Cleaning patio tiles in spring: Important tips and effective home remedies

We can't wait to enjoy the beautiful weather outside again. But before we can relax outdoors and enjoy the fresh air again, there is still a lot to do. During the cold months, dirt and grime have accumulated on the patio, detracting from the beauty of the outdoor space. Find out how to clean the patio tiles so that they look clean and attractive again in spring.

Photo: Shutterstock/ Dimasik_sh

Cleaning patio tiles in spring: With these home remedies you can do it

Regular cleaning and care are essential if you want to keep your patio tiles in the best condition and increase their longevity. Concrete slabs, wooden slabs, natural stone - before you start, it is important to ensure what material your slabs are made of in order to choose the right method and cleaning products and protect their quality and construction. However, avoid chemical cleaning products as well as vinegar and salt, which can leach into the groundwater and poison your garden. Below we have put together some environmentally friendly, effective home remedies that can be used to clean most types of patio tiles even without a high-pressure cleaner.

Basic cleaning with water and detergent

Photo: Shutterstock/ Agnes Kantaruk

If you want to clean the terrace in spring, you should first prepare the outside area for it. Remove all garden furniture and other objects and sweep away coarse dirt such as fallen leaves.

Then fill a bucket with lukewarm water, add a few dabs of mild dishwashing liquid and stir well so that the dishwashing liquid can dissolve. Pour the soap solution onto the panels, trying to distribute it evenly across the surface. Use a soft-bristled brush and scrub the patio tiles in a circular motion to remove dirt. Pay attention to stained and heavily soiled areas. Then rinse them with clean water, using a garden hose, and let them dry. It is therefore recommended that cleaning be carried out early in the morning so that the covering dries completely during the day.

Don't forget to clean the joints between them and remove weeds. If your patio tiles are heat-resistant, you can use a flame burner. A grout scraper is also perfect for this, as is a treatment with hot water. For a long-term, effective effect, it is best to seal them after cleaning.

This method is suitable for all types of patio tiles. It is also very effective at removing stains and discoloration from sensitive wooden panels.

Also read:Remove rust and grease stains from patio tiles: With these simple tips it works in a flash!

Clean patio tiles in spring: with washing powder

Washing powder is another home remedy that can be used to clean patio tiles. It is effective against rust stains, green deposits and dirt. If you choose this cleaning method, just make sure to choose a biodegradable washing powder.

Moisten the plates with warm water and sprinkle the washing powder on them. Scrub the surface with a cleaning brush until all particles have dissolved. Wait 5 minutes and rinse the area with cold water.

Clean concrete slabs without water

Concrete is a slightly porous material, which means that liquids can easily penetrate and damage it. Therefore, if you have concrete slabs on your patio, it is important to clean them with as little water as possible. It is best to use quartz sand for cleaning, which you spread generously over the plates. Rub it lightly with a broom to remove the dirt.

Remove stubborn stains

Foto: Shutterstock/ AFPics

Stains and discoloration can also appear on the panels over time. Although it's always best to remove them immediately, there are some effective home remedies that can help with stubborn stains.

  • Oil and grease stains:Prepare a thick paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the stained area. Leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes, then scrub the area with a brush and rinse with clean water to remove any residue. Repeat the process as necessary until all discoloration is removed.
  • Rust spots:Mix 1 part lemon juice with 2 parts Cream of Tartar to make a paste. Rub themwith an old toothbrushand leave it on for a few hours before rinsing the area.

Prevent dirt

You probably know that wooden panels can be impregnated to extend their lifespan and repel dirt. But did you know that impregnation or sealing is also possible for concrete slabs and natural stone? Such a treatment is recommended after basic cleaning in spring and should be repeated every few years so that the panels lose their absorbency and remain clean and shiny for longer.

Also interesting:Cleaning Bankirai terrace: How to prepare it for spring