Moss can be a real hazard on paving slabs and pathways – but cleaning fans have shared a simple washing powder method that removes it without a pressure washer or scrubbing
Patio moss can look nice, but it is a slip hazard(Image: mtreasure via Getty Images)
Moss growing on paving slabs can add a certain charm to gardens. However, many homeowners find moss unattractive, and it poses a real slipping risk.
The growth can prove dangerous, particularly in garden areas with pathways. Fans of cleaning influencer Mrs Hinch have shared their top methods for eliminating moss without splashing out on a pressure washer, spending time scrubbing or resorting to harsh chemicals, such as bleach.
In the Mrs Hinch Cleaning Tips Facebook group, one user sought advice on tackling what seemed to be moss on her patio, reports the Express.
Yaz Elizabeth posted: “Hey all, we moved recently and have noticed our back garden, where the slabs are, keeps going green, almost like mould. We jet-washed it a week or two ago, but it’s back again. Does anyone know what is causing this? Or if there’s anything I can use to stop it coming back? It also does seem to stain.”
While several group members suggested chemical solutions, the vast majority championed an approach using something most households already have – laundry detergent.
Tracey McKeown said: “Sprinkle Daz washing powder on it then leave for the rain to wash off or hose it.”
Joelle Scannell said: “I’ve been told to use Daz also. I haven’t tried it, but a lady I know swears by it.”
Kill patio moss in 15 minutes so it ‘never returns’ with 1 household item cleaners love(Image: Getty)
Gill Breaks shared her experience, saying: “I sprinkle Aldi’s biological washing powder on the patio and driveway, where we get green moss. Washing powder kills the moss -just sprinkle; you don’t need to scrub-it looks like snow! We get a lot on the drive; it’s in the shade. My neighbour asked me about it, did the same, and it got rid of his moss too.”
Sonia Hunter offered her advice: “Sprinkle with soap powder whilst the ground is damp so it can absorb the powder.”
Linda Waddington recounted her own success story, stating: “I had the same problem, and being in a huge area was also a problem.
I used a box of biodegradable washing powder. Just sprinkle over the moss and leave for 15 minutes. That was two years ago, and it’s never returned.”
Michelle King provided further guidance: “Sprinkle washing powder and leave on for a few minutes before washing off. It’s effective at getting rid of any weeds too.”
Debbie Mc added her unique method: “Ok, this sounds weird, but it worked a treat for me. I have a part of my patio that doesn’t really get the sun and always ends up green and covered in moss.
“My friend (who has an immaculate garden/patio) told me to dampen the area and cover it with washing powder-it kills all moss and weeds.”
She continued: “So I did exactly that, and after a day, it started to go brown as it was dying. Three days later, I rinsed it off, and it came away like it was dust. Yes, it takes a few days, but it takes virtually no effort at all.”
Mrs Hinch fans recommend using laundry powder to rid patios of moss(Image: Getty)
When quizzed about her preferred brand of washing powder, Debbie replied: “Nope, no particular brand. I tend to buy the cheapest there is to be honest.
“When I was told about it, I googled it because I thought someone was having a laugh here, but it seems that quite a lot of people use this method.
“Honestly, try it. Cheap washing powder all over the moss, you’ll see it change as it starts to die.”
This unconventional method isn’t just endorsed by fans of Mrs Hinch. Ben Hilton, a gardening expert at The Yard and Garden, also vouches for its effectiveness.
He elaborated: “Detergent works by breaking down the cell walls of moss, causing the plant to dehydrate and die. It is most effective when used sparingly and only on the moss itself.”
Comments are closed.