Patio Cleaning and Outdoor Décor Ideas

Doing an annual deep-clean to get your patio ready for summer doesn’t have to be difficult. With a few brushes, some basic cleaning supplies and a little work, your outdoor space will be ready to enjoy all summer long.

First, do a little prep work. Most likely, your patio and furniture are both dirty from the winter weather, but it’s still a good idea to check thoroughly for any damage or wear. If you have a wood deck, look for any loose boards, exposed nails or splintered wood. If you have a stone or brick patio, make sure there’s nothing that’s wobbling or crumbling. A little bit of sanding or patching will bring your space up to snuff in no time.

Next, it’s time to clean. Pull any weeds and sweep away any dust and dirt that isn’t stuck on. If you have a power washer, pick the right setting for your patio material and zap that grime away. If you don’t, it’s time to apply a little elbow grease. A stiff brush and some deck cleaner will do the trick, or you can make cleaner yourself by using dishwasher detergent, water and oxygen bleach. A garden hose sprayer can also make it easier to get the suds on and the winter gunk off.

Patio furniture should get the clean treatment too. Remove cushions and detachable fabric elements, then give a wash with outdoor furniture cleaner or soapy water and a gentle scrub brush. Check for rust or damage on the furniture and tighten any loose screws. Cleaning your outdoor cushions could involve giving them a thorough dusting, but they may be machine- or hand-washable – check tags for the best way to get them clean too.

With so many days ahead for grilling and chilling, why not refresh your patio’s setup to make the ultimate outdoor oasis? You can go all-out or just make a few little adjustments – either way, you’ll wind up with a space that’s even more perfect for enjoying.

Start by taking a look at your patio furniture and asking what you use your space for the most. Maybe it’s sitting and relaxing with a drink in the evening, or maybe you prefer to entertain. The perfect patio furniture set for your space will be based on the way you intend to use it most:

• Entertaining: High-top patio tables are great for drinks and conversations with a few friends, and may be a good choice if you’re splitting your attention between the grill and the conversation.
• Lounging: If laid-back relaxing is more your speed, ask whether your current setup is comfy enough. Adding a couch, love seat or patio lounger can take your summer comfort to a whole new height.
• Family Dining: Consider getting a patio table that seats four, six or expands for even more guests. Conventional-height tables make it easier to pull up high chairs and add booster seats, too.

A few additional items can help spruce up your space even further. End tables can be handy for holding drinks and snacks, and umbrellas can help keep the sun off you and your guests. Potted plants can help green up your space – just be sure to select varieties that love the light. String lights are a popular option for after-dark illumination that work well in any weather, and a few outdoor candles or citronella candles can help provide mood lighting and keep biting bugs away.

When it comes to outdoor dinnerware, seasonal serveware can help bring your entire outdoor ensemble together. And for the grillmasters, it may be time to get a new set of tongs, a fresh grill brush or even a new instant-read thermometer.

If you’re looking for an upgrade to your summer serveware, you can shop outdoor utensils and more.

Your space is set, your new serveware is ready to go…now you just need a few recipe ideas to serve up this year. We’ve got you covered with all kinds of ideas, like the sweet and savory flavors of a Summer Nectarine Turkey Snack Board. You can serve it up charcuterie tray-style on a seasonal platter or create a little snack bar for guests to nosh on.

Or, fire up the grill and enjoy Grilled Seafood Skewers with Spicy Smoked Remoulade or delicious Creamy Parmesan Lime Grilled Corn. If you’re using wooden grill skewers, soak them in water for 10-30 minutes before assembling your kebabs. Or if you’re looking for an upgrade, stainless steel skewers might be a little easier to use (and reuse) all summer long. And when it comes to corn, corn holders are a cute and handy addition to your table that makes it easier for little fingers to enjoy corn on the cob.

If you’re looking for a summer cocktail, why not try our recipe for Watermelon Margaritas? They’re fruity, fun and full of flavor that will help you savor every sun-soaked moment of your summer. Try serving them up in a cocktail dispenser that makes mixing and cleanup extra-easy. You’ll get a lot of mileage out of one during summer entertaining.

For more summertime inspiration, visit our summer shop.