Jet wash your way to a cleaner home this summer, because let’s face it, once the British weather takes a turn, it’s game over for outdoor chores. Whether it’s your patio, bins, garden furniture or exterior walls, there’s no better time than now, while it’s still warm and dry, to tackle those grime-heavy jobs with your trusty pressure washer. A good jet wash not only improves your home’s kerb appeal, but also prevents long-term build-up that becomes much harder to shift come winter.
Outdoor cleaning checklist
So, grab your pressure washer, roll up your sleeves, and get through this outdoor cleaning checklist before the drizzle sets in.
- Patio & Driveway – Restore the Shine Beneath Your Feet
Few things transform your outdoor space as dramatically as a freshly jet-washed patio or driveway. Over the months, moss, algae, dirt and BBQ drips can turn those once-lovely paving stones into a dull and slippery mess.
How to Jet Wash It:
- Start by sweeping away loose debris.
- Apply patio cleaner or a mild detergent for stubborn grime or organic buildup.
- Use a medium pressure setting to avoid damaging grout or stonework.
- Work in sections, moving in straight lines to avoid streaks.
Tip: Pressure washing patios regularly keeps your paving looking like new and prevents moss from becoming a slippery hazard, especially important as the damp season approaches.
Bonus Tip: Don’t forget to reapply jointing sand or sealant if your patio needs it post-wash. It helps maintain stability and slows down the regrowth of weeds.
- Wheelie Bins – A Smell-Free Start to Autumn
No one enjoys cleaning the bins, but that doesn’t mean they should be left to fester. Warm weather combined with leftover food or waste makes your wheelie bins a hotspot for bacteria, flies, and some truly unpleasant odours.
How to Jet Wash It:
- Empty the bin and give it a quick rinse.
- Apply a disinfectant or a mix of white vinegar and baking soda to the interior.
- Let it sit for 10–15 minutes before blasting it clean with a jet washer.
- Leave the bin open to dry thoroughly in the sun.
Not only does this keep your bin area clean and odour-free, but it also discourages pests like maggots from taking an interest.
Tip: Jet washing wheelie bins is a quick and easy way to eliminate summer odours and maintain a hygienic outdoor space.
- Garden Furniture – A Fresh Look Without the Elbow Grease
If your garden chairs and tables have been exposed to the elements, they likely need a little TLC before going back into storage. Jet washing outdoor furniture removes mould, bird droppings, pollen and the build-up of dirt from daily use.
How to Jet Wash It:
- Use a lower pressure setting for plastic or wood; aluminium can usually handle a bit more force.
- Test on an inconspicuous area first to avoid stripping paint or damaging the finish.
- Consider applying a specialist furniture cleaner beforehand if the build-up is severe.
- Dry thoroughly to prevent mildew when stored.
Bonus: While you’re at it, check for rust, cracks, or screws that need tightening.
Tip: Jet washing your outdoor furniture helps extend its lifespan and ensures it’s fresh, clean, and ready for those spontaneous summer BBQs with guests.
4. Exterior Walls & Fences – Pressure Wash Your Way to a Brighter Home
Your home’s exterior walls and fences are constantly exposed to pollution, weather, and biological growth like algae or mildew. A good pressure wash clears off months (or years) of grime and brightens your property instantly.
How to Jet Wash It:
- Use a wide-angle spray nozzle for broader coverage.
- Apply an exterior wall detergent or algae remover first if needed.
- Start at the top and work your way down, spraying evenly.
- Avoid prolonged pressure on damaged mortar or flaking paint.
Tip: Jet washing exterior walls and fencing not only enhances kerb appeal but also preps surfaces for painting or weatherproofing projects.
- Decking – Stay One Step Ahead of Slips
Timber decking is especially prone to algae and moss build-up in shaded areas, which becomes dangerously slippery in the rain. A thorough jet wash removes this build-up and protects your deck from decay.
How to Jet Wash It:
- Brush away leaves and loose debris first.
- Use a decking cleaner or a vinegar-based solution for natural wood.
- Apply low to medium pressure, moving in the direction of the wood grain to avoid splintering.
- Let the decking dry fully before applying any oils or sealants.
Decking needs a little extra care to maintain its integrity, but a clean, dry deck is far safer and longer-lasting.
Tip: Regularly jet washing decking in summer prevents algae and mildew from creating slip hazards during the wet months.
Bonus Tips: Jet Wash Smarter, Not Harder
- Always wear protective eyewear and old clothes — splash-back is real.
- Use eco-friendly detergents where possible to reduce environmental impact.
- Check your local water regulations—some areas in the UK may have guidelines on jet washing to avoid run-off into drains.
- Inspect your pressure washer’s settings and attachments before use. Too much pressure can damage surfaces.
When to Skip the DIY and Call in the Pros
If you’re dealing with years of grime, paint flakes, or particularly delicate surfaces, don’t be afraid to call in a professional. Specialist jet washing services come equipped with commercial-grade tools and the know-how to restore delicate surfaces without damage.
Some even offer antifungal or sealant treatments to prolong the cleanliness and reduce maintenance.
Final Thought: Clean Now, Thank Yourself Later!
Once the rain sets in and autumn hits full swing, it’s harder (and much less pleasant) to tackle outdoor cleaning jobs. So, while the weather’s still on your side, take a day to jet wash the things that matter. Not only will your home look fresher and feel more inviting, but you’ll also set yourself up for an easier transition into the colder months.
From patios to bins and beyond, a little pressure now saves a lot of mess later.
Want more cleaning hacks and seasonal household advice? Follow thehouseholddaily for practical tips to keep your home looking its best, whatever the weather.
