As Britain continues to enjoy a heatwave, many homeowners are finding their patios stained after bank holiday barbecues and gatherings. But according to experts, expensive pressure washers are not needed—everyday kitchen items can do the job for as little as 84p.
Billy Joe Jarvis, co-founder of Premium Paints, says that cola is highly effective at removing greasy marks from paving. 'Residual grease from barbecues can sink into paving rapidly, but cola's acidic properties help dissolve it,' he explains. Simply pour the fizzy drink onto the stain, leave it for 30 minutes, then scrub and rinse with warm water.
For smaller or stubborn marks, denture tablets are another surprising solution. 'They are formulated to remove stains, making them effective for cleaning patio corners or edges,' says Jarvis. Dissolve a few tablets in warm water, pour onto the stain, let it fizz, then gently scrub.
Even raw potatoes can tackle fresh rust marks left by metal garden furniture. Slice a potato in half and rub it directly onto the affected area before washing clean. The gentle acid in the potato helps lift the rust.
Jarvis warns against overusing pressure washers or bleach-based products, which can damage paving over time. 'Too much pressure can wash away jointing sand, while heavy bleach can fade stones and strip protective coatings,' he says. For most everyday stains, simple household products are often enough, especially if caught early.'
