As an outdoor enthusiast, I understand the joy of having a beautiful and clean outdoor space. From the refreshing green of the garden to the inviting allure of the patio, a pristine outdoor area can be a source of comfort, relaxation, and pride. But let’s face it, keeping this space clean can sometimes be a daunting task!
Dirt, leaves, and weather elements can quickly turn your tranquil retreat into a mess. But don’t worry, I’ve discovered some tricks to make the cleaning process easier, more efficient, and even enjoyable. Here are 12 ways I’ve made my outdoor space easier to clean.
1. Invest in Weather-Resistant Furniture
In my experience, one of the best investments for an outdoor space is weather-resistant furniture. Not only does it last longer, but it’s also easier to clean. Weather-resistant furniture is designed to withstand different weather conditions, be it rain, snow, or heat. This means that you won’t have to worry about damage or excessive dirt accumulation.
For instance, I swapped my wooden garden chairs for metal ones with a special weather-resistant finish. The result? Less time spent scrubbing off dirt, mold, or mildew. And during the winter months, I don’t stress over potential snow or water damage. It’s a win-win situation!
2. Use Outdoor Rugs
Outdoor rugs are not only a great way to add style and color to your patio or deck but also a practical tool for keeping the area clean. They serve as a barrier, catching dirt, leaves, and other debris that could otherwise end up on your outdoor floor.
I have placed a couple of outdoor rugs in strategic areas in my outdoor space — one at the entrance of the patio and another under the dining table. These rugs catch most of the dirt and debris, making my cleaning routine much quicker and easier. And the best part? Outdoor rugs are easy to clean. A simple shake or hose down, and they’re good as new!
3. Install a Pergola or Canopy
A pergola or canopy is not just an aesthetic feature for an outdoor space. It also serves as a protective cover, reducing the amount of dirt and debris that fall directly onto your furniture and flooring. When I installed a pergola over my patio, I noticed a significant decrease in the amount of leaves and bird droppings I had to clean.
Moreover, a pergola or canopy can provide shade and protection from rain. This means less weather damage to your furniture and flooring, resulting in less frequent and less intensive cleaning.
4. Use Mulch in Your Garden
Mulch is a gardener’s best friend. It not only enriches the soil and helps plants thrive but also keeps the garden cleaner. By acting as a barrier between the soil and the air, mulch reduces dust and dirt that might otherwise be blown onto your patio or deck.
I’ve found that using mulch in my garden has significantly reduced the amount of dirt I have to sweep off my outdoor flooring. It’s also minimized the need for weeding, making garden maintenance easier. Just remember to replace the mulch regularly to maintain its effectiveness and appearance.
5. Choose Easy-to-Clean Plants
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When selecting plants for your outdoor space, consider their maintenance requirements. Some plants drop leaves or petals frequently, while others attract pests or produce a lot of pollen. These elements can create more work for you when cleaning.
For example, I replaced my old, messy shrubs with evergreen plants that keep their leaves year-round and don’t drop as much debris. I also chose plants that don’t attract a lot of insects or create a lot of pollen. This has made my outdoor cleaning routine much easier.
6. Install Gutters
Gutters are important for directing rainwater away from your house. However, they can also collect leaves, twigs, and other debris that can end up in your outdoor space. By installing a gutter guard, you can prevent this mess and make your outdoor space easier to clean.
I installed a gutter guard a few years ago and it has significantly reduced the amount of debris I have to clean from my outdoor space. Plus, it prevents clogs in the gutters themselves, which can lead to water damage in the house.
7. Use a Leaf Blower
A leaf blower is a fantastic tool for outdoor cleaning. It’s much quicker and more efficient than a broom for clearing leaves, dirt, and other debris from your outdoor space.
For example, I use my leaf blower to quickly clear my deck and patio after a windy day or during the fall when leaves are abundant. It’s a real time-saver and makes the cleaning process much easier.
8. Create a Simple Cleaning Routine
Having a regular cleaning routine can make maintaining your outdoor space less overwhelming. This routine can be as simple as sweeping the patio once a week or wiping down the furniture every few days.
I’ve found that having a routine not only keeps my outdoor space clean but also makes the cleaning process feel less like a chore. I know exactly what needs to be done and when, so there’s no guesswork or procrastination.
9. Use Protective Covers for Furniture
Protective covers are a great way to keep outdoor furniture clean. They shield your furniture from dirt, debris, and weather elements, reducing the need for frequent cleaning.
I cover my furniture whenever I’m not using it, especially during bad weather or the off-season. This has significantly reduced the amount of time I spend cleaning my outdoor furniture.
10. Keep a Trash Can and Ashtray Handy
Having a trash can and ashtray in your outdoor space can prevent a lot of mess. It encourages people to dispose of their trash properly, rather than leaving it around to be cleaned up later.
I’ve placed a stylish, weather-resistant trash can and ashtray in my outdoor space, and it’s made a big difference. There’s less litter to pick up, and the area stays cleaner.
11. Install a Deck Box for Storage
A deck box is a useful addition to any outdoor space. It provides storage for outdoor items like cushions, toys, and gardening tools, preventing them from cluttering up your space.
I use my deck box to keep my outdoor space tidy and organized. It’s much easier to clean an area when there’s less stuff in the way!
12. Keep Cleaning Supplies Nearby
Last but not least, keep your outdoor cleaning supplies nearby. This way, you can quickly and easily clean up any messes as they occur.
I keep a small storage box with cleaning supplies in my outdoor space. It contains everything I need for quick clean-ups, including a small broom, dustpan, and cleaning cloths. This makes it easier to keep my outdoor space clean and inviting all the time.