Outdoor Cleaning Hacks

Summer is here and that means the back yard is a popular place to hang out.  The only problem is maybe the outdoor space does not look as good as it did last summer.  The colder months came and so did dirt, stains, and wear to your beautiful backyard.  We understand the frustration of having to clean up the yard before you can relax in it.  So we put together a list of cleaning ideas to make that dreaded clean up a bit easier.

 1. Backdoor, More like Blackdoor

It seems that no matter how much you clean or how much you try, the back doors always accumulate this black dirt that can seem impossible to remove.  To get these doors looking brand new again you will need vinegar, paper towels, and Q-tips.  Soak the paper towel in some vinegar and wipe the flat edges. Then, go back over it with a Q-tip to get all of the crevices.  Finally wipe the door dry with a clean paper towel.  

Idea from RVC | Click the picture for original Post |

2. Oil Stain Nightmare

Oil stains can ruin a driveway or a back yard patio.  They also can be incredibly hard to remove.  We found a hack that will remove these stains to restore your beautiful patio or driveway.  Get a bottle of Pour-n-Seal and pour it on the stain. Once it sits on the stain for a bit and becomes a powder, sweep it up.  An easy and effective way to restore your concrete. 

Idea from RVC | Click Picture for original post |

3. Doubt about the Grout

Having a window or screened in porch can be frustrating at times especially when it comes to having tile flooring.  It feels at time like the grout can never look as good as it did when it was first put in.  However this is far from true. You will want a bucket and some fresh air.  Add 7 cups of water, 1/2 cup of baking soda, 1/3 cup of ammonia ( or lemon juice), and 1/4 cup of vinegar.  Spray it to the grout, leave it to soak for about an hour, and scrub it viciously  with a brush.  

Idea from RVC | Click the photo for Original Post |

4. Clean Cushions

Most patio furniture whether it be a dining set, couch, or lounge chaise has beautiful cushions.  The sad part is when they sit through some rough weather and they end up looking 10 years older than they are.  Use a power water sprayer to remove some gunk.  I really like to use the product Tuff Stuff on fabric as well.  It seems to get the darker stains out of the cushions.  And lastly if you really want to keep your cushions looking brand new just get a cover.  Covers will prevent any unnecessary cleaning down the line.  

Picture from Quick and Dirty Tips |Click photo for original post |

Cover from The Outdoor Patio Store | Click picture for covers |

5. Natural Killer

Weeds.  They can ruin a front or back walkway.  Most weed killers that you buy in the store can be dangerous to pets and children.  That is why it is essential to have a weed killer that will only harm the weeds.  Here is a list of cleaners we found at The Garden Counselor.