Two-ingredient method 'removes stains and mould' from decking without a pressure washer
Garden decking needs to be cleaned at least once a year to keep it looking its best. Cleaning decking will help to preserve the wood and will prevent the need for costly repairs.
With the weather looking likely to warm up next week, many Britons are getting their garden spaces prepared for summer.
As well as planting, mowing lawns and having a general tidy, gardeners also need to give their patios, decking or outdoor dining areas a thorough clean.
One of the most challenging outdoor areas to clean is decking. Over time, especially during the winter months, it can become covered in dirt, debris, mould, algae and moss.
With this in mind, Jimmy Englezos, senior brand manager from Ronseal has shared a simple two-ingredient method for cleaning decking - and it doesn't involve a pressure washer.
One surprisingly simple and popular method for cleaning decking is using bicarbonate of soda with some white vinegar.
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Baking soda can be bought for 65p from Tesco while vinegar can be picked up for 40p from Sainsbury's.
According to the experts, this method can be used on both natural wooden and composite decking surfaces.
The natural method can remove mould and mildew that has built up over the winter months, however, it's important to add plenty of water to the mixture.
Jimmy explained how to use the method: "Simply sprinkle some bicarbonate of soda across the decking surface before mixing one cup of vinegar into a bucket of warm, but not boiling, water.
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"Dip the bristles of a soft-touch brush into the solution and gently scrub the decking surface.
"The bicarbonate of soda will react with the diluted vinegar to help remove any stains, mildew, and mould.
"Make sure to thoroughly rinse the decking afterwards using a pressure washer or garden hose."
The experts also warned there's one item that should never be used on decking - bleach.
Bleach can corrode screws, nails and fasteners which can cause the decking to weaken.
Composite decking can also become discoloured and chip if bleach is used on it.
