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A £1 item found in most bathrooms can be used to clear green algae from garden decking in minutes, according to experts. The unusual cleaning trick has already been shared widely online, with people saying it works faster and costs far less than specialist patio cleaners.

The method involves using basic white shaving foam to lift away the slippery green layer that can form on wooden decking and steps. It's being praised as quick, effective, and safe to use without expensive tools or harsh chemicals. Users say the foam clings to the surface, softening the algae so it can be scrubbed away with little effort.

To try it, the foam is sprayed over the affected area, left to sit for up to 15 minutes, then brushed and rinsed away.

Outdoor specialists at Decking Superstore say the technique works because the foam stays in place long enough to break down the slime.

A spokesperson said: "It sounds bizarre, but shaving foam is surprisingly effective at cleaning algae off decking.

"The consistency means it sticks to the wood and breaks down the slime. It rinses away easily and doesn't harm the surface."

Sophie Willoughby, a gardening volunteer with the Royal Horticultural Society, decided to try it after nearly slipping on her garden steps.

"I thought it was one of those silly hacks that wouldn't actually work," she said. "But I was shocked.

"I left it for about ten minutes, gave it a light scrub, and the algae just lifted off. I've used an expensive deck cleaner before and this worked better, plus it smelled nicer."

She now keeps a spare can in her shed for quick clean-ups.

The foam's thickness is thought to make it more effective than liquids, which can run off before the algae softens.

It is also gentle enough to use around pets and children. Sophie concluded: "It's quick, cheap, and it works. I'll definitely be using it again."