As summer arrives, it’s time to bid farewell to indoor cleaning routines and shift our focus to the great outdoors. June presents the perfect opportunity to tackle outdoor cleaning tasks and give your home’s exterior a fresh and inviting look.. From patios to gutters and everything in between, get ready to transform your home’s exterior this June.
Assess Your Outdoor Cleaning Needs
Walk around your property and take note of any dirt, grime, or clutter that requires attention. A detailed assessment will help you prioritize your tasks and plan accordingly.
Pressure Wash for a Clean Slate
A pressure washer can be your best friend when it comes to outdoor cleaning. Explore the various surfaces you can clean with a pressure washer, including driveways, decks, siding and fences. Plus, power washers will not remove mold or mildew so no extra effort is required. However, it’s important to learn the correct techniques to ensure effective cleaning without causing damage. Better Homes & Gardens has a great guide.
Let the Sunshine in with Clean Windows
Clean windows enhance the overall appearance of any home and let in more natural light. Just remember to clean outside the glass too. Rust often develops on window screens leaving them looking lackluster. To remove, gently scrub with a mixture of vinegar and baking soda using a soft brush, then rinse it thoroughly with water and allow it to dry. For stubborn rust stains, sand lightly with fine-grit sandpaper before following the cleaning process or head to your local hardware store for a commercial cleaning solution.
Master the Art of a Driveway Detox
Grease stains on driveways can damage the surface layer and mar your home’s esthetic. To remove grease stains from a driveway, begin by covering the stain with an absorbent material like cat litter, sawdust or baking soda. Let it sit for a few hours or overnight to absorb the grease. Then, sweep or vacuum up the absorbent material. Now, sprinkle powdered dishwasher detergent over the stain and pour boiling water over it. Use a stiff nylon brush to clean up the stain, then rinse. Repeat if necessary.
Brightening Up Outdoor Lighting
Outdoor lighting adds ambiance and safety to your home. Take advantage of June’s longer days to clean and maintain your outdoor light fixtures. Create a welcoming glow in your outdoor spaces. Add a front porch light, hang some whimsical string lights or strategically-place solar lights throughout your garden, to brighten up the exterior.
Enhancing Curb Appeal with Landscaping
Don’t forget to address your landscaping needs for a complete outdoor transformation. Sometimes it’s as simple as keeping up with weeding, trimming and adding some mulch, to enhance your home’s curb appeal. Clean and maintain your outdoor equipment, such as shovels, pruning shears and pots to keep them working well and ensure a long life.
