Easy Ways to Clean Your Patio Pavers Without a Pressure Washer

Are your patio pavers looking a little worse for wear? Not everyone has access to a pressure washer, and sometimes you might prefer a gentler method to protect your paving stones from damage. Here's how you can get your patio looking pristine again with just some simple tools and household products.

Essential Tools and Supplies

Before you begin, gather a few basic items:

• Garden hose with a spray nozzle
• Stiff outdoor broom or a scrub brush
• Rubber gloves (for handling cleaning solutions)
• 5-gallon bucket

Simple Cleaning Solutions

Depending on the level of dirt and type of stains, you can choose a suitable cleaning solution from the following options:

1. Mild Dish Soap Solution: This is great for general dirt. Mix a few drops of liquid dish soap with warm water in a bucket. This mixture is gentle and effective for regular cleaning tasks.
2. Vinegar Solution: For tougher stains, a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar can be more effective. Vinegar’s natural acidity helps break down grime and mildew. However, it’s important to test this on a small area first, as vinegar can be harsh on some types of natural stone.
3. Baking Soda Paste: For the most stubborn stains, make a paste using baking soda and water. Baking soda is mildly abrasive, which makes it good for scrubbing away tough spots without damaging the pavers.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide

• Step 1: Clear and Prep the Area - Remove furniture and other items from the patio. Sweep away loose dirt, debris, and leaves.
• Step 2: Wet the Pavers - Use a garden hose to thoroughly soak the pavers, which helps the cleaning solution penetrate deeper.
• Step 3: Apply Cleaning Solution - For light cleaning, scrub the soapy water over the pavers with your broom or brush. For tougher stains, apply the vinegar solution or baking soda paste.
• Step 4: Scrub - Use the broom or brush to scrub the pavers clean. Apply more elbow grease for those stubborn areas.
• Step 5: Rinse - Thoroughly rinse the pavers with your hose to remove all soap or cleaning solution.
• Step 6: Dry and Enjoy - Allow the pavers to air dry completely. Replace your furniture and enjoy your refreshed patio!

Optional! Re-sanding and Sealing

After cleaning, you might notice the sand between pavers needs replenishing. Sweep new sand into the joints, and consider sealing the pavers to protect them from future stains. Sealing is recommended every few years, depending on exposure and wear.

Keeping your patio pavers clean doesn’t require heavy equipment. With these simple methods, you can maintain a beautiful and welcoming outdoor space. Stay tuned to our DIY Training Center blog series for more tips and tricks to enhance your home’s exterior without the need for professional equipment.