Summary: How to clean a patio, clean paving slabs and remove dirt.
It is difficult to maintain a patio as dirt and stains build up easily. Washing the patio every few weeks should stop any particularly difficult build up and regular sweeping is useful for keeping the patio looking neat.
How to clean a patio
- Remove weeds growing between the stones using any implement you can find for the job, such as a knife or patio weeder. Alternatively you can kill the weeds where they are by spraying weed killer on them.
- If patio is not badly stained and you don’t mind a little physical exertion, mix a solution of laundry detergent and warm water and scrub the stone until you are content with the job.
- A jet wash will remove tougher dirt on any patio. It is also an easy method as little work is involved. It is important to seek the manufacturer’s advice before use, as you will need to know the recommended setting for patio use. Always avoid delicate objects when using high pressure jet washes.
- An alternative way of making your patio look good again, is to use a branded stone cleaning product. These can be found in most hardware stores. Although more effort is involved, it is a less water hungry method. Having read the instructions, apply the solution and (depending on the type of cleaning product and the stubbornness of the dirt) you should be able to simply rinse your stone patio clean. For more stubborn grime, use a brush to scrub remaining dirt.