There’s one common household item that can rival pressure washers for cleaning patios (Image: Anggi Dharma Prasetya via Getty Images)
As autumn draws near, now is a perfect opportunity to revitalise your patios and driveways, and you don’t always need to invest in a pressure washer for the job. Giving your driveway a comprehensive clean is a gardening chore you’ll want to tackle before October arrives and temperatures begin to fall, as the change in weather can make its appearance worse.
While a high-quality pressure washer is usually the go-to choice for this job, specialists have disclosed that if you don’t possess one, biological washing powder can deliver surprisingly impressive results. It seems washing powder has applications far beyond the laundry basket. According to The Driveway Experts, “normal washing powder can save the day” and revitalise your block paving, paving blocks, or interlocking pavers to “look brand new”.
Laundry powder can help patios look brand new (Image: Atitaya Pimpa via Getty Images)
They said: “This basic product can work wonders to get a perfect driveway or patio with brick paver flooring.”
How effective is laundry powder on patios and paving?
The experts observed: “Washing powder does a great job at cleaning block paving. It gets rid of tough stains, dirt, and debris. The chemicals in it also kill moss and algae that grow on paving.”
While the paving professionals acknowledged that standard washing powder can be used, they suggest opting for the biological variety, as these contain natural enzymes that break down organic matter such as grease and grime. Furthermore, they’re gentler on the environment, reports Surrey Live.
Before starting, test the solution on a hidden area of the paving to confirm it won’t cause any harm.
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The powder can help break down grime and stains (Image: mikroman6 via Getty Images)
How to prepare patios for the cleaning process
Firstly, before addressing patios and paving with washing powder, make certain you prepare the area correctly. Remove any garden furniture to avoid damage and sweep the surface to eliminate larger debris.
Subsequently, create the cleaning solution by mixing a modest quantity of washing powder with warm water in a bucket.
How to clean patios and paving with washing powder
When the washing powder solution is prepared, apply this mixture onto the paving and leave it to sit for roughly 10 minutes. This allows the active components sufficient time to dissolve grime and stains.
What renders biological washing powder such a superb choice is its cost-effectiveness and environmental benefits.
It works exceptionally well at removing stains, dirt, and moss without relying on harsh chemicals, enabling you to preserve your driveway’s condition while being considerate of nearby plants and wildlife.
Following the waiting time, employ a soft-bristled brush to carefully scrub the paving in a diagonal motion. Exercise caution not to harm the jointing compound between the blocks.
Lastly, rinse the paving completely with clean water. This eliminates any remaining dirt and detergent.
For especially soiled sections, you may need to repeat this procedure. It’s also recommended to examine the jointing compound and replenish it if required.
This preserves your block paving’s longevity and appearance.
