As summer draws to a close, many homeowners are noticing just how much their patios have been through over the past few months. Greasy BBQ stains, spilled drinks, slippery algae and stubborn black spots can all leave outdoor paving looking worse for wear, and with autumn on the way, now is a good time to give it a clean before the colder, wetter months arrive.
According to Billy Joe Jarvis, co-founder of patio paint supplier Premium Paints, some of the most effective patio cleaning solutions are cheap and may already be sitting in kitchen cupboards.
“Most people assume patio stains require industrial cleaners or expensive jet washing,” Billy explains. “But some everyday household products can be surprisingly effective when used correctly. The key is matching the right cleaner to the right stain type.”
Five household items for cleaning your patio
For stubborn black spots and general grime, a paste of baking soda and washing-up liquid can be scrubbed in with a stiff brush, left for 15 minutes, then rinsed off with warm water.
Leftover BBQ grease responds well to cola, thanks to its acidity. Pour it onto the stain, leave for around 30 minutes, then scrub and rinse.
White vinegar mixed with warm water can tackle algae and moss between paving slabs. Spray or pour it on, leave for 20 minutes, then scrub clean. Premium Paints advises avoiding vinegar on natural stone patios such as limestone or marble, as the acidity can cause damage.
Denture tablets, designed to lift stains, can also work well on smaller marked areas, corners or edging. Dissolve a couple in warm water, pour onto the stain and let it fizz before scrubbing lightly.
For fresh rust marks left by metal furniture or plant pots, a raw potato’s mild acid can help. Simply cut it in half and rub it directly onto the mark before rinsing.
Avoid pressure washers and harsh bleach
Premium Paints is also warning homeowners not to go overboard with pressure washers or harsh bleach when cleaning patios, as both can cause long-term damage.
“A lot of people think blasting a patio with a pressure washer or strong chemicals is the quickest fix,” Billy adds. “But it can actually wear the surface down over time. Too much pressure can wash away the jointing sand between slabs, while heavy bleach use can fade certain stones and strip away protective coatings.”
“For most everyday stains, simple household products are often enough to get the patio looking fresh again, especially if you catch the marks early.”
For more patio care advice, visit Premium Paints.
