How to clean your patio

Why does a patio get dirty so quickly? 

An outdoor patio is constantly exposed to the weather. Rain, leaves, dust and algae cause it to look dull, green or dirty over time. Especially in humid periods, a green deposit may occur, making your terrace less attractive and also slippery and less safe. Regular cleaning helps to keep all of these setbacks under control. 

How do you clean a terrace? 

Cleaning a terrace always starts with proper preparation. First, remove all loose dirt such as leaves and sand. This will prevent spreading dirt and scratches during your cleaning efforts. 

Then, clean your patio with water and a suitable product. Often, a bucket of lukewarm water with a small amount of all-purpose cleaner is enough for light dirt. Work systematically and rinse afterwards with clean water to get rid of any remaining residue. 

Which cleaning product should you use? 

Choosing the right patio cleaner strongly depends on the type of terrace, as not every material reacts the same. 

• For most terraces, a mild approach is sufficient, using water with a mild cleaner or a specific patio product. 

• Vinegar is sometimes used to combat green deposits, but you need to be careful. It can damage certain materials and joints. 

• For stubborn dirt, specific cleaners are available but always use them carefully and according to instructions. 

Different types of terraces, different approach 

The way you clean your patio depends on the material. 

• Concrete tiles can handle slightly stronger scrubbing, although care is still needed to avoid discolouration. 

• Natural stone (such as blue stone) should not be treated with acidic products like vinegar, as this can damage the surface. 

• Wood or composite wood requires a gentler approach and suitable products to avoid drying out or damaging the material. 

Can you use a pressure washer? 

A pressure washer may seem like a quick-and-easy tool to use, but it is not always the best choice. On some terraces, powerful jet washers can: 

• Damage joints 

• Make the surface rougher 

• Affect protective layers 

So, it is better to use a pressure washer sparingly and put it on a suitable setting. Keep enough distance from the patio surface and test it first on a small area. 

What can be done about green deposits on patios? 

Green deposits are one of the most common and unsightly issues with outdoor patios. It is mostly caused by moisture and shade and it can spread quickly. 

It is best to tackle green deposit with a suitable patio product or a mild cleaning agent. Leave it to sit for a while and do its magic. Then, rinse thoroughly. 

Patience will get you further than force, as vigorous scrubbing and aggressive cleaning products will do more harm than good. 

When is the best time to clean your terrace? 

When you clean your patio is more important than you may think. 

• Avoid working in direct sunlight. It will make water and cleaning products dry too quickly, possibly causing streaks or marks. It also gives you less time to loosen up the dirt properly. 

• The best time is on a cloudy day, or in the morning or evening when the sun is less strong. This allows you to work more at ease and achieve a better result. 

• The season also plays a role. A thorough spring clean is ideal to summer-proof your patio, while an autumn clean is ideal to remove dirt and green deposit before winter calls. 

The sustainable benefits of a regular patio clean 

By taking care of your terrace regularly: 

• You prevent dirt from building up 

• You need fewer heavy-duty products 

• You extend the lifespan of your terrace 

Small maintenance jobs now will save you trouble later. 

FAQ - Frequently asked questions about cleaning a terrace 

How do I remove green deposits from my terrace? 
With a mild cleaning agent or a suitable product, combined with enough soaking time.
 

Can I use vinegar on my patio? 
Not on all materials. Avoid vinegar on natural stone and always test first if in doubt. 

Is a pressure washer a good idea? 
It can be, but use it carefully and put it on a low setting to avoid any damage.