Moss is a common problem for many households as it’s difficult to remove and can reappear uninvited on patios.
This stubborn intruder thrives in damp environments and can quickly get out of hand if not addressed promptly. Thankfully, Aaron Christensen, the cleaning expert at Homeaglow, has offered some solutions to tackle the issue.
Ideally, he advises households regularly maintain their patios by removing unwanted debris such as stray mulch, fallen leaves, and dirt that can attract moss, reports the Express. Alternatively, when new moss growth appears, act swiftly by using a hard-bristled brush to remove them before the situation worsens.
But for those dealing with a significant amount of moss growth, one method Aaron recommends is using a mix of boiling water and a dash of dish soap as an initial response.
Steam cleaning is another chemical-free way to get rid of patio moss
(Image: Getty)
He stated: “Boiling water and dish soap is a gentle and eco-friendly combo to remove the moss.”
To effectively use this method, pour boiling water mixed with dish soap over the affected patio area and apply some elbow grease using a stiff broom.
Aaron explained: “The water-soap combo should create enough lubrication to remove any mossy layer sitting on your patio.”
Another “excellent” method he suggests is using a steam cleaner on the patio, which takes five minutes – one of his favourite solutions.
Aaron explained: “It is eco-friendly and simply uses the high steam temperatures to kill off the patio moss.”
However, he emphasised that drying off the patio after using this technique is crucial as moss thrives in damp conditions. While Aaron admitted that bleach is the “most powerful approach”, he warned it’s harmful for you, your garden, and any pets.
If all other methods fail, resorting to bleach should be a last option. The “best way” to use it is by diluting it with water at a ratio of 10 to one and spraying it on the mossy areas.
After leaving it for 15 minutes, scrub with a stiff-bristled brush and rinse off the residue with clean water.