How Often to Clean A Concrete Patio
Most patios simply require annual cleaning. Spring is an excellent time to remove the muck and filth left over from the winter. However, you might want to add a thorough cleaning in the fall if there are food stains or oil drips from a grill.
Full Patio Cleaning Process
Here's how to quickly clean a concrete or cement patio, with or without a power washer, whether you're doing spring cleaning or eliminating stubborn stains.
Step 1: Remove Dirt and Loose Debris
Clear the patio of all obstructions, such as pots, furniture, and grills. Sweep away any leaves, trash, or loose dirt. To safeguard any adjacent plants or landscaping, cover it with a tarp.
Step 2: Get out of Patio Stains
Water stains, mold, mildew
To get rid of water stains or mildew, use a power washer or garden hose. If it doesn't work, combine 3/4 cup bleach with 1 gallon of water to create a solution. Brush the area while donning safety gear, such as rubber gloves. Rinse well with fresh water. Before repositioning décor or furniture on the patio, make sure it is completely dry.
Oil and Grease stains
To remove spills, sift sawdust, cornstarch, or baking soda over the stain. Additionally, you can make a cleaning paste by combining some water and baking soda. Allow it to sit for 30 to 60 minutes after gently massaging the stain with it. After that, wash the solution away or sweep up any leftover powder.
Concrete has pores in it. If the oil stain is older, the surface may have been compromised. If you have old grease stains on a concrete patio, try using a degreaser as directed by the manufacturer.
Rust stains
For practical, environmentally friendly rust stain removal from cement patios, use white vinegar. Deep stains can be penetrated by spraying it straight onto the stain and letting it sit for less than an hour. Use a scrub brush with strong bristles to scrub. Try to brush in line with the original surface if the concrete was given a stone-like appearance or was given a grain pattern to prevent unsightly scratches. After rinsing, let it to air dry. Repeat the procedure if necessary or use a concrete rust remover if the stain doesn't disappear.
Step 3: Clean Patio Floor
Dish soap and water
As a degreaser, dish soap effectively removes oil and grime from concrete. Apply a cleaning solution to the surface by combining warm water with a few drops of dish soap. After letting it sit for some time, clean the patio and give it a fresh water rinse. As many times as necessary, repeat the procedure.
Vinegar or baking soda mixture
These organic cleansers are effective at removing persistent rust or charcoal stains from cement patios which make them an excellent patio cleaner. Scrub the patio with a solution made of equal parts vinegar and water, then give it a thorough rinse.
Try using pure vinegar if the spots don't go. Use of vinegar and baking soda in a power washer is not recommended. And to reduce any irritation, make sure to use gloves, safety goggles, and a mask to protect your hands, eyes, and nose.
Bleach solution
Wear a pair of rubber gloves. Sprinkle the solution over the entire surface using a cup. Use a mop or push broom with gentle bristles to scrub it. After letting it sit for about 10 minutes, properly rinse it with cool water from the hose.
Learn more about best steam mops in our detailed guide.
Bleach and other cleaning products should never be mixed.
Concrete patio cleaner
To loosen oil, they are often produced with concentrated alkaline soap. They may not be as effective on older stains, while being effective on porous concrete.
Pressure washer
Pressure washing your patio can be quite quick and effective. Outdoor space can be pressure washed with variety of solutions but the most commonly used is a mixture of bleach and water.
Remember that some providers advise against using pressure washers on their paving; if you're unsure whether yours will withstand the procedure, test a small area first.
Prior to starting to pressure wash, sweep and clean the surface. Start with a lower pressure setting and gradually raise it as necessary; avoid applying excessive pressure to any chipped pavement. If a fan setting is available, use it at a low angle. Section by section cleaning will prevent pressure from building up in certain places.
Muriatic acid
This chemical is frequently used to garage floors or driveways where concrete has become discolored by oil spills from cars. Muriatic acid can brighten concrete and remove mineral, oil, paint, and rust stains when handled properly. Be careful because this acid can damage grass and plants and is harmful. To protect yourself from hazardous touch and fumes, wear protective equipment, such as a respirator. For best practices, adhere to the manufacturer's instructions.
Step 4: Clean and Refresh Furniture
Use the Fortador Volt Mini portable steamer to effectively clean patio furniture. Its high heat and pressure will tackle stubborn stains, grease, and dirt without the need for harsh chemicals. Ensure a thorough and hygienic clean while preserving the furniture's surface integrity.
Prevent Patio Stains
The easiest way to prevent stains on a cement patio is using a concrete sealer. Use a paint roller or sprayer to apply them yourself if you're up for the challenge. If not, dial a professional.
Concrete floors should be cleaned annually. Before starting the cleaning process, this is also a wonderful time to check the deck for damage and make any required repairs.
If you're not sure what to use to clean your concrete patio, test a cleaning solution in a hidden or shaded area to make sure it won't stain or etch the concrete. Once you've mastered the technique, thoroughly clean the patio while wearing safety gear and taking all essential precautions.
How To Prevent Algae
You must intensify your home's exterior cleaning routine if you believe that algae growth on your patio is a lost struggle. However, you don't always need to use a cleaner; all you actually need is a stiff brush or broom, and you should use it to remove dead leaves carefully. Keep your patio free of waste since algae feed on decaying organic matter. After turning it off, pick one of the slow-acting patio cleaners from our selection and apply it for simple results. These also function over time to stop regrowth.
How to Deep Clean Patio Slabs
While a patio cleaner can be used to clean patio slabs, a pressure washer is your best bet for a complete clean. You just need to inspect your patio once or twice a year, depending on the weather, and these offer wonderful, immediate, and extremely rewarding results. If compatible, you can also use a pressure washer in addition to one of these solutions to clean surfaces more thoroughly, eliminate odors, prevent the growth of moss and lichen, and eradicate bacteria.
Does Bleach Damage Patio Slabs?
Although it is a severe cleaning chemical and should only be used as a last resort, bleach might be useful. Block pavers and artificially colored concrete are two types of slabs that bleach can harm, advises Ray Brosnan of Brosnan Property Solutions (opens in new tab). Repeated use of the bleach may cause the slabs' color to fade. Be cautious if your slabs are near any vegetation or plants, since the bleach solution will shock and kill them if it comes into contact with them.
Best Heavy duty Steamer to Clean Patios
The best way to clean the patio and your outdoors is with a steam cleaner. A steam cleaner will be able to fight against stains, grease, and more due to its high heat and high pressure combination.
Steam will not damage the surface of your patio but it will successfully remove any stubborn dirt. In addition, steam cleans the surface from inside out and sanitizes it simultaneously.
One of the best options on the market is the Fortador PRO Steamer. It is powered by a Lamborghini engine which makes the system of this machine very powerful.
This steam cleaner doesn't require a use of any harsh chemicals which makes it a perfect eco friendly option. The set comes with many additional attachments and extensions that will aid you in your patio cleaning.
A steamer is very versatile and can be used for many different purposes. You can use steam to clean your car, clean your house, clean boats, and much more!
Best Portable Steamer to Clean Patio furnitiure
When it comes to effectively cleaning patio furniture, the Fortador Volt Mini portable steamer is an exceptional choice. This compact steam cleaner harnesses the power of high heat and pressure to tackle stubborn stains, grease, and dirt on your outdoor furniture.
The Fortador Volt Mini is designed to deliver powerful performance while being portable and easy to use. Its compact size allows for convenient maneuverability, making it a practical option for cleaning patio furniture.
What sets the Fortador Volt Mini apart is its eco-friendly nature. It eliminates the need for harsh chemicals, providing a safe and sustainable cleaning solution for your patio furniture. With this portable steamer, you can achieve a thorough and hygienic clean without compromising the integrity of the furniture's surface.
In addition to its patio cleaning capabilities, the Fortador Volt Mini offers versatility for various cleaning tasks. Whether you need to freshen up your car, tidy your home, or tackle other outdoor cleaning projects, this portable steamer is up to the challenge.
Choose the Fortador Volt Mini portable steamer for efficient and eco-friendly steam cleaning of your patio furniture. Experience the convenience of a compact design combined with powerful performance, ensuring that your outdoor furniture remains in pristine condition.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to cleaning your patio, it is important to choose the right method and equipment. For patio furniture, the Fortador Volt Mini portable steamer is an exceptional choice. Its compact size, eco-friendly operation, and powerful performance make it ideal for effectively tackling stubborn stains and dirt on outdoor furniture. On the other hand, for heavy-duty cleaning tasks on the patio, such as removing tough stains and grime, the Fortador PRO Steamer with its Lamborghini engine proves to be a highly reliable option. Both steam cleaners offer versatility and efficiency in maintaining a clean and inviting outdoor space. By utilizing the Fortador Volt Mini for furniture and the Fortador PRO for heavy cleaning, you can ensure that your patio remains in pristine condition while enjoying the benefits of powerful and eco-friendly cleaning solutions.