Deep Clean Your Patio: Bleach & Power Washing Method

Updated at: 28/05/2025

Is your patio looking a little worse for wear? Years of sun, rain, and general use can leave even the sturdiest patio surfaces looking dull and dingy. Grime, mildew, and stubborn stains can quickly accumulate, transforming your outdoor oasis into an eyesore. Fortunately, restoring your patio to its former glory is achievable with a powerful combination: bleach and a power washer. This effective duo can tackle even the most tenacious dirt and grime, leaving your patio sparkling and inviting. Forget expensive professional cleaning – you can achieve professional-looking results yourself with readily available materials and a bit of elbow grease.

This powerful cleaning method is surprisingly simple, and we'll guide you through each step of the process, from preparing your patio to the final rinse. Ready to transform your outdoor space? Let's get started with our detailed, step-by-step guide on how to deep clean your patio using bleach and a power washer.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Bleach-based cleaner
  • Spray bottle
  • Brush
  • Hose
  • Power washer
  • Power washer attachment with scrub brush
Safety Guidelines
  • Always wear protective gear: This includes gloves, eye protection, and a long-sleeved shirt and pants to protect your skin from bleach and splashing water.
  • Ventilate the area well: Bleach fumes are harmful. Work on a breezy day or use a fan to circulate the air. Avoid breathing in the fumes.
  • Never mix bleach with other cleaning products, especially ammonia. This creates toxic gases that can be lethal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preparation

    • Move patio furniture.
    • Hose down the patio and surrounding landscape to dilute the cleaner and protect vegetation.
    Hose down the patio and surrounding landscape to dilute the cleaner and protect vegetation.Hose down the patio and surrounding landscape to dilute the cleaner and protect vegetation.
    Preparation

  2. Test and Application

    • Perform a test area to ensure the cleaner doesn't discolor the stone.
    • Apply the bleach-based cleaner evenly to the patio using a brush or spray bottle.
    • Allow the solution to dwell for about a minute.
    • Rinse the patio with a hose.
    Rinse the patio with a hose.
    Test and Application

  3. Power Washing

    • Apply the bleach-based cleaner using a spray bottle for even coverage.
    • Power wash the patio using the attachment with the scrub brush, maintaining low pressure to avoid damaging the stone.
    • Rinse the patio thoroughly.
    Rinse the patio thoroughly.Rinse the patio thoroughly.
    Power Washing

Read more: Reinforce Wobbly Deck Railings: The Lag Bolt Method

Tips

  • Regulate the pressure of the power washer to avoid damaging the patio.
  • Be careful around joints to prevent them from being blown out.
  • Use the power washer attachment to help regulate the water and clean more effectively.
  • Let the tool do the work.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using too much bleach

Reason: Excessive bleach can damage patio materials, especially those made of softer stone or wood, and may not necessarily lead to a cleaner surface.
Solution: Always dilute bleach according to product instructions and test a small, inconspicuous area first.

2. Ignoring pre-cleaning

Reason: Large debris like leaves, twigs, and loose dirt can clog the power washer nozzle and damage your patio surface during pressure washing.
Solution: Sweep or thoroughly rinse your patio with water before applying any cleaning solution or using a power washer.

FAQs

Is using bleach and a power washer damaging to my patio?
While effective, bleach and pressure washing can be harsh. Always test a small, inconspicuous area first. For delicate materials like some types of stone or wood, consider gentler cleaning methods. Also, avoid using too high a pressure setting on your power washer, as this can damage the surface. Using a lower pressure setting and multiple passes is preferable.