What Is The Best Thing To Clean A Balcony With?
Your balcony is additional living space where one can sit and enjoy the outdoors while catching some sun. Due to its constant exposure, it can amass dirt, stains, and grime. The primary reason for regular cleaning is not just about the appearance of your balcony but also to extend the life of the floor and surfaces. A clean balcony will invite relaxation and company.
Preparing the Balcony to be Cleaned
Before scrubbing, take the time to prepare the space. Take everything off the balcony—furniture, plants, and all decorative items—inside. Then thoroughly sweep the entire floor with a stiff broom. It will get rid of the loose dirt and other materials that are on the balcony. On wood or composite flooring, whisk away fine particles with the soft-bristle brush vacuum attachment. Weed the tiles or floorboards if some have sprouted there. First, check with your building management to see if they have any restrictions on washing your balcony since some may charge for it or prohibit it. If the washing is not allowed, plan to use a mop instead of dumping water.
The Best Cleaners for Your Balcony
The ideal cleaning solution will depend on your kind of balcony flooring. On wood, use a mild soap, such as Dr. Bronner's Pure Castile Soap, mixed with water, or some other wood cleaner. On tile or concrete, the solution of water and vinegar will work quite well, and it won't be too hard on the surface. Rust stains can be attacked by applying laundry detergent directly to the stain, letting it sit, and then rinsing with warm water. For the case of leaf stains, mix 1⁄2 cup liquid dish soap per 3 gallons of water. In the case of oil and grease, you can use either a commercial degreaser or a paste made from TSP and calcium carbonate. Apply bleach—first testing on inconspicuous areas for discoloration—to carefully kill off mold and mildew. Always test any cleaner on a small area, inconspicuous, before its wide application. Also, wear gloves and safety glasses when working with strong substances like bleach.
Scrubbing, Rinsing, and Cleaning Railings & Windows
With your chosen cleaning solution at the ready, it's time to get scrubbing. Use a soft-bristle brush or mop to scrub the floor well, being sure to hit stained or high-traffic areas hard. A toothbrush is good for getting into tile grout lines. Allow cleaner to sit on tough stains for a little, then scrub. If you have a hose, the best thing to do is going to be rinsing the balcony—just take your neighbors downstairs into consideration. If not, fill a bucket with clean water and use a mop or sponge to rinse. You could also use a wet/dry vacuum if available. Now, let it dry completely before putting back the furniture and decorations.
Railings and windows accumulate dust, dirt, and grime. First, sweep off the loose dirt by using a dry brush. Then, clean the railings with a soft, slightly damp cloth, adding your cleaner of choice. Use gentle scrubbing action with a soft-bristle brush to remove any stubborn stains. Cleanse the railings once more with clean water, then dry with a cloth. For a thorough and professional touch, consider the services offered by Deep Cleaning Seattle. Clean windows using a sponge or squeegee and a solution of vinegar and water on the panes, and a slightly damp microfiber cloth to clean the frames. Avoid any circular motions that tend to leave streaks.
Keeping Your Balcony Clean and Inviting
Only a few acts of preventive maintenance will keep your newly-cleaned balcony at its best:
Regular balcony cleaning prevents accumulation of dirt and other debris
Stains: always treat quickly, be it from coffee, food, or droppings from birds
Outdoor rugs protect the floor and enhance appearance
Sealant on concrete repels oil and leaf stains
Outdoor furniture cover and cushion covers require cleaning and periodic replacement
Check and adjust your cleaning schedule for different seasons and weather.
Consider hiring a professional cleaning service for periodic deep cleans
Enjoy Your Refreshed Outdoor Oasis!
Bring on the right equipment, products, and a bit of elbow grease, and you'll have that balcony sparkling clean and ready for yet another seasonal cycle of alfresco living. Pull up your favorite lounge chair, add a little lush greenery, and invite a friend over to enjoy relaxing in your polished al fresco space. Your outdoor oasis awaits with consistent upkeep for a pristine balcony year-round.
