A clean balcony can be a peaceful retreat, but exposure to the elements means it quickly accumulates dust, dirt, and grime, especially over winter. Learning how to clean a balcony and all its elements thoroughly will not only keep it looking fresh but also extend the life of your outdoor furniture and flooring.
Whether you’re dealing with city pollution, bird droppings, or seasonal pollen, a thorough balcony cleaning routine will help keep this peaceful outdoor space inviting year-round.
From cleaning your balcony's railings to taking care of the furniture, these top cleaning tips will have yours shining all season.
1. Clear the space
Before you start cleaning your balcony, remove all furniture, plants, and decorative items from the balcony. This makes it easier to reach every corner and prevents objects from getting damaged by water or cleaning products.
Wells Ye, founder of Fresh Tech Maid, says, 'To clean your balcony properly, a clear space is crucial. Begin by removing all furniture, plant pots, and other objects, discarding any that are damaged or have no use.'
If you have large or heavy furniture, move it to one side while you clean the other, then repeat the process on the remaining section.
Ye continues, 'Take this opportunity to shake any dust out of rugs and cushions, and give them a vacuum. A patio storage box can be a really good place to store them – not only while you clean your balcony, but also between uses, to keep them safe from the weather.'
With a sizable 30-gallon storage capacity, cleaning expert Wells Ye recommends this small storage box as ideal for balconies. Made from weather-resistant resin with an appealing wood-look texture, it's a perfect place to store cushions or throws between uses. It's also simple and quick to assemble, with no extra tools required.
2. Wipe down walls and railings
Balcony railings and walls are a key aspect of your balcony, especially if you want to light your balcony at night, but they can quickly begin to look dirty.
Ye says, 'Railings and walls collect dust, bird droppings, and environmental grime. Ignoring them not only affects aesthetics but also leads to gradual material deterioration.
'Begin by dusting thoroughly, then use a damp cloth or sponge with mild soap to wipe the walls or railings down. For tougher stains, a mixture of water and white vinegar can help break down the buildup. If you have metal railings, a rust-resistant spray is advised, or drying them after cleaning can also help to prevent rust from forming.'
Using the right tools, such as a Damp Duster from Amazon, is among the key tricks for keeping dust at bay.
Perfect for extending the life of untreated, bare metal items including tools, bicycles, lawn equipment, and balcony railings this spray's formula prevents corrosion by protecting against moisture and other elements.
This handy dusting kit includes three duster refills and an extendable handle for hard-to-reach spots. It comes with great customer reviews for use all around the home, from basement to balcony.
This large bottle of distilled white vinegar is perfect for household cleaning, including on balcony railings, or even for cleaning your shower head. It's distilled to a 5% acidity and is unscented, leaving a clean and pure finish.
3. Sweep away debris
Loose dirt, leaves, and dust can accumulate quickly, especially if your balcony is open to the elements. A sturdy broom is the first thing you'll need.
Ye says, 'Using a broom before mopping is important as it eliminates dust, leaves and debris, making the cleaning process more effective.
'Use a stiff-bristled broom to collect dust and debris into a pile, before disposing. If thick residue becomes a problem, try a powerful vacuum cleaner.'
The Bissell Featherweight Bagless Stick Vacuum from Wayfair is not only easy to hold and maneuver, but also comes with a handy crevice tool to get into those tricky balcony corners. The Loheer Handheld Cordless Vacuum from Walmart is another lightweight yet powerful option.
Ye adds, 'Try to incorporate a sweep of your balcony into your regular cleaning routine. Otherwise, gunk and dirt can build up, and your balcony may soon look more like a biohazard zone!'
Cleaning pro Wells Ye recommends this handy stiff-bristled broom and dust pan set, which snaps together for easy stand-up storage, saving space. Its built-in scraper and comb is great for getting at difficult debris, while the dustpan locks in open position to easily dispose of contents in the garbage can without spilling.
4. Wash the floor
Mopping the floor right is vital for balconies, but the best method for cleaning your balcony floor depends on the material.
Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning, says, 'For concrete, scrub with soapy water and a stiff brush. You can also use a pressure washer for deep cleaning. For wood, use a wood-safe cleaner and a damp mop. Avoid soaking the wood to prevent warping. For tile floors, mop with a vinegar-water mix to cut through grime.'
Toner recommends the BOOMJOY Floor Scrub Brush from Amazon – which has an extendable handle and scraper bar – for effective cleaning. A rubber squeegee, like this Great Value Squeegee from Walmart, can be handy to push excess water toward a drain or off the edge to speed up drying time. For vinyl or tiled surfaces, Ye recommends Quick Shine Multi-Surface Floor Cleaner, available in a pack of two from Amazon.
For stubborn stains, extra methods may be needed. Toner says, 'For bird droppings, a paste of baking soda and water works well on dried stains. For mold, scrub with white vinegar and water, or a specialized mold remover. For rust, apply a lemon juice and baking soda paste, let sit, then scrub.'
Arm and Hammer Baking Soda, available at Walmart, is a brand known for its quality, and we like the twist-top lid on this version making it easy to keep moisture out.
Cleaning pro Karina Toner recommends this pack of hardwood floor cleaner, which has an ergonomic nozzle spray designed to cover the floor in fewer sweeps and help avoid puddling. It also leaves a rich, almond fragrance.
5. Clean the furniture
Outdoor furniture is exposed to dust, rain, and sometimes even mildew, so regular cleaning is essential.
Wipe down metal or plastic furniture with warm, soapy water, and use a soft brush for textured surfaces. To clean outdoor cushions, check the care label – some covers can be removed and machine-washed, while others may need spot-cleaning with a gentle detergent.
Toner says, 'Remember that sunlight fades and wears out cushions, rugs, and curtains over time. Dust and allergens also build up in fabric materials.
'Rotate cushions and wash removable covers frequently, or pop them away in storage when not in use. Opting for UV-resistant fabrics or sprays can also help prevent fading, plus consider swapping in lighter, breathable textiles for spring.'
Though knowing how to wash couch cushions is important, it's the aftercare, that ensures that consistently fresh look.
Suitable for both indoor and outdoor furniture, professional cleaner Karina Toner recommends this two-pack of odorless fabric spray that both repels water and protects against UV rays.
Meet the experts
FAQs
How do I clean my balcony without making a mess for my downstairs neighbors?
If you live in an apartment, achieving balcony privacy might not be your only challenge. You may also wish to avoid excessive water dripping onto balconies below. Use a damp mop rather than a hose, and wipe down surfaces with a cloth instead of spraying them. Consider placing a towel along the balcony edge to catch any drips, and always notify neighbors if you’re doing a deep clean that might affect their space.
What's the best way to remove bird droppings from a balcony?
Bird droppings can be tough to remove, especially if they’ve dried. Start by soaking the area with warm, soapy water to loosen the debris, then gently scrub with a brush or sponge. A solution of equal parts water and vinegar can also help break down stubborn stains without damaging balcony surfaces.
How can I prevent dust from accumulating so quickly on my balcony?
Regular sweeping and wiping down surfaces can help, but placing outdoor rugs or mats can also reduce dust buildup. If possible, install weatherproof curtains or blinds to block out some of the airborne debris. Keeping plants on your balcony can also help trap dust particles and improve air quality in the space.
So there you have it – how to clean a balcony in five simple steps. Keeping your balcony clean doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With regular sweeping, wiping, and a deep clean every few weeks, your outdoor space will remain a pleasant and relaxing spot to enjoy fresh air.
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