A patio expert has shared a clever cleaning method that tackles moss, algae and grime safely and effectively – and it’s far cheaper than pressure washing
Nicola Roy Multimedia content creator
11:45, 24 Mar 2026
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The colder months can wreak havoc on your garden patio(Image: stigalenas via Getty Images)
With warmer weather on the way, it’s the perfect time to go out into the garden and tackle those long-postponed tasks. Many homeowners will be focusing on patios and driveways that have built up months’ worth of dirt, algae and moss throughout winter.
For many people, the immediate response is to reach for a pressure washer. However, according to patio specialist Bill Jarvis from Premium Paints, this approach could actually cause more harm than good. Instead, he suggests a straightforward household item costing a few pounds can often clean outdoor surfaces more safely and efficiently.
Bill highlighted that whilst pressure washers are popular, the powerful water jets can harm outdoor surfaces in ways people don’t expect.
He explained: “Pressure washers feel satisfying to use, but they can strip the surface layer from certain paving materials. The jet can also remove the sand between slabs or block paving, which is what helps keep everything stable.”
Moss and grime can be difficult to remove from a patio(Image: Getty)
Over time, this can leave patios uneven and create conditions that allow weeds and moss to return more often. However, there’s a cheap and effective solution – biological washing powder.
This method works differently by breaking down the organic material responsible for many outdoor stains, reports the Express.
The enzymes found in biological detergents are formulated to break down substances like grease, food and organic matter.
Bill continued: “That means algae, moss and general grime are exactly the sort of things it can tackle.”
If your patio is looking worse for wear, washing powder can be a massive help(Image: Getty)
How to clean your garden patio
Restoring your patio to perfect condition is simple. Fill a bucket with warm water and add one scoop of biological washing powder.
Apply the solution across the patio or driveway and allow it to sit for approximately 20 to 30 minutes. Scrub the area using a stiff outdoor brush, then rinse thoroughly with a garden hose.
Bill explained: “Giving the detergent time to sit is the key part. It allows the enzymes to start breaking down the dirt before you scrub, which makes the whole process much easier.”
A box of bio washing powder costs just £3.35 at Waitrose, making this an extremely budget-friendly solution. He noted that this approach is kinder to many standard paving materials, including concrete slabs and block paving.
Bill said: “With pressure washing, you’re relying purely on force. This method lets the cleaner do the work first.”
For persistent marks, he suggested repeating the detergent application instead of resorting to aggressive pressure washing.
He continued: “Two gentler cleans are usually far better for your patio than one very harsh one.”
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