The simple cleaning mix
Patios collect dirt and moss over winter because of rain, wind and seasonal weather changes. Moss can also make a patio slippery, so clearing it away is important.
Each spring, I tackle my patio with a cheap homemade solution. First, I sweep up any debris with a stiff-bristled broom to keep the surface as tidy as possible.
How to make the 50p patio cleaner
After sweeping, I pour white vinegar into a bucket with warm water in a 1:1 ratio, making sure the water is warm rather than hot. Then I add a splash of washing-up liquid and pour the mixture across the whole patio.
I concentrate on any stubborn marks and leave the solution for about one hour to work, though in warm weather I move more quickly. Afterwards, I scrub the patio carefully with a broom, and it is always surprising to see how much grime lifts away.
Cost and advice
The white vinegar comes from Home Bargains for about £1 per bottle, though many shops stock it too. I use roughly half a bottle for a full patio, making each clean cost about 50p and leaving the rest for laundry or other household tasks.
The method involves minimal scrubbing, and I was genuinely amazed by how spotless the patio looked afterwards. If needed, the patio can be treated again with the vinegar mixture.
Anyone trying white vinegar outdoors should test it on a small patch first, as some surfaces and materials may be affected. Patios can also be cleaned with a pressure washer or a specialised patio cleaning product, and keeping them clean and stain-free helps extend their life and prevent slips.
