What detergent is best for cleaning pavers?

Author: Dr. Gene Herman  |  Last update: Monday, August 11, 2025

If you do not have a mild detergent or specialized paver cleaner, dish soap and degreaser will work just as well. Avoid acidic solutions that may damage your concrete.

Can you use Dawn dish soap to clean pavers?

A dish soap, like Dawn, is a safe place to start. The surfactants in dish soaps are designed to remove oil and grease, they're gentle enough to be used without issue on your pavers. In a bowl or bucket, mix the soap with water and pour it onto the stain and agitate. Rinse and repeat if needed.

What is the best way to clean my pavers?

Effective Cleaning Methods

Dish Soap: A great way to clean patio pavers without removing any sand or decorative texture is by simply cleaning with a gentle soap or degreaser like Dawn. Add the dish soap to a container of water, then start lightly scrubbing the dirty spots with a rag, sponge or a stiff-bristled brush.

What is the best product to clean concrete pavers?

My recommendation would be hot water with some dishwashing detergent mixed into it. Apply it to the area and use a stiff bristle brush to scrub down the pavers. You could try 30 Seconds 2L Outdoor Cleaner With Rapid Hose End Technology if you see no effect.

What is the best detergent to clean block paving?

If you want a powerful block paving cleaner, DriveClean Xtreme works quickly and effectively. The driveway cleaner for block paving will remove stubborn black spot that can be hard to shift.

Paver Cleaning - Quick and Easy | DIY Outdoor Bleach on Patio | Remove Mold, Mildew and Algae |

What is the best detergent for pavers?

You can use dish soap, laundry detergent, or any type of general-purpose cleaner. Never use bleach on your pavers, as it can damage the surface.

What kind of soap do you use to clean pavers?

A gentle dish soap like Dawn is best for cleaning stone patios, walkways and driveways. If you're in doubt, test a small, inconspicuous area with the cleaning solution before you apply it to the entire paver area. Replenish the polymeric sand between your pavers annually as needed.

Does white vinegar clean pavers?

Mix equal parts vinegar and water into a bottle and apply a generous spray on the pavers. Don't wash it off immediately. Instead, let it sit for a few minutes before using a mop or sponge to clean the bricks. Cleaning pavers with baking soda is also another brilliant natural solution.

Should you pressure wash pavers?

Pressure washing is one of the most effective ways to clean your pavers. However, if not done properly it cause permanent damage and deterioration to the surface. Excessive water pressure may remove dirt and grime build-up but it can also eat away at the material.

What is the best chemical to clean brick pavers?

White vinegar and water, another common household cleaner, can also be used on mildew. For brick pavers that get a greenish or blackish hue from moss and lichen, damp shady environments, or water run-off, the BIA recommends bleach and water (mixed with a one-to-one ratio) or commercially available biocide treatments.

Can you use OxiClean on pavers?

If your deck is made from concrete, pavers travertine, brick, stamped concrete or composite decking, you can clean and refresh it for summer using OxiClean™ Versatile Stain Remover.

Is baking soda good for cleaning pavers?

Can You Clean Pavers Without Chemicals? If you prefer to use eco-friendly products, vinegar, and baking soda are viable alternatives. When they are mixed with water, they can be a powerful cleaning agent. Also, they're both safe for your pets and plants!

What is the best cleaner for algae on pavers?

There are a few ways you can remove algae from your green pavers, walls and fencing, some more effective than others. The simplest and most effective way is with HG algae and mould remover. This product can be used on walls, fencing, doors and more.

What kind of soap do you use to clean paving?

Once you've swept the driveway or pathway, it's time to clean it. Mix a solution of water and a mild dishwashing soap, like Sunlight Dishwashing Liquid. Use the same hard-bristled brush to scrub the detergent into the paving making sure you get in between all the cracks and grooves.

How do you gently clean pavers?

How to Clean Concrete Pavers
  1. Clear the space. Remove any furniture, potted plants, or other objects sitting on top of the pavers.
  2. Tidy any vegetation. Pull up any weeds from between the paver joints. ...
  3. Get the pavers wet. ...
  4. Prepare a mild, non-acidic cleaning solution. ...
  5. Gently scrub the pavers. ...
  6. Rinse the pavers.

Can you use laundry detergent to clean patio?

Cleaning Patio Slabs with Laundry Detergent

First, dampen your patio slabs with warm water. Then sprinkle the detergent over all the dirty stone surfaces. Now grab a brush and scrub away all particles and deposits. Finally, rinse the clean stones with clear water.

Is simple green safe for pavers?

You can use Simple Green Oxy Solve Concrete and Driveway Cleaner to clean brick walls, pavers, patios and more with or without a pressure washer. It removes oil, grease, grime and most stains and discolorations. Its biodegradable formula is safer for lawns and pets.

What to put on pavers before pressure washing?

I'd recommend diluting some liquid pool acid, apply it sparingly to the stubborn areas, let it stand for a few minutes, then rinse it with a fine spray from your hose until you feel that's all flushed away. Going over it again with the pressure cleaner should have it looking a treat.

How often should you clean pavers?

However, it is important to clean and seal your pavers once a year in order to keep them looking brand-new. Cleaning your pavers will clear off any weeds, dirt, and grime that has built up since it has been installed.

What is the best soap to clean pavers with?

Dish soaps are ideal for this job. While they feature surfactants that are able to remove tough grime like oil and grease, they are also safe enough to use on paving stones without compromising their integrity or appearance.

What is the best natural cleaner for pavers?

Make sure you choose white vinegar for household cleaning, as other types of vinegar can stain. Baking soda and water. This is another natural cleaning method that's gentle and effective. Baking soda is a mild abrasive that can help to break down dirt, grime, and stains and leave your pavers looking shiny and new.

Can I use hydrogen peroxide to clean pavers?

Break into the first aid kit and grab the hydrogen peroxide. Spray it full strength onto the soiled areas and let the classic cleaner work its magic. Scrub at the foaming area with a deck brush to remove more stains.

What to run through soap dispenser on pressure washer pavers?

So, rather than use regular cleaning solutions, it's best to invest in a pressure washer-specific soap or detergent. These products go well with high-pressure water, giving you a smooth cleaning experience.

Can I use CLR on my pavers?

Can CLR be used on paver stones? Yes, it can but must be non-colored or stamped concrete versus color paver.

What is the best degreaser for pavers?

Liquid dish soap or laundry detergent will remove most oil stains on pavers. Directly apply the soap to the stain and allow to sit for 20-30 minutes. Then scrub with a nylon bristle brush and rinse with hot water.

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