So, you are looking to clean your patio without chemicals? Then you’ve certainly come to the right place.

With so many products that have harmful ingredients, it can be hard to figure out which one is best for your needs. Not to mention, these chemicals can often be expensive and dangerous.

But don’t worry–we’re here to help. In this guide, we’ll show you how to clean your patio without any harsh chemicals. So, whether you’re looking for an eco-friendly option or you just want to avoid harsh fumes, read on for our top tips.

The best way to clean your patio without chemicals is by pressure washing it. This is because you only use water in your pressure and there is no need to include additional chemicals. The sheer power of the pressure washer will help remove any dirt, dust, or debris that is on the surface of your patio.

Can You Clean Pavers Without Chemicals?

A lot of people are under the misconception that you have to add chemicals to the water in order to get the patio clean. But this is actually not the case at all. Using water alone will be more than enough to get the job done.

One word of caution: you will need to be careful when using a pressure washer. Make sure that you do not aim the stream directly at any plants or flowers, as this could cause damage. Also, take care to avoid any electrical outlets or other sensitive areas.

Is It as Effective?

Yes, it is extremely effective. In fact, many people find that it is more effective than using chemicals. This is because the pressure washer will remove all of the dirt and debris from the surface, whereas chemicals can often just mask the issue.

What Equipment Should I Use?

If you have your own pressure washer, then, of course, you can use that. But if you don’t, you can also hire one from your local hardware or home improvement store.

Note: Even if you have a small patio, ensure you hire it for the whole weekend as it often takes you a lot longer than you think to clean a patio. You’ll be surprised about the other items you can pressure wash too!

When Should I Pressure Wash?

Ideally, you should pressure wash your patio at least once a year. But, if you live in an area that is particularly prone to dirt and dust (like near a construction site), then you may need to do it more often.

Related: When Is The Best Time Of Year To Pressure Wash Your Patio And Driveway?

What Type of Other Techniques Works Best?

Method 1

Tools you will need: Garden hose, access to water, a stiff-bristled brush

Step 1. – Hose down the entire patio with water

Step 2. – Use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub the entire surface of the patio

Step 3. – Rinse with water

Method 2

Tools you will need: Baking Powder and vinegar, Garden sprayer, garden hose

Step 1. – Mix some of the baking powder and vinegar together in a garden sprayer

Step 2. – Spray the baking powder and vinegar mix all over the patio

Step 3. – Hose down the patio with water

Step 4. – Rinse with water

What is so special about baking soda and vinegar?

Baking soda and vinegar are a great choice for cleaning patios because they are natural and eco-friendly. They also work to break down any dirt or grime that is on the surface of the patio. Plus, they are affordable and easy to use.

When the two are mixed, there is a chain reaction that takes place that helps to remove any unwanted substances. The baking soda will help to neutralize the vinegar, while the vinegar will help to break down any dirt or grime.

Will vinegar damage pavers?

No, vinegar will not damage your pavers. However, ensure you fully rinse the area with water after using this method to avoid any vinegar residue.

Method 3

This method does use a form of chemical which is your dishwashing detergent, but it is still a great option if you want to avoid using harsh chemicals.

Tools you will need: Bucket, dishwashing detergent, warm water, stiff-bristled brush

Step 1. – Fill a bucket with warm water and dishwashing detergent

Step 2. – Scrub the entire surface of the patio with a stiff-bristled brush

Step 3. – Rinse with water off when you have finished

How Often Should I Clean My Patio?

It is best to clean your patio at least twice a year. At the beginning of Spring and at the end of the summer are ideal times. But, if you live in a particularly dusty or dirty area, then you may need to clean it more often.

Can I Use a Steam Cleaner?

A steam cleaner is a great option for cleaning patios because it uses no chemicals at all. Plus, it is very effective at removing dirt and grime.

Tools you will need: Steam cleaner, garden hose

Step 1. – Connect the steam cleaner to the garden hose

Step 2. – Turn on the steam cleaner and let it heat up

Step 3. – Sweep the steam cleaner over the entire surface of the patio

Step 4. – Rinse with water when you have finished

How To Clean Patio Without Water

There are not many ways to clean a patio without water. However, if you have a weed scraper, a stiff brush, or a wire brush, you can try one of the following methods:

Method 1

Tools you will need: Weed scraper, stiff brush, wire brush

Step 1. – Use the weed scraper to scrape off any dirt, dust, or leaves from the surface of the patio

Step 2. – Use a stiff brush to scrub the entire surface of the patio

Step 3. – Use a wire brush to get in between any cracks or crevices on the patio

Step 4. Use the brush to sweep away the debris you have just released from the cracks.

Method 2

Tools you will need: A stiff brush, weed scraper, Wet/dry Vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment.

Step 1. – Scrape any moss and dirt from the surface of the patio and between the cracks with a weed scraper and brush.

Step 2. – Vacuum up any loose debris with the wet/dry vacuum cleaner and hose attachment.

Remember that patios can be made from a variety of materials like concrete, bricks, stone, or tiles.

Should I Get My Pavers Cleaned by A Professional?

When choosing the right method for cleaning your patio, always take into consideration the material it is made from. If you are not sure which method to use, ask a professional for help.

FAQs

How do you clean a concrete patio without chemicals?

Pressure washing your concrete patio is the best way to clean it without using any chemicals. You can also mix baking soda and vinegar to the water, spray onto concrete, allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes, and then hose off.

How to clean unsealed concrete patio

You can clean an unsealed patio with a pressure washer. Just ensure the pressure washer is set to a low or medium setting to avoid damaging the surface. You can also mix baking soda and vinegar to the water, spray onto concrete, allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes, and then hose off.

How do you make homemade patio cleaner?

You can use baking powder and vinegar to clean your patio. Just mix the two together in a spray bottle and apply to the patio. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes before hosing off.

How do I clean oil stains from my patio?

If oil or grease has just been deposited, a clean towel or paper towels should be used to lightly blot (not rub) the spots. The majority of oil stains on pavers can be removed with liquid dish soap or laundry detergent. Apply the detergent directly to the stain and let it sit for 20-30 minutes before scrubbing it away with a nylon bristle brush.

How do you clean a patio without a power washer?

In order to clean your slabs without a pressure washer, you either need to use a homemade patio cleaner with household items you already have at home or a store-bought patio cleaner that will likely have powerful chemicals in the ingredients.

What is a good homemade concrete cleaner?

If you mix bleach with water and then add dishwashing detergent, this will make a great homemade concrete cleaner. The bleach and dishwashing detergent will help to break down the dirt and grime on your patio while the water will help to rinse it away.
Related: Household Goods That Make Excellent DIY Cleaners

Does white vinegar clean concrete?

Yes, in conjunction with baking powder, white vinegar can be an effective cleaner for concrete. The baking powder helps to scrub the surface while the vinegar helps to break down and remove any dirt, grease, or grime.

Can I use bleach on my patio?

Yes, you can use bleach on your concrete patio; however, you should test it in an inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire surface. Be sure to mix the bleach with water prior to use and always wear gloves and protective eyewear when using this or any other chemical.

Summary

You now have a few great options for how to clean your patio without using any harsh chemicals.

Always take into consideration the material your patio is made from before selecting a method. If you are not sure which method to use, ask a professional for help.

What have you used to clean your patio in the past?

Share with us in the comments below.

Some other useful articles:

Does Bleach Remove Black Spots On My Patio? 

The Cheapest Way to Lay a Patio (INC. THE BEST MATERIALS)

How To Get Rid Of Black Spots On Patio Slabs (Fast!)

Patio Laying Guide (In Just a Weekend)

The Patio Guide: (Everything You Needed to Know)

About the Author

Passionate about helping households transition to sustainable energy with helpful information and resources.

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