Budget-friendly patio cleaning tips to refresh your garden ahead of spring

As the days get longer and the temperature rises, it’s time to dust off your patio and prepare your outdoor space for spring. 

From dull garden furniture to algae covering our slabs, there are plenty of ways the elements affect our gardens in the winter. And when spring and summer comes around, we naturally all want our garden to be looking its best with refreshed plants and a clean patio to enjoy. 

But for those of us without power washers, it can be hard to know how to clean a patio without a pressure washer. For anyone not wanting to spend on a power washer, our team of gardening experts at Grass247 have shared five easy, low-cost ways to revive your patio and garden furniture after a long winter. 

1. Banish algae and moss for as little as 35p

Algae and moss thrive in damp conditions, leaving patios looking green and slippery, which not only affects it’s appearance but also makes it a hazard for anyone walking in your garden. 

When it comes to cleaning algae from patios, instead of going straight for the expensive chemicals in garden stores, you can opt for white vinegar, which is sold in most supermarkets across the UK for as little as 35p. 

Simply mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Apply the solution to affected areas and allow it to sit for up to 30 minutes, then scrub with a stiff brush and rinse with water or any rainwater to refresh your patio ahead of springtime.

Want to collect rainwater naturally in your garden? Check out three of the most eco-friendly ways to collect rainwater here.

2. Use baking soda to brighten up dull patio stones

Over time, patio stones can become discoloured and grimy, especially over winter. For those wanting to know how to clean a patio that has seen better days, they may already have the solution in their cupboards: baking soda. 

A quick, easy and cost-effective method to get your patio slabs sparkling, some supermarkets sell baking soda for as little as 59p.

You simply need to sprinkle baking soda over the surface, then scrub with a wet brush or broom. 

For stubborn stains, mix baking soda with a little water to form a paste, apply with a brush, leave for 10 minutes, and then scrub and rinse. 

For optimal results, you should use a brush that has natural bristles rather than synthetic bristles to reduce any chances of damaging your stones.

If you’re looking to refresh your artificial grass, take a look at our tips for maintaining artificial grass in spring.

3. Revive outdoor furniture with soapy water & a toothbrush

Dish soap may not be the first thing that comes to mind when cleaning garden furniture, but it has incredible potential. 

As dirt and mildew can build up on patio furniture, especially in garden nooks, a simple way to combat this is to mix together warm water and dish soap. 

Use a toothbrush to work this into detailed areas and a soft sponge for larger surfaces. 

Rinse thoroughly and allow your furniture to air dry. Be cautious when using dish soap near plants and grass, as it can be harmful and potentially toxic to them.

4. How to clean wooden garden furniture with olive oil & lemon juice

Wooden tables and chairs often look dry and faded after winter, and so you may be tempted to whip out a tub of varnish or even some paint to give them a new lease on life. 

But before you do, why not try mixing two parts olive oil and one part lemon juice and rubbing it into the wood using a soft cloth? 

This not only cleans but also nourishes the wood to help it restore its natural shine, making it a cost-effective method for anyone needing to refresh their outdoor furniture. 

5. Keep weeds at bay with boiling water

Pesky weeds love to grow between patio slabs, making your outdoor space look unkempt. 

However, a quick and natural solution to this problem is to pour boiling water directly onto the weeds. This is most effective for any new weeds, so you’ll need to repeat this process a few times if you’re dealing with larger, more established weeds. If you don’t have any other plants nearby, this is a great way to kill weeds at the root without the need for harsh chemicals.

With these simple, affordable tips, your patio will be fresh, clean, and ready for spring in no time. So grab your scrub brush and a few household staples, and enjoy an outdoor space you can be proud of! 

If you’re looking for more ways to spring clean your garden, check out the best ways to clean and care for your lawn.