Patios can pick up dirt, grime and moss over the winter months, with moss posing a slip hazard. Each spring, I clean my patio with a homemade mixture that costs around 50p per treatment.
I start by sweeping away loose debris with a stiff-bristled broom. Then I mix white vinegar and warm water in a 1:1 ratio in a bucket, making sure the water is warm but not boiling.
What goes into the cleaner?
Once the solution is ready, I add a small dash of washing-up liquid and pour it across the entire patio. I focus on stubborn stains and leave the solution to work for about an hour, though I work faster in warmer weather.
After that, I scrub gently with the broom to loosen ingrained marks. The amount of dirt that lifts away always surprises me.
Cost of a 50p patio clean
I buy the white vinegar from Home Bargains for roughly £1 a bottle, although it is widely available elsewhere. I use about half a bottle per clean, so the cost is around 50p, with plenty left over for laundry or other household jobs.
There is very little scrubbing involved, and I was amazed at how spotless the patio looked afterwards. If needed, the process can be repeated with the same solution, though I doubt I will need to.
What to watch out for
If you try white vinegar outdoors, it is essential to test a small patch first, as certain materials may be damaged by it. Patios can also be cleaned with a pressure washer or a specialised patio cleaning product.
Keeping patios clean and stain-free helps them last longer and prevents slip hazards.
