As spring arrives, many homeowners are eager to refresh their outdoor spaces and make the most of warmer days. But a clean, well-maintained patio isn’t just about aesthetics – it’s about preserving your outdoor space for years to come.
From removing debris regularly to sealing the surface, knowing how to clean a patio will maintain its function and beauty, ensuring it's a space you and your family can fully enjoy. These are the five things people with clean patios always do, and how you can enjoy the same benefits.
1. Sweep regularly
Spring breezes can bring plenty of dust, pollen, and fallen petals onto patios, making them look unkempt while also creating a breeding ground for mold and mildew.
Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning, says, 'People with clean patios regularly sweep to prevent buildup and keep the surface clean. Use a stiff-bristled outdoor broom to sweep your patio at least once a week.
'For stubborn dirt, hose it down and use a push broom for a deeper clean. I like the O-Cedar Angle Broom, available from Amazon, – it's a heavy-duty broom with firm bristles that make clearing dirt and debris easy.'
This sturdy, stiff-bristled broom is ideal for keeping dirty, debris and leaves off your patio. With a width of 18 inches, it sweeps a large area at a time, and its pole length can be adjusted to suit your height, sparing any back pain.
2. Wash monthly
Even with frequent sweeping, dirt and stains can cling to patio surfaces over time. A monthly wash with a garden hose or pressure washer helps remove grime, mold, and any lingering spills.
Lina DaSilva, founder of Toronto Shine Cleaning, says, 'Power washing monthly removes grime and mildew before it can set in. Just remember not to hold the sprayer too close – start at least 12 inches away to prevent chipping or etching.'
Other tips for pressure washing a patio include starting on a low pressure setting and testing the cleaning solution first. You can still clean patio pavers without a pressure washer, but investing in one will be money well spent as they are versatile and wipe out much of the elbow grease needed otherwise.
With a lightweight, four-wheeled design and a 20-foot thermoplastic hose, this bestselling pressure washer is easy to maneuver and get that patio sparkling. A 0.5 gallon onboard soap applicator and turbo option for extra power also make cleaning easy. Plus, a two-year warranty provides added peace of mind.
3. Protect furniture
Outdoor furniture takes a beating from sun exposure, rain, and dust, which can lead to faded colors, mold growth, and rust.
Wells Ye, founder of Fresh Tech Maid, says, 'Regularly cleaning your patio furniture protects it from rust and pests, plus ensures your cushions, throws and pillows retain their comfort.
'To keep your furniture clean, regularly wipe down to remove dirt, dust, and other debris. Vacuum seats thoroughly and use a chemical-free cleaner for the surfaces. Most importantly, cover the furniture in extreme weather conditions to prevent fading and mold growth.'
As spring showers become more frequent, consider applying a UV-resistant spray to fabric cushions, such as Scotchgard UV Water & Sun Shield Fabric Protective Spray from Walmart, which is ideal for most patio furniture including umbrellas, grill covers, tarps, flags and awnings.
Wells Ye recommends this eco-friendly, non-toxic spray, which protects your furniture from spills, dirt, and pet accidents with an invisible, odor-free shield that repels liquids, oils, and more for up to two years. It's gentle on delicate fabrics like lace and suede, and effective on leather, chenille, microfiber, and most outdoor furniture materials.
4. Keep weeds at bay
Springtime growth doesn’t just apply to flowers – unwanted weeds can quickly take over your patio’s cracks and crevices.
Toner says, 'Weeds growing between patio pavers or cracks not only look messy but can also cause long-term damage by pushing stones apart. Moss can make surfaces slippery.
'To avoid this, pull weeds manually or use a natural weed killer. For moss, mix equal parts white vinegar and water, spray on affected areas, and scrub with a stiff brush.'
Regularly checking for and removing weeds before they take root prevents them from spreading.
Karina Toner recommends this strong but natural weed killer as an effective way to keep weeds off your patio, without the need for harmful chemicals. Derived from corn and approved for organic use, this spray is powerful enough to kill dandelions, crabgrass and other annual or perennial weeds.
5. Seal surfaces
Sealing your patio helps protect it from stains, moisture damage, and UV exposure, which can cause discoloration and cracks over time.
Concrete and stone patios benefit from a sealant every couple of years, while wooden decks require resealing more frequently. Sealing is also a key step for getting rid of moss on a patio.
DaSilva says, 'Sealing the patio surface is key to protect against stains and weather damage. Sealing creates a barrier against moisture and dirt, preventing cracks and fading over time.'
Spring is an ideal time to check if your patio needs resealing – after months of winter weather, a fresh coat of sealant can restore its appearance and prepare it for summer entertaining.
DaSilva recommends this versatile sealant for poured concrete, broom-finished concrete, stamped concrete, and concrete pavers. She says, 'This is my top choice for concrete patios. It enhances color while providing protection. Always clean the surface first, apply with a roller, and let it dry completely before walking on it.'
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FAQs
How do I remove stubborn stains from my patio?
For tough stains like grease, rust, or mildew, use a cleaning solution suited to your patio material. A mix of baking soda and water works for general stains, while white vinegar can help break down mold and algae. Arm and Hammer Baking Soda, available at Walmart, is a reliable brand known for its quality. For oil stains, sprinkle cat litter or baking soda over the spot, let it sit, and then scrub with dish soap and warm water. Always test cleaners on a small area first to avoid damage.
What's the best way to keep my garden furniture clean?
Regularly wipe down furniture with mild soap and water to remove dirt, pollen, and bird droppings. Store cushions indoors when not in use or invest in weatherproof covers to protect them from rain and sun damage. If your furniture has developed mold or mildew, a mix of equal parts vinegar and water can help kill spores and prevent regrowth. Great Value Distilled White Vinegar from Walmart is a highly effective and reliable brand.
How often should I reseal my patio?
The frequency of resealing depends on the material. Concrete and stone patios generally need resealing every two to three years, while wood decks often require a fresh coat annually. If water no longer beads on the surface or the color has started to fade, it’s time to reapply a sealant. Regular sealing extends the life of your patio and makes it more resistant to weathering.
So there you have it – five things people with clean patios always do. Maintaining a clean outdoor space doesn’t require constant scrubbing, but it does involve consistent care. Implement these habits, and your patio will remain a welcoming, enjoyable retreat all season long.
Next, check out what not to use when cleaning your patio, and these other common patio mistakes to avoid.
