Now that spring is in full force, there has never been a better time to give your patio some tender loving care. According to paving experts, the simple answer to a sparkling clean patio is already sitting in your home.
How to Clean Your Patio with Washing Powder
If you have invested time, effort, and money into making your garden patio look its best, you need to know how to maintain it. While the best patio cleaners and pressure washers can certainly help, you might be interested to learn that they are not the only options. In fact, another method has become a hit on social media, and the cleaning product required is probably under your sink right now.
Although you may use Fairy or Persil powder laundry detergent to freshen up your clothes, many social media-savvy homeowners have started using these products in their gardens as well. According to paving pros at The Driveway Experts, washing powder can remove stains and moss, making your patio “look brand new.”
They explained: “Washing powder does a great job at cleaning block paving. It gets rid of tough stains, dirt, and debris. The chemicals in it also kill moss and algae that grow on paving. Washing powder is great for cleaning paving, and it is budget-friendly. But use it carefully. The mix can tackle tough stains and make the paving look new again. Yet, always try it on a hidden spot first. This way, you check it won’t harm the paving material, especially if it is a sensitive natural stone paver.”
Step-by-Step Guide
Firstly, before cleaning your patio with washing powder, make sure you prepare the area. Remove any outdoor furniture to avoid damage. Then sweep the paving to remove large amounts of dirt. Next, create a solution by mixing a small amount of washing powder with warm water in a bucket. Pour this mixture onto the paving and leave it for about 10 minutes. This allows the chemicals to work on removing grime and stains. After waiting, use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the paving in a diagonal direction. Be careful not to harm the jointing compound between the blocks. Finally, rinse the paving thoroughly with clean water to remove any remaining dirt and detergent.
For very dirty areas, you may need to repeat the process more than once. It is also advisable to check the jointing compound and add more if needed. This will keep your block paving strong and looking good for years to come.
