Patios get dirty over the winter months due to exposure to the weather. The build-up of green algae and moss is also common and not only does it look unsightly but it can also make surfaces a slip hazard. It’s recommended to clean a patio once a year and February is a great month to do so.
There are many ways to clean a patio, including using a pressure washer and natural cleaning solutions such as white vinegar. However, these can be quite harsh over time and lead to other problems. Experts have shared an alternative, effective method which uses a product every household has.
Read more: ‘Effective’ method to deter cats from your garden for good
Read more: ‘I’m a plant expert – here’s 3 houseplants for every room in the home’
Georgina Read, lead expert at Paving Superstore, said: “A light clean can refresh after the winter months, and February is the ideal time to do this gently rather than aggressively. A stiff brush with warm water and washing-up liquid is often all that’s needed to lift dirt and grime.”
Pressure washing should be avoided in freezing or near-freezing conditions, as this can loosen joints and damage paving.
Hard, acid-based cleaning products should also be avoided as they can weaken the patio surface and shorten its lifespan.
The Royal Horticultural Society also recommended ditching chemicals and using a pressure washer. This is because it may damage loose stones and can cause waterlogging.
According to Beesley & Fildes, one of the “most effective” patio cleaning products is washing-up liquid with warm tap water.
The cleaning hack is super simple, and it costs no more than 10p per clean.
Start by squirting a little liquid into the base of a bucket, then fill it with warm water. Then, starting from the corners, splash a little water, grab a hard-bristled brush and scrub.
The dirt and debris should be visible as soon as you start scrubbing. Repeat the splashing and scrubbing routine until the patio is covered.
Finally, clear the dirty water away with a bucket of clean water so that it flows into the drains. Leave it to dry before putting your furniture and plant pots back on.