Patio black spots disappear in 15-minutes with expert’s cheap household method (2024)

This Morning: David Domoney gives advice on cleaning your patio

Patios fall victim to many stains like oil spills, moss and regular dirt - but they are relatively easy to remove.

When it comes to black spots on patios, this is where it can get a little tricky. Removing black marks from your patio can be quite difficult and time-consuming if you don’t reach for the right black spot remover.

Black spot is lichen whichthrives on stone surfaces in the damp and shady conditionsthat are so common in the UK.

The characteristics of the lichen are that as it matures, it gets into the pores of the stone seeking nutrients from the minerals in the stone and gradually spreads through the surface of the patio.

With that in mind, Tom Allen, owner ofTGA Concrete Pumping, hasexplained how to remove black spots from your patio with citric acid, “a fairly common household item that is cheap to buy”.

READ MORE: Monty Don’s clever tip to remove lawn moss so grass grows thicker than ever

Black spots on patios are typically caused by algae, moss or mould (Image: Getty)

He said: “Black spots, typically caused by algae, moss, or mould, can make patios appear dirty and neglected, and while solutions like baking soda and vinegar are often recommended for cleaning, citric acid is another household item readily available in supermarkets that can effectively tackle these stubborn stains.”

Before cleaning the patio, start by gathering the supplies. You will need citric acid powder, a large bucket, warm water, a scrubbing brush or broom with stiff bristles, and a watering can or spray bottle.

Next up, it’s time to prepare the patio cleaning solution. In the large bucket, mix approximately one cup of citric acid powder with one gallon of warm water.

Stir the mixture until the citric acid has completely dissolved and adjust the quantities as needed depending on the size of the affected area.

Don't miss...
Best time to prune hydrangeas for fabulous big blooms - avoids small flowers [INSIGHT]
Alan Titchmarsh shares genius answer to stop slugs and snails destroying plants [EXPERT]
Replace white vinegar with 13p item that's the best method for kettle limescale [TIPS]

A pressure washer isn’t essential to remove black spots from patio (Image: Getty)

Using a watering can or spray bottle, evenly apply the citric acid solution to the areas of your patio affected by black spots. Be generous with the solution, ensuring that it thoroughly saturates the surface.

Allow the citric acid solution to sit on the affected areas for about 15 to 20 minutes. This time gives the citric acid a chance to “break down and loosen the black spots”, making them easier to remove.

After, use a scrub brush or broom with stiff bristles to scrub the patio surface vigorously. Focus on the areas where the black spots are most concentrated, applying extra pressure as needed to lift stubborn stains.

Once you've scrubbed the entire patio surface, thoroughly rinse away the citric acid solution using a garden hose. Ensure that all traces of the solution are completely removed.

Citric acid, commonly used as a food additive and found in many fruits such as lemons and oranges, “possesses powerful cleaning properties that make it an excellent choice for removing black spots from patios”, according to Tom.

Unlike harsh chemical cleaners, citric acid is natural, making it safe for both the environment and the user.

A 250g box of citric acid can be picked up from B and Q for just £2.25 or can be bought in bulk from Amazon for £10.90.

For those who find that citric acid is not working to remove the black spots from their patios, households can buy patio cleaner from Wickes for £14.

• Gravel weeds die fast and stay away with godsend method - not vinegar or salt
• Ditch bleach for cleaner’s ‘magic’ item that works much better on sealant mould
• Remove ivy for good with gardening expert’s ‘best solution’ - and it’s natural
• Monty Don shares essential vegetable that needs planting before the end of March
• TV licence warning to anyone using Amazon Firestick to watch shows