How to Clean Your Outdoor Areas
by
Linda Cleans
28 Mar 2024
CLEANING YOUR PATIO
- Cleaning your patio can be an easy task if you follow these steps:
- Remove any furniture or large objects from the patio surface.
- Sweep the entire area to remove loose dirt, leaves, and debris.
- Mix a solution of warm water and mild dish soap in a bucket or use our patio cleaner that's appropriate for your patio material.
- Wet the patio surface with a hose or watering can.
- Dip a stiff bristle brush or deck scrub into the water solution and scrub the entire patio surface. Pay extra attention to any heavily soiled areas or stains.
- Rinse the patio with clean water using a hose or watering can. Make sure to remove all soap residue.
- For particularly stubborn stains, you can use a dedicated patio stain remover or a mixture of white vinegar and water. Apply the solution directly to the stain, let it soak for a few minutes, then scrub with a brush and rinse thoroughly.
- If you have a concrete patio, you may want to consider using a pressure washer for a more thorough cleaning. However, be cautious as pressure washers can damage certain materials, so make sure to follow the manufacturer's guidelines and adjust the pressure accordingly.
- Once the patio is clean and dry, you can put back any furniture or objects you removed earlier.
CLEANING YOUR ARTIFICIAL GRASS
- Cleaning artificial grass is a relatively simple process. Here's how you can do it:
- Remove any large debris such as leaves, twigs, or pet waste from the artificial grass using a leaf blower or a rake.
- Mix a solution of warm water and mild detergent or artificial grass cleaner in a bucket. Make sure to follow the instructions on the cleaner bottle for the correct dilution ratio.
- Wet the artificial grass with a hose to remove any loose dirt or dust.
- Apply the soapy solution to the entire area using a soft-bristle brush, broom, or rake. Make sure to scrub gently to avoid damaging the artificial grass fibres.
- Pay extra attention to any stains or heavily soiled areas. If necessary, use a scrub brush to agitate the cleaner into the stain.
- Let the cleaner sit on the grass for a few minutes to absorb dirt and odours.
- Rinse the artificial grass thoroughly with clean water, either using a hose or watering can. Ensure that all the soap residue is completely removed.
- Allow the artificial grass to air dry. Avoid walking on it until it is completely dry to prevent damaging the fibres.
- Regular maintenance for artificial grass includes brushing the grass with a stiff broom or a special artificial grass brush to keep the fibres upright and prevent matting. It's also essential to keep the grass clear of debris to maintain its appearance and drainage capabilities.
CLEANING YOUR DECKING
- Cleaning your decking can help maintain its appearance and longevity. Here's how to clean your decking:
- Remove any furniture, pots, or other items from the deck so you have a clear surface to work with. Sweep away any loose dirt, leaves, or debris using a broom.
- Mix warm water and mild dish soap or a specialised deck cleaner in a bucket. Follow the instructions on the deck cleaner label for the correct dilution ratio if using one. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals as they can damage the wood.
- Wet the deck surface with a hose or watering can. Then, use a soft-bristle brush or a deck brush to apply the cleaning solution to the deck surface. Scrub the deck in the direction of the wood grain to remove dirt, stains, and mildew.
- If there are any stubborn stains or discolouration, you can make a paste with baking soda and water or use a deck stain remover. Apply the paste or stain remover to the affected area and scrub gently with the brush.
- Once you have scrubbed the entire deck, rinse it thoroughly with clean water. Use a hose or pressure washer on a low setting to remove any soap residue and dirt. Make sure to rinse the deck completely, including the spaces between the deck boards.
- Let the deck air dry completely before placing any furniture or objects back on it. This will prevent moisture from getting trapped and potentially causing damage to the wood.
- Depending on the type of wood your deck is made of, you may choose to apply a protective finish like a deck stain or sealer. This can help protect the wood from moisture, UV rays, and other elements. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application and drying time.
- Regularly maintaining your deck by cleaning and refinishing it as needed will help prolong its life and keep it looking its best.