How to Clean Patios and Outdoor Surfaces

Keeping your patio and outdoor living spaces clean can seem like an endless chore. Dirt, grime, mold, and mildew can quickly accumulate on outdoor surfaces exposed to the elements. Properly cleaning patios and outdoor areas takes some work, but is essential for maintaining aesthetic appeal, sanitation, and surface integrity. With the right techniques and cleaning solutions, you can keep your patios, decks, driveways, and other outdoor surfaces looking like new.

Why Regular Cleaning of Outdoor Areas is Important

There are several key reasons why patios, decks, driveways and other outdoor living spaces require regular cleaning:

Curb Appeal – Having a clean, attractive outdoor area can greatly enhance your home’s curb appeal. Keeping patios and decks free of dirt, stains, mildew, and debris makes your home look well-cared for from the street.
Use and Enjoyment – It’s much more enjoyable to use outdoor living areas when they are clean and inviting. Entertaining or relaxing outside is much less appealing on a dirty, messy patio or deck.
Safety – Built up grime can make outdoor surfaces slippery and hazardous. Cleaning helps remove slippery moss and algae growth.
Prevent Damage – Letting dirt, mold, and mildew accumulate can actually cause damage over time. Cleaning protects the integrity of patio and deck building materials.
Improve Hygiene – Clearing away dirt, leaves, spiderwebs and other outdoor debris improves general cleanliness and sanitation around your home’s exterior.
Add Value – A pristine patio or deck adds value to your home. Keeping up your outdoor areas can pay off when it comes time to sell.

Regular cleaning is the key to enjoying your outdoor living spaces and keeping them in tip-top shape.

Tips for Effective Outdoor Surface Cleaning

Here are some handy tips to employ when tackling patio, deck, and driveway cleaning:

Remove furniture and decor – Clear the area of removable rugs, seating, planters and anything else that can be taken indoors or stored elsewhere. This allows for better access.
Sweep first – Use an outdoor broom to sweep away surface dirt, leaves, spiderwebs and other large debris. Dispose of sweepings properly.
Pre-soak stubborn stains – Soak or scrub extra dirty spots like oil drips before washing the whole surface. This pre-treatment gives stains a head start on breaking down.
Use the right tools – A sturdy push broom, a stiff scrub brush, and a garden hose are cleaning basics. For decks, a pressure washer is very useful.
Work in sections – Don’t take on too large an area at once. Work in smaller, manageable sections for best results and to avoid spreading around dirty water.
Rinse thoroughly – After washing, rinse surfaces very thoroughly to remove all detergent residue which can cause streaking.
Let dry fully – Give surfaces plenty of time to completely dry before replacing furniture, rugs or other items.

With the right approach and tools, cleaning your patios and outdoor areas doesn’t have to be a hated chore. Just break it down into simple steps.

How to Clean Concrete Patios

Concrete makes a versatile, durable patio surface, but does require periodic deep cleaning to look its best. Here’s how to clean concrete patios:

Supplies Needed

Push broom
Garden hose
Stiff scrub brush
Concrete degreaser or cleaner
Bucket
Heavy duty scrub pads or brush
Concrete brightener or acidic cleaner
Sponge
Pressure washer (optional)

Cleaning Steps

Sweep away debris – Use the broom to sweep up any leaves, dirt or other debris from the patio’s surface. Dispose of sweepings.
Pre-soak stains – Use a degreasing cleaner to soak any oily stains. Let it penetrate stains for 5-10 minutes before scrubbing.
Scrub with detergent – In a bucket, mix a concrete degreaser or other detergent with hot water per label instructions. Use a stiff scrub brush and hot soapy water to scrub the entire patio surface.
Rinse – Use a garden hose to rinse away all detergent residue. Rinse thoroughly.
Brighten (optional) – For older concrete or severe stains, use a concrete brightener after cleaning. Brighteners contain acids that help dissolve built-up grime. Rinse very thoroughly after use.
Power wash (optional) – For a deep clean, use a pressure washer after other steps. Take care on delicate surfaces.
Let dry fully – Allow the concrete to dry completely before further use.

Regular concrete patio cleaning keeps outdoor living space looking fresh and stain-free. Repeat cleaning as needed.

Cleaning Tile Patios and Walkways

Outdoor tile surfaces like patios, walkways and pool decking require unique care and cleaning methods compared to other patio materials. Follow these tips for keeping tile patios spotless:

Supplies Needed

Push broom
Garden hose
Mild liquid soap or tile cleaner
Bucket
Scrub brush
Grout brush
Soft sponge

Cleaning Steps

Sweep away loose debris – Use a broom to sweep up any dirt, leaves or other debris from the tile surface.
Mix soap and water – In a bucket, dilute a mild liquid soap or tile cleaning detergent with warm water.
Scrub surface – Use a soft scrub brush and warm soapy water to gently scrub the tile patio surface. Take care not to damage delicate tile.
Scrub grout – Use a grout brush or old toothbrush to scrub grout lines. Remove built-up dirt and grime from grout.
Rinse – Thoroughly rinse detergent from the tiles using a garden hose. Rinse until water runs clear.
Spot treat stains – For stubborn stains on tile, rub gently with a damp sponge and baking soda or other mild abrasive. Rinse thoroughly.
Let dry fully – Allow tile patio surface to dry completely before regular use. Check for any remaining damp spots.

Proper tile cleaning removes soils, stains and debris to keep patio tiles looking their best. Repeat patio tile cleaning as needed to maintain beauty.

How to Clean Wood Decks

Wood decks add beauty and character to a home. But their soft porous surface requires diligent cleaning to prevent damage. Follow these guidelines for cleaning wood decks:

Supplies Needed

Push broom
Garden hose
Stiff scrub brush
Wood deck cleaner
Bucket
Soft bristle brush
Brightener or restorative solution

Cleaning Steps

Sweep – Use a broom to sweep leaves, cobwebs and debris off the wood decking boards. Dispose of sweepings.
Apply cleaner – Fill a bucket with wood deck cleaner mixed with hot water per product label. Use a stiff scrub brush to work cleaner over deck surface.
Scrub boards – Scrub along wood grain to remove built-up dirt, mold and mildew growth. Rinse brush often.
Rinse – Use a garden hose to thoroughly rinse decking boards. Rinse until no more suds appear.
Brighten (Optional) – For gray, weathered boards, use a wood brightener after cleaning. This helps restore wood’s color. Rinse thoroughly.
Scrub rails – Use a soft brush and wood cleaner to gently scrub railings, posts, and banisters. Avoid scratching.
Let dry fully – Allow deck to dry completely before applying finishes, sealant or using the space.

Regular, thorough deck cleaning maintains safety and optimizes wood’s lifespan and beauty. Aim to deep clean wood decks at least twice per year.

Cleaning Driveways and Sidewalks

Driveways and sidewalks take a real beating from vehicle fluids, seasonal debris, and constant foot traffic. Here is an effective cleaning regimen:

Supplies Needed

Stiff push broom
Garden hose
Heavy duty degreaser
Power washer (optional)
Scrub brush
Patio cleaner with bleach (for concrete)

Cleaning Steps

Sweep – Use a stiff push broom to sweep up debris like leaves, dirt and grass clippings from the driveway surface.
Pre-treat oil stains – Squirt degreaser directly onto any oil or grease stains. Allow to soak for 10 minutes.
Scrub – In a bucket, dilute a heavy duty degreaser. Use a stiff scrub brush and hot soapy water to scrub stubborn areas of grime buildup.
Power wash – For concrete or heavily soiled asphalt, use a gas pressure washer to deep clean after sweeping and degreasing.
Rinse – Use a garden hose to rinse away all cleaner residue with clean water. Rinse thoroughly.
Brighten concrete – For concrete, apply a patio cleaner with bleach after other steps to help remove stains and discoloration.
Let dry fully – Allow the driveway or sidewalk to dry completely before using, to prevent slip hazards.

Repeat this thorough cleaning regimen for driveways and sidewalks as needed to keep them looking like new. A clean driveway improves curb appeal.

Removing Mold and Mildew from Outdoor Surfaces

Mold and mildew are common nuisances on patios, decks, siding and other outdoor surfaces. Here is how to conquer them:

Supplies Needed

Garden hose
Scrub brushes
Bucket
Mold remover or bleach solution
Heavy duty scrub pads
Pressure washer (optional)

Removal Steps

Mix mold killing solution – In a bucket, mix a mold and mildew remover concentrate or bleach solution with water per product instructions.
Apply – Use a scrub brush or sponge to liberally apply the mold killing solution to affected areas of patio, deck, siding etc.
Let soak – Allow the solution to soak and penetrate for 10-20 minutes before scrubbing.
Scrub – Use a stiff scrub brush or scrubbing pad to vigorously scrub moldy areas. This helps lifts stain and kills mold.
Rinse – Use a garden hose to thoroughly rinse away all mold killing solution residue.
Repeat as needed – For severe mold and mildew, do a second application if needed. Rinse again.
Pressure wash – For wood or cement surfaces, use a pressure washer after other steps to blast away stubborn mold.
Let dry – Allow outdoor surfaces to completely dry before further use or furnishing.

Attack mold and mildew promptly to protect your home and keep outdoor living spaces looking fresh and clean.

Cleaning Outdoor Furniture and Accessories

Don’t overlook outdoor furniture, accessories and equipment in patio and deck cleaning. Here are some tips:

Supplies Needed

Bucket
Mild liquid soap
Scrub brushes
Old toothbrush
Garden hose
Concrete cleaner
Soft rag

Cleaning Steps

Wash cushions – Remove cushion covers and machine wash in cold water with mild detergent if possible. Air dry.
Sweep furniture – Use a broom to sweep away dirt and debris from surfaces and crevices.
Scrub surfaces – Mix soap and water in a bucket. Use a soft scrub brush and mild soap solution to scrub furniture surfaces.
Clean crevices – Use an old toothbrush dipped in soapy water to scrub crevices and intricate decor details.
Rinse – Wipe away soapy residue with a wet rag. Rinse furniture thoroughly with clean water.
De-stain – Use a concrete cleaner to scrub stains on concrete, ceramic or stone decorative pieces like birdbaths and statuary.
Air dry – Allow furniture and accessories to completely air dry before replacing cushions or using items.

Proper cleaning preserves outdoor furniture and keeps patios and decks looking sharp.

Cleaning and Removing Stains on Patio Pavers

Patio pavers provide an attractive, low maintenance surface. But like all patio materials, they require periodic deep cleaning and stain removal:

Supplies Needed

Push broom
Hose
Pressure washer
Paver cleaner
Scrub brush
Spray bottle of bleach

Cleaning Steps

Sweep – Use a push broom to sweep dirt, leaves, debris from between patio paver stones. Sweep over the entire surface.
Pre-treat stains – Squirt undiluted bleach directly on any tough stains like oil or rust to pre-treat them. Allow to soak for 15 minutes.
Pressure wash – Use a gas pressure washer to blast away dirt and debris from pavers. Take care not to damage pavers.
Apply cleaner – In a pump spray bottle, dilute paver cleaner concentrate with water. Liberally spray solution over pavers.
Scrub – Use a stiff scrub brush and hot water to scrub pavers. Remove lingering dirt and stains.
Rinse – Thoroughly rinse pavers with a garden hose to remove cleaner residue.
Seal (Optional) – Apply a fresh coat of paver sealant after cleaning for added protection. Allow sealant to fully dry.

Regular paver cleaning preserves their beauty and prevents long term damage from stains. Sweep debris from pavers frequently.

Tips for Cleaning a Stone Patio or Walkway

Natural stone patios and pathways require some finesse to clean properly without causing harm:

Always sweep loose dirt from stone before washing to prevent abrasion damage. Use an outdoor broom with soft bristles.
Test cleaners in an inconspicuous spot before using on the entire surface. Some stones are prone to etching from acids.
Use a mild pH neutral soap and warm water. Avoid harsh alkaline or acidic cleaners that can degrade stone.
Use a soft scrub brush and gentle pressure when cleaning. Scrub in direction of veining or patterns.
Rinse thoroughly with pH neutral water. Harsh tap water may leave mineral deposits.
Soak up spills immediately before they have a chance to stain stone. Use baking soda or flour to absorb oil.
For tough stains, use a poultice paste scrub to draw out the stain without damaging stone.
Take care with pressure washers. Use a wide angle, low pressure setting to avoid etching or cracking stone.

With the proper gentle cleaning approach, natural stone pavers can provide years of service and beauty in outdoor living spaces.

Removing Rust Stains from Patios and Decks

Rust stains from metal furniture, decor items, or equipment can be an unsightly nuisance. Here are some stain removal tips:

First try scrubbing the rust stain with white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it soak for 15 minutes before scrubbing with a brush.
Use oxalic acid products to break down and dissolve rust stains. Follow product label for correct dilution and use.
For concrete surfaces, use a commercial rust remover and scrub brush to rub away the stain.
For stone and tile, make a paste with baking soda and water. Gently scrub on the stain and rinse thoroughly. Take care not to abrade delicate surfaces.
Prevent future stains by applying wax to the bottom of metal furniture legs. This prevents contact between metal and patio surface.
Add felt pads underneath furniture legs and other accessories to prevent abrasion damage to patio and deck surfaces.

Addressing rust stains promptly keeps outdoor living areas looking clean and prevents permanent discoloration damage from setting in.

Power Washing Patios, Decks and Driveways

Power washing with a gas pressure washer is a highly effective cleaning method for outdoor surfaces like:

Decks – dislodges ground-in grime from wood grain
Patios – blasts away stubborn stains
Concrete – removes years of dirt buildup
Driveways – cleans oily drips and tire marks
Painted surfaces – strips chalky oxidation and residue
Outdoor furniture – cleans intricate details

Follow these power washing tips:

Wear protective gear – goggles, gloves, old clothes, closed toe shoes.
Sweep and de-stain patio first before power washing. This prevents spreading around debris.
Test power washer settings on an inconspicuous spot first like underneath a deck board or patio edge.
Use the appropriate tip and keep the pressure washer nozzle 6-10 inches away from the cleaning surface. Never point it directly at one spot.
Take care around delicate surfaces like tile and natural stone which can erode under high pressure. Use lower settings.
Rinsing with a garden hose is still needed after power washing to remove cleaner residue.

When used properly, power washing is a safe and highly effective cleaning method for revitalizing outdoor living spaces.

Cleaning Indoor Spaces After Patio and Deck Use

After entertaining or spending time outdoors, you may track in some unwanted dirt, pollen, debris and moisture into your home. Follow these steps to minimize cleaning indoor spaces after patio and deck use:

Set out boot trays, door mats and area rugs