Outdoor Deep Cleaning: Tips to Get Your Outdoor Space Squeaky Clean

Deep Clean vs. Regular Clean
A regular clean is what most of us do each week to keep our outdoor space tidy. A deep clean is more about restoring your space to its former glory by focusing on the areas that you wouldn’t typically clean on a weekly basis. You’ll need a few extra tools and little more elbow grease to get this job done!

Step 1: Clear the Decks (Or Patio, Porch, Stoop, or Yard!)
In order to do a deep clean, you must first clear your space and assess the areas that need extra attention. Don’t get stuck on the details just yet. Use a leaf blower or broom to gather the last of those pesky autumn leaves. Spray down stoops, decks, patios, porches, planters, and siding with a standard spray nozzle. Use a heavy-duty bow rake in any garden or wooded areas to collect sticks and branches that may have fallen during the winter months. Things should be looking better already.

Recommended Tools:

• Vinyl hose and standard spray nozzle

• Broom

• Leaf blower

• Heavy-duty bow rake

• Lawn and leaf bags

Step 2: Dig Deep!
The devil’s in the details during this phase. Use a high-pressure spray on wood decking to remove any stubborn dirt or debris, and normal pressure for stone and concrete. Carefully apply outdoor cleaner to other surfaces and finish by rinsing with the hose. Focus on areas that hands and bare feet will touch—such as steps, patio floors, handrails, top rails, etc.

Recommended Tools:

• Patio/deck bristle brush

• Outdoor cleaner

• 1-gallon plastic tank sprayer

• High-pressure spray nozzle

• Standard spray nozzle

• Vinyl hose

Step 3: Now It’s Time to Bring It All Together
Give a gentle clean to the items you removed from your space before you bring them back. Clean furniture, fixtures, umbrellas, grills, etc. with a mild cleaner or soap and water according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Spray down using a standard spray nozzle to avoid damaging anything. Take the time to clean trash cans thoroughly and consider storing them in a Suncast Stow-Away^® Horizontal Shed—it will greatly improve your view!

Recommended Tools:

• Vinyl hose and standard spray nozzle

• Bucket

• Soft bristle bucket brush

• Mild cleaner

• Soap and water

Step 4: Sit Back, Relax, and Enjoy
Phew! Giving your outdoor space a deep clean is no small task, but the time and effort you spend now will have a lasting effect for the entire season. Now take a step back and reward yourself for a job well done!