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As temperatures begin to rise, many households across the UK start turning their attention outdoors, spending time on patios and decking areas. But after months of wet weather, fallen leaves, and general neglect, these spaces often need a thorough refresh.

Google searches for "how to clean a patio" have increased by 90% in the last two weeks, whilst searches for "how to clean patio slabs" have increased by 60% in the last two weeks. Whether you're preparing for garden gatherings or simply want a cleaner, more inviting outdoor space, Yell has put together a list of patio cleaning hacks that every household should know this spring.

For most households, a deep clean of a garden patio twice a year is sufficient - ideally once in early spring and again in the autumn. However, experts at Yell recommend light maintenance cleaning every few weeks during spring and summer to help prevent dirt, algae, and stains from building up.

If your patio is in a shaded area or surrounded by trees, it is more prone to moss and algae build-up more regularly. A simple homemade concoction of vinegar and water being scrubbed with a stiff brush every few weeks will keep the moss and algae at bay throughout the season.

Spring is widely considered the best time to give your patio a thorough clean. After winter, outdoor surfaces often accumulate grime, moss, and weather stains, making this the ideal moment to restore them before regular use resumes. Choose a dry, mild day for the job. Cleaning in direct intense sunlight can cause cleaning solutions to dry too quickly and leave streaks, while rainy conditions can wash away products before they've had time to work effectively.

Clean once more in the autumn to avoid any moisture build-up that leads to slippery surfaces and can cause damage during winter freeze-thaw cycles.

With over 17.7K videos under the TikTok hashtag #patiocleaning, many Brits across social media are finding quick and easy ways to clean their patios without breaking the bank. Successful hacks that have gone viral under these hashtags include:

* The Washing Powder Method: pour laundry powder over patio stones to kill moss and weeds, then let the rain rinse it away (or wash off after) for a clean finish

* Vinegar and Baking Soda: combine 1:1 white vinegar and water or a mix of baking soda and water to remove stubborn grime; allow it to soak for 15-20 minutes before scrubbing

* Bathroom Sink Hose Hack: for flat dwellers, hook up a portable hose adapter to a bathroom sink tap to clean the balcony patio area without an external tap.

* Fairy Liquid & Scrub: use warm water mixed with liquid soap, in particular Fairy Liquid, combined with a stiff scrubbing brush to clean, followed by a hose rinse.

Decking however requires slightly more care than stone patios, particularly if it's made from natural wood. As the good weather hit the UK this month, search demand for "how to clean decking" spiked by nearly 50%.

With this in mind, the experts at Yell recommend sweeping away debris, then cleaning using a dedicated decking cleaner or simple, soapy water. Scrub only along the grain of the wood to avoid damage. Once clean and fully dry, consider adding a decking oil, stain or sealant to protect the wood from any moisture and the spring and summer UV rays.

Regular maintenance of your wood decking not only improves the appearance of the decking but also extends its lifespan and reduces the risk of cracks, warping, and rot.

Once your patio is clean, a few simple habits can help maintain it throughout the season:

* Sweep regularly: removing dirt and debris prevents any staining and stops moss from taking hold.

* Tackle spills quickly: food, drink and grease can stain quickly if left untreated, so it's best to clean up spills as soon as possible.

* Use outdoor rugs or mats: placing mats in high-traffic areas or under garden furniture can reduce wear and help keep surfaces cleaner.