How to Clean a Screened in Patio

Clean your screened-in patio seasonally to avoid too much dirt build up.

Screened-in patios act as peaceful places of refuge -- sanctuaries that keep you safe from the elements while you enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of the outdoors. The inviting nature of a screened-in patio also invites dust and detritus, which builds up over time. Because every screened-in patio is different, each one requires slightly different cleaning methods. However, some common cleaning strategies will spruce up most screened-in patio varieties.

Things You'll Need

• Broom or leaf blower
• Ammonia
• Two buckets
• Hose
• Scrub brush
• White vinegar
• Mop

Instructions

1. Remove any furniture, plants, grills, décor or other items from your screened-in patio. You'll want to start with a completely clear space so that you don't get items that reside on your patio dirty.

2. Sweep the patio's surface and gently shake free any cobwebs, spider webs, leaves or other debris from the screens. Sweep all the dirt and debris out the patio's door and dispose of it. Do this before cleaning with water, otherwise you'll be left with stubborn mud.

3. Fill a bucket with a solution of three parts water and one part ammonia.

4. Hose down your patio's screens once the area is clear.

5. Dip your brush into the ammonia solution and gently scrub the window screens while they are still moist. Use rotating strokes to apply the solution.

6. Hose the screens once again. If you find any trouble spots, re-scrub them with the ammonia solution and rinse thoroughly.

7. Fill another bucket with a solution of three parts water and one part white vinegar. This solution is safe and effective for use on concrete, cement, wood and brick surfaces.

8. Spray down the surface of the patio's floor with the hose.

9. Dip a mop in the vinegar solution and mop the patio floor. Use the scrub brush for any stubborn areas, such as dirt clods or mold build up.

10. Allow the patio to air dry. Try to keep yourself and family from tracking through the patio while it dries, otherwise you may be left with unsightly footprints. Reassemble your patio space once it is complete dry.

Tips & Warnings

• While your patio dries, use the opportunity for cleaning your patio accessories while they're sitting outside.

• Avoid getting ammonia and vinegar solutions on plants and grass while cleaning.

References

• Good Housekeeping: Speed Cleaning: Pack Up Your Patio
• Mrs. Clean: Cleaning Window Screens
• Grandma's Wisdom: Grandma's Vinegar Cleaning Tips and Tricks

Resources

• Apartment Therapy: How To: Clean Patio Furniture