fungus from growing back, you won’t have to worry about excessive rainfall and high humidity triggering mold infestations.
BioAdvanced also works on different surfaces both indoors and outdoors. You can use it on decks, gazebos, tree trunks, and the shed as much as you’d safely use it inside the house. And since the patented formula has a swift action on the fungus, the results appear within hours of spraying the infected area. First, the green color fades, then a few days later, the fungus dies and you can remove it with a brush.
It doesn’t contain bleach so it’s safe to use on lawns where it will have little impact on the grass and other vegetation. Moreover, the 32-ounce container can cover an area of 500 square feet.
That said, BioAdvanced comes with a steep price tag attached. The sprayer is a little hard to use and the included manual doesn’t simplify the process either. The dead mold is not easy to remove and you have to scrub it hard off the surface.
Pros
- Kills all types of fungus and prevents buildup.
- Acts quickly within hours after application.
- Bleach-free and has little impact on the surrounding plants and grass.
- Keeps surfaces clean for months after spraying.
Cons
- High price tag.
- The sprayer is hard to operate.
- You have to scrub off the dead moss yourself.
4. Lilly Miller Moss Out for Lawns Ready to Spray
You might have noticed that we have been focussing so far on liquid moss killers. That’s because they’re more convenient to use and do a fast job than the granular moss killers. And Lilly Miller Moss Out for Lawns Ready to Spray clearly brings this advantage to the forefront. With a patented formula that is designed for lawns and the outdoors, the moss killer targets the moss growing at the base of walls, tree trunks, and on large spots of the lawn and garden. And since it only impacts the moss, the soil is left healthy and clean for plants and grass to grow back with no downtime.
Lilly Miller Moss Out takes convenience to a new level by allowing you to attach the container to your garden hose. This not only gives you wider coverage but also takes the hassle out of finding the right hose or fiddling with the sprayer.
Moss Out also has a fast action formula that gives good results within hours after application. And since it has iron supplements, the spray actually helps the grass grow back in the thin patches. So it has a dual effect on the area that you spray. The moss killer doesn’t need mixing with water either. You just attach the hose and start spraying. It’s a convenient and easy-to-use moss killer for moss growing on the lawn and the humid corners of your garden.
But since Moss Out is designed specifically for lawns, it will not work on moss or mold buildups in other settings. You can’t use it indoors for example or on the roof. It doesn’t have the same effect on other types of fungus such as algae and lichen.
Pros
- Works fast within hours with good results.
- Removes moss in the lawn and allows grass to grow back quickly.
- It Attaches to the garden hose for convenience.
- Has iron supplements to boost grass growth.
Cons
- It works only on moss on the lawn.
- You have to scrape off the dead moss yourself.
5. Scotts MossEx Easy-To-Use Shaker Jug
Scotts is an established brand in the gardening and home improvement niche. This is why we have two entries on this list from this brand. The first is Scotts MossEx Easy-To-Use Shaker Jug. It’s also the first granular moss killer we cover here. However, you won’t need a spreader nor will you even need to touch the granules with your hand.
The MossEx Shaker is exactly what it advertises itself to be. It’s a jug with a lid that helps you spread the moss killer granules without touching them. Just give the jug a good shake then open the lid all the way to the end forming a ledge. Now tilt over the jug and shake the granules out of it where the patterns on the lid send them in different directions.
Besides killing moss on the lawn, MosseEx also is packed with nutrients that help the grass grow back faster. This dual-action gives MossEx an edge on other moss killers. This is why it’s recommended that you mow the lawn first and cut the tall grass before applying the granules. This allows the nutrients to reach the small grass faster and trigger new growth.
That said, MossEx is definitely not for treating large patches of moss. Rather, it’s suitable for small areas that are easily accessible on your lawn. And although it doesn’t require mixing with water, you should apply it to wet grass to get the best results. If you try to water the lawn after applying the granules, they will get diluted and move away from the infected area.
Pros
- Easy to use jug of granular moss killer.
- Packed with nutrients to help the grass grow back faster.
- Spreads the granules easily without the need for a spreader.
- Doesn’t require mixing with water.
Cons
- Suitable only for small spots.
- Needs to be applied to wet grass.
6. Scotts 3-in-1 Moss Control Ready-Spray
The second moss killer from Scotts is Scotts 3-in-1 Moss Control Ready-Spray. Unlike the MossEx, this one comes in liquid form and is ready to spray out of the box. It’s also a versatile product that you can use on the roof, on the lawn, to spray the patio, or indoors as well. It doesn’t leave stains on the surfaces it comes in contact with. Even if you spray it on concrete which easily stains, it will dry out without a trace.
Scotts 3-in-1 has a versatile effect on different fungus. It mainly targets the three most common fungi that target lawns and homes. Namely, it kills algae, moss, and lichens. The results usually appear within a few hours after applying the spray. And to reach far spots you can attach the garden hose to the container, give it a good shake and start spraying. The material will mix with the water and reach the root of the house, the top of the shed, or wherever moss grows.
The sprayer that comes with the Scotts 3-in-1 can be problematic sometimes. For one thing, it takes some maneuvering to adjust the amount of moss killer that comes out of the container. However, you’ll need to have a strong stream of water in order to pull the material out. So you might end up diluting the material and using the garden sprayer instead.
Pros
- A 3-in-1 product that targets moss, algae, and lichen.
- It works on many surfaces including the roof, lawn, and indoors.
- Has a fast effect and results appear within hours.
- Doesn’t leave stains on concrete.
Cons
- The sprayer doesn’t work well and doesn’t dispense the liquid effectively.
7. Lilly Miller Brands 27Oz Moss Out Roofs 9603091
We all know how messy spraying the roof can get. If you have moss growing on the north side of your roof, then getting rid of the patches on the roof and shingles can be a daunting task. But Lilly Miller Brands 27Oz Moss Out Roofs 9603091 makes this whole process a breeze. All you need to do is attach the container to the garden hose and aim for the shingles. You won’t even have to climb a ladder to get close to the moss. It’s enough to aim in the general direction of the infected patch and let Lilly Miller do the rest.
What this means for you is that you can spray the moss killer and get the job done in a short time without any hassle. Now, this product works slowly but surely on the moss. So for the first few days, it will appear as if nothing has changed. But then the moss will lose its green color and turn black. Then within a few months, it will be gone.
Now it might seem that the product takes a long time to work. But there’s an advantage to that. It also stays effective for longer than other products. The sprayed spot will remain moss-free for months without the need to spray it over and over again.
The one drawback we had with Lilly Miller is that the moss needs to be scraped off the surface once it’s dead. Since it takes time for the moss to die, you’ll have to be patient. Reaching for moss on the roof can be challenging.
Pros
- Easy to spray and reach roofs and shingles.
- Has a lasting effect and prevents moss from growing back.
- Easy to attach to the garden hose.
Cons
- You have to scrape off dead fungus.
8. Moss Out Roofs & Walks
And last but least, Moss Out Roofs & Walks offers a versatile spray that works well on roofs, paths, driveways, and patios. The non-stain formula allows you to spray it on any surface without worrying about having to scrub it off later.
The 27-ounce container is highly concentrated and you’ll need to dilute it in water, fill up a garden spray and apply it on the infected patches. Although this might seem like a lot of work, it actually gives you more control over how strong you want the spray to be.
You can also mix as much moss killer as you need. If you have a small patch, then dilute enough of the material accordingly. So in a way, this is more economical than a ready-to-use spray.
Pros
- A colorless liquid that doesn’t leave stains.
- Works on different surfaces from the roof to the driveways.
- A concentrated liquid.
Cons
- Requires diluting and spraying.
Moss Killer Buying Guide
The above best moss killer reviews detail the best features and drawbacks of each product. But are all those features important? Do they really matter to you and fulfill your specific needs? That’s what the moss killer buying guide is for. It gives you a clear idea of what moss killers are, why you need them, and the different types available. We also added a section to show you how to use a moss killer regardless of its type.
Why You Need Moss Killer
Apart from the obvious answer that having moss on your walls can be detrimental to their structure, a moss killer gets rid of moss, mold, and algae in an efficient way. For example, when you see moss in your lawn or garden, your first impulse is to rake it. But that doesn’t eliminate the stubborn fungus. On the contrary. When you rake it, you’re actually spreading it to other parts of your property. One strand or filament of moss has enough spores to start a whole colony of fungi.
The only way you can remove moss once and for all is when it’s dead. You have to kill the green growth first then erase the last traces of it to prevent it from coming back. And a moss killer does the first part rather well. It stops the fungus in its tracks and prevents its spreading. Then all you have to do is remove the debris and dispose of them safely by burning them. If you live in a humid area or you have a place on your lawn that’s always moist, you’re at risk of moss attack. And moss killer can keep your property clean and moss-free.
Types of Moss Killer
If you have used fertilizer in your garden before, then you’re already aware that it comes in either liquid or granular form. Moss killer is similar to fertilizers in that way. It comes in two varieties: solid state, and liquid. Let’s take a look at each type and why you should use one over the other.
- Granular Type: The tiny granules of moss killer come in bags and are easy to spread. You can either spread them by hand (using gloves) or use a machine to do it. Depending on how large the moss infection is, you might want to use your hand for a more efficient application. Granular moss killers are soluble in water so you have the option to dilute them in water and spray the liquid on the moss patch. The only drawback to this type is that it tends to leave stains and streaks on metal surfaces. So don’t apply it on the rooftop or on shingles.
- Liquid Type: This type comes in jugs and sprays cans for easy application. It’s suitable for all surfaces both vertical and horizontal. You can use it on walls, roofs, tree stumps, and metal pipes. It doesn’t leave a stain and is easily absorbed by most surfaces. On the roof, it will dry out without smearing the surface. Some liquid moss killers are specifically designed for the roof and metal surfaces. Others are more geared up toward lawns and gardens and have plant food supplements added in for good measure. While liquid moss killers are more convenient and easier to apply, you have to be careful with the spray. It might endanger any plants in the vicinity, and you should always wear a mask before spraying the chemical substance.
Moss Killer Application
With all of these moss types and different uses, applying moss killers can be a little challenging. How you spread granular moss killers is different from spraying the liquid ones. Also, the roof-oriented liquid sprays have a different way to use than those geared toward the ground and low surfaces.
With that in mind, we put together this manual to help you apply moss killers in a safe and easy way.
- Regardless of what type of moss killer you’re using, always wear protective gear before you touch the stuff. This includes eyewear, gloves, and long clothes that cover your arms and legs. You shouldn’t let the chemical come in contact with your skin.
- Keep children and pets away while spraying liquid moss killers.
- Don’t allow pets to roam into an area where granular moss killer has been applied.
- Before applying the chemical, rake the moss thoroughly. You can use a powered lawn rake to save yourself a lot of trouble and blisters.
- Apply the moss killer after raking the moss and go and check on it two weeks later. You’ll find the moss has turned black.
- Rake the dead moss once more and come at it from different directions. If you see spots still looking green, apply the moss killer then remove them.
Moss Killer FAQs
How environmentally safe is moss killer?
While chemical products tend to have a certain amount of risk on the environment, these moss killers on these best moss killer reviews are biodegradable. That means, they will not have a lasting impact on the soil or the plants around them. Once the chemicals have broken down, you can grow plants in that spot without having to replace the soil.
That said, you shouldn’t expose yourself or any pets or children to chemical products. Even if the package says it’s safe to use around them. The last thing you’d want is some rash or allergic reaction to the chemicals in the moss killer.
Will weed killer do the same job as moss killer?
Like most living growths, there are many ways to combat moss. Most household chemicals such as detergents and bleach have adverse effects on the fungus. But just because these materials are effective, doesn’t mean you should use them. Consider for example the impact of bleach on the soil and how it would kill every living plant around that spot. The same applies to weed killers. While they might kill moss, there’s no guarantee that the moss will not come back. Moss killers are designed specifically for moss, mold, and algae and have a higher success rate in eliminating them than weed killers.
How often do I need to apply it?
The answer to that question depends on how large the moss patch is. Most moss killers need on average a couple of weeks to take effect. You can monitor the progress of the material as the moss turns from green to black. Black moss is dead moss that is ready for removal.
However, sometimes not all moss dies at the same time. So you might have to apply the moss killer again after two weeks. Keep applying until all the moss is dead. You might also have to come back a few months later to see if any traces of the fungal growth are there. In that case, apply one last time to eliminate the spores.
The Last Word
After setting the criteria for selecting the top moss killer products, it became clear that Wet & Forget Roof and Siding Cleaner for Easy Removal of Mold is the top choice and deserves our editor’s award. It has a high spray pressure that covers a 30-foot radius. This allows you to spray the roof and inaccessible places with ease. The patented formula works fast on the moss and kills it within 24 hours after application. The liquid moss killer comes ready to use out of the box and works both indoors and outdoors.
For the best value, we chose 30 SECONDS Spray & Walk Away. It works efficiently on moss, algae, lichen, and mold. The spray also kills the fungus and cleans after itself without the need to scrub or scrape off the dead moss. It has a patented formula that is bleach and phosphate-free and also pH neutral. It doesn’t leave stains behind and keeps moss from building up again for months after each application.
Finally, BioAdvanced 704710B Moss and Algae Killer made the cut and deserved our Premium Pick award. It has a fast-action formula that works on different types of fungi and works on most surfaces. You can use it on the patio, deck, gazebo, roof, shed, and inside the house. It doesn’t leave stains behind and is safe to use near plants and vegetation.