Tools and Materials
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Project Overview: Cleaning a Concrete Patio
Cleaning a concrete patio is a simple DIY job that can be completed in a few hours with a little patience and elbow grease. Here’s a quick rundown of the most important steps to follow to get your patio spic and span so you can plan your work:
- Sweep away surface dirt and debris using an outdoor broom.
- Wet the patio with a garden hose to loosen any stuck-on debris.
- Use a commercial outdoor cleaner designed for concrete patios.
- Allow the patio to dry.
When to Clean Your Concrete Patio
Cleaning your concrete patio regularly helps maintain its appearance and longevity. Consider cleaning it at these times:
- At the start of spring to remove grime accumulated over winter.
- After a rainstorm, to remove leaves and debris that may have washed onto the patio.
- After a party, barbecue or large gathering to clean up spilled food, drink or muddy footprints.
- When you notice oil, rust or grease stains — addressing these promptly can prevent them from setting into porous concrete.
- Every few months for general maintenance.
How to Clean a Concrete Patio: A Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps to learn the best way to clean a concrete patio.
Step 1: Clear the Patio
Begin by preparing your concrete patio for cleaning. Remove all furniture, flower pots and any other items that may get in the way. You’ll want a clutter-free work zone to ensure you don’t miss a spot while cleaning and to prevent your items from being damaged by any cleaning products.
Step 2: Thoroughly Sweep the Patio Surface
Use an outdoor broom to sweep away leaves, dirt and other debris. A broom with stiff bristles will help remove as much surface dirt as possible, making the rest of the job easier.
Step 3: Spray the Area with a Garden Hose
Use a garden hose with a spray nozzle to wet the entire patio surface. This will help dislodge and wash away any stuck-on dirt.
Step 4: Use a Concrete Cleaning Solution
Apply a concrete, driveway or patio cleaner according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure the cleaner is safe for the surface and follow all safety precautions.
Before applying the cleaner to the entire patio, test it on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn’t damage the surface. Use a stiff-bristle deck brush to scrub the patio, paying close attention to stained or heavily soiled areas. Some products may require a waiting period to allow the cleaner to break down the grime.
Be sure to wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from chemicals as you work. Wearing work gloves will also protect your hand from blisters.
Step 5: Rinse the Patio
Once you’ve finished scrubbing, use the garden hose to wash away the cleaning solution. Make sure all residue is removed to prevent streaks or a slippery film from forming.
Step 6: Spot-Clean Tough Stains if Necessary
Some stains, such as oil or grease, may require special attention:
- Baking soda is effective at absorbing oil that hasn’t already soaked in to concrete. Sprinkle it on stained areas, let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes, then scrub with the deck brush and rinse.
- For mildew or mold, mix 1 cup of water with 1 cup of white vinegar. Scrub the affected areas thoroughly and rinse.
Step 7: Allow the Patio to Dry
Let the patio dry completely before walking on it or replacing the furniture. Once it’s clean and dry, consider applying a concrete sealer to enhance durability and resistance to stains. For help, see How to Seal Concrete. A sealed surface is easier to clean and requires less maintenance.
Want to make quick work of cleaning a concrete patio? Consider using a pressure washer. Our helpful step-by-step guide will show you the details, including important safety precautions and how to care for your sealed patio after the job is done.
How to Maintain a Concrete Patio
Here are some tips to help you keep your patio clean year-round:
- Sweep regularly to prevent buildup and address spills or stains immediately. The longer they sit, the harder they are to remove.
- Rinse the patio with a hose periodically to remove dust.
- Trim nearby plants to reduce moss and mildew growth.
- Get rid of weeds to prevent them from overtaking cracks and the patio perimeter.
Ready to Clean Your Patio?
Learning how to clean a concrete patio not only improves its appearance but also helps extend the life of your outdoor space. The key to successfully removing concrete patio stains is using the right cleaning tools and products. Here are some of the top product categories Lowe’s customers rely on when tackling their own DIY patio cleaning projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions Lowe’s customers have about cleaning a concrete patio.
What Is the Best Way to Clean a Concrete Patio?
The best method is to use a concrete cleaner and scrub the surface with a stiff-bristle deck brush. For stubborn stains, scrubbing with baking soda is an effective spot treatment.
Can You Clean a Concrete Patio Without a Power Washer?
Yes. You can use an outdoor broom to sweep away surface debris, then use a deck brush and concrete cleaner to wash away grime and stains.
What Is a Good Recipe for Homemade Patio Cleaner?
Mix a solution of 1 cup of white vinegar and 2 cups of warm water. Apply it to the surface and scrub with a stiff brush. Then thoroughly rinse the solution away.