Clinker bricks - What is the best way to clean them?

Hello everyone. I wanted to properly clean the bricks before I start pointing. I talked to the bricklayer from the neighboring construction site and asked him what he used to clean the bricks. He used a pressure washer with vinegar and oil. Can I really use that or should I better use soft soap?

Hello, under no circumstances use vinegar or oil, if anything use soft soap and a brush, not a wire brush. Dissolve the soft soap in hot water and apply it with the brush, let it sit for a few minutes and make sure it does not dry. Rinse thoroughly with plenty of water and always work from top to bottom. If you have grouted the stones, you can also apply a sealant; this enhances the color and inhibits dirt. If it is genuine clinker bricks, you do not necessarily have to seal. When grouting, make sure to work cleanly so that no small gaps form.

Thank you very much for the reply. How can I clean stubborn dirt? A few spots unfortunately still have food residues. Can I scrape them off with something? The facing bricks are smooth anthracite.