The sunshine is back and that means: time to head outside! But before you flop down on your lounge set, it's wise to give your terrace a good clean first. A clean terrace not only looks better, it's also safer (less slippery!) and it extends the lifespan of your garden furniture.
At Boender Outdoor Garden Furniture, we're happy to help you along with handy tips to freshen up your terrace.
1. Start by tidying up
Remove all garden furniture, plant pots and accessories from your terrace. This way you can reach everywhere properly and prevent things from getting wet or dirty. Bonus: it's also a good moment to wipe down your furniture with a damp cloth.
2. Sweep thoroughly first
Before you start using water or cleaning products, it's smart to sweep well first. Remove leaves, sand, moss and other dirt with a sturdy broom. This prevents everything from sticking to your terrace when it gets wet.
3. Warm water & green soap = golden combination
For many types of terraces (tiles, concrete, wood), a mixture of warm water and green soap is often enough. Just scrub with a stiff brush and you'll see the difference straight away. And it smells fresh too!
4. Pressure washer? Only if really necessary
A pressure washer can be very handy, but use it with care. Especially on wooden or grouted terraces, the water can cause damage or blast out the grout. Unsure? Start on a low setting or test a small corner first.
5. Troubled by green algae?
Green algae develops due to moisture and shade, and can make your terrace slippery. Fortunately, special green algae cleaners are available. Always use these according to the instructions on the packaging. Prefer something natural? Try cleaning vinegar mixed with water (1 to 1). Let it soak in and then scrub away!
6. Dry thoroughly
After cleaning, it's important to let your terrace dry well. Especially if you want to put your garden furniture back straight away. Wet wood or concrete can cause mould or leave stains on your furniture.
7. Bonus: show your garden furniture some love
Now that your terrace is gleaming, it would be a shame to put dirty furniture back. Clean your garden furniture with a soapy water mixture using mild soap, and store cushions properly or spray them with a gentle stream. By the way, at Boender Outdoor Garden Furniture you'll also find protective covers – practical and attractive!
How do I clean terrace tiles?
Terrace tiles quickly develop a grey appearance or even green algae from weather and wind. Fortunately, cleaning is easier than you think. Here's how to do it:
- Step 1: Sweep the terrace clean. Remove leaves, sand and other loose dirt with a broom.
- Step 2: Make a cleaning solution. Mix warm water with green soap or a splash of cleaning vinegar.
- Step 3: Start scrubbing! Use a stiff broom or terrace brush and work in strips. Let the solution soak in for stubborn dirt.
- Step 4: Rinse thoroughly. Use a garden hose or a gentle stream from the pressure washer.
- Tip: Don't use aggressive products like bleach. These can damage your tiles and are bad for the environment.
Are your tiles still not completely clean? Then you can try a special terrace tile cleaner that is safe for your type of tile.
Cleaning a wooden terrace
A wooden terrace looks beautiful, but requires extra attention when cleaning. Wood is a natural material that can be damaged more quickly by moisture, dirt and algae. Here's how to keep it looking good:
- Sweep regularly to prevent leaves and dirt from building up.
- Use lukewarm water with green soap and a soft brush or broom to scrub.
- Avoid the pressure washer, as it can damage the wood or cause splinters.
- Green algae? Make a mixture of warm water and cleaning vinegar (1 to 1), let it soak for a while and then gently brush the wood clean.
- Let it dry well and treat the wood with a protective oil or stain if necessary to prevent greying and wear.
With a little care, your wooden terrace will stay beautiful and sturdy for years – perfect for long summer evenings!
Enjoy!
With a clean terrace and fresh furniture, you're all set for summer. Invite friends over, fire up the barbecue or enjoy a good book in the sun in peace and quiet.
Would you like more tips for your garden or are you looking for new garden furniture? Then have a look at our webshop – at Boender Outdoor Garden Furniture you'll find everything to turn your garden into a real outdoor paradise.
