The best patio cleaners for effortless cleaning 2024

No matter how big your outdoor space is, buying the best patio cleaners will ensure it stays nice and clean. It can feel like a massive chore, especially if your patio has succumbed to dirt, algae, mould, stains and moss, but giving it that little extra care, whether you're using a pressure washer or scrubbing brush, will bring it back to its former glory.

The patio is our go-to space to catch up with friends, play with the kids, relax and even work during the warmer months. And for that reason, we want to keep it looking its best. The good news is that you can tackle the grime with easy-to-apply patio cleaners — most of which you just spray on and leave, simple as that! It takes minimal effort, a big yes in our books, and your patio will be looking good as new in no time. So, if you're looking for the best weed killer for block paving and more, read on.

However, it's worth keeping in mind that the results won't be instant, so don't be too surprised if, at first, it looks the same. Typically, you'll have to wait for a few hours before you can notice any difference. We would recommend waiting a couple of days to truly see the full effects of your patio cleaner. Many patio cleaner solutions are concentrated, and you'll need to dilute them with water before being applied by hand from a bucket or watering can.

Alternatively, some patio cleaners are detergents that you can use with a sprayer or pressure washer - those with patio cleaner attachments are ideal for targeting patio grime. There are a number of different wire brush tools you can try too to remove weeds and grass from creeping in between the bricks or slabs. Each is designed to give you a beautiful-looking patio; you can find the best of each down below.

Best patio cleaner chemicals

How we chose the best patio cleaners

All of these patio cleaner chemicals have been hand-selected by our team of Modern Gardens shopping experts. We carefully considered features, quantity and value in our selection of the best. Our team has spent hours investigating and researching patio cleaner chemicals to make it easier for you to find the very best, and we'd never recommend a product we don't believe in.

Where possible, we also test and share the latest and best products you should know about. And with help from Modern Gardens Magazine, Garden News and Garden Answers, we share expert gardening knowledge to help you get the most from your product.

Different patio cleaners in detail

Patio cleaner solution

Available as a ready-to-go formula or a concentrate that needs diluting, patio cleaner solutions are designed to target algae, mould, moss and more.

You can also clean your patio using soap or vinegar mix solution, though this will require much more effort to scrub the areas clean and bleach - not an eco-friendly option.

Pressure washer

With a pressure washer, you'll get more immediate results, as the water pressure will blast the dirt to oblivion, but if you don't already own a pressure washer, it makes for a more expensive upfront cost. Pressure washers are superb for delivering a quick (and satisfying) clean, and you can even find budget pressure washers that are under £100.

Wire brush tool

These tools are designed to remove various types of lichen, fungi, weeds and more from your patio. Designed much like a household vacuum, these electric tools sweep over your patio with a tough wire, steel or nylon brush rolling at high-speed to remove debris and dirt from the surface and crevices without the need for chemicals.

Patio cleaner chemicals buyers guide

Ingredients: If you have a pet, you'll want to be particularly wary of the ingredients in your patio cleaner, so they're non-toxic to your furry friend. Many contain ammonia which is toxic, whilst others contain bleach, which you'll need to keep pets away from until it's completely dry. If you can keep your pet away from the patio whilst you wait for it to dry, those labelled as pet-safe or organic are a good choice. Alternatively, consider a pressure washer or wire brush tool that doesn't require chemicals.

Budget: Fortunately, most patio cleaner solutions are reasonably budget-friendly, but they are single-use and won't work instantly. If you have the budget, investing in a pressure washer or wire brush tool could save you money in the long run. Plus, a pressure washer can be used on all sorts, not just the patio, making it a versatile and eco-friendly option.

Required equipment: Consider what else you'll need to get the job done. Some patio cleaners are super easy to apply - you can simply spray on and leave, whilst others may require you to do some scrubbing or require the aid of a pressure washer. Make sure you've got all the equipment you need to get your patio cleaned efficiently.

Type of dirt: There are three main types of dirt that need ousting; algae, moss, and dirt. For dirt or oil, consider a more powerful patio cleaner solution. Moss can be removed using a moss killer, whilst algae requires an algae remover. Most patio cleaner solutions will identify what they're best for cleaning, but for those more embedded areas of lichen and dirt, you'll likely need to use extra elbow grease.

Quantity: How big is your patio? Most patio cleaner solutions will come with a guide as to how big an area the solution will cover. Make sure you've got enough for the job.

How to clean your patio through the seasons

If you're looking to keep your patio spick and span, but aren't sure how to keep it looking its best during the passing seasons, here's a short guide to staying on top of any mould or dirt throughout the year:

Winter: During the cold and slippery months, it is common to use salt to de-ice the patio, however, de-icing salt can cause discolouration on your patio. Look for brands that are non-staining and less corrosive than standard brown rock salt or grit.

Spring: After the wear and tear over the winter months, you should give your patio a thorough clean from all the dirt and grime. A literal spring clean! This is the prime time to check the joints between the slabs, as they might need repointing.

Summer: This is most likely the time you will be on the patio, so make sure to clean up any spillages or mess as they happen to minimise any long-term staining.

Autumn: Crunchy autumn leaves can stain your patio if left over the months, so it is good to keep up regular maintenance and sweep your patio frequently.

Alternative patio cleaning methods

Pressure washing and using a patio cleaner are the easiest ways to clean your patio, but if you'd prefer to use what you already have in the cupboards and don't mind getting on your hands and knees and putting in that extra effort, you can try using the soap, vinegar, or bleach method.

The soap method

Step 1: Get a bucket with hot water and mix in some soap or washing-up liquid

Step 2: Pour the soapy water over the area you want to clean

Step 3: Use a hard-bristled brush to scrub the area

Step 4: Rinse off the area with new clean water

Step 5: Leave it for 24 hours and repeat the process if necessary.

The vinegar method

Step 1: Clear the area from furniture, sweep the area, and remove any weeds

Step 2: Get a bucket and add a solution of half water and half vinegar

Step 3: Pour the bucket of solution over the patio and wait 20 minutes

Step 4: Use a hard-bristled brush to scrub the area

Step 5: Mop up the area with clean water.

The bleach method

Step 1: In either a bucket or a watering can (a watering-can works best as it gives you more control), mix the water with bleach. The best ratio is five parts water to one part bleach

Step 2: Pour the solution over the area you want to clean, and try to avoid pouring it over any plants and flowers

Step 3: Use a hard-bristled brush to scrub the area, white foam should start to build up

Step 4: Leave it for 15 minutes

Step 5: Rinse off the area with new clean water.

What to read next:

Best electric pressure washers to tackle dirt and grime

Best Kärcher pressure washers for a powerful yard clean

Best cordless pressure washer for fast cleaning

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Eleanor Weaver is the Deputy Homes & Garden Product Editor for Modern Gardens, specialising in outdoor furniture, décor, and tools. She's always looking out for inspiration online for stylish and affordable designs, and enjoys spending time in nature.