The Ultimate Guide to Cleaning Decorative Gravel for a Fresh Look All Summer Long

Welcome to the Loadsofstone.com blog! Today, we are going to share a comprehensive guide on how to clean your decorative gravel, specifically white chippings and black ice decorative chippings. Keeping your gravel looking pristine can be a challenge, but with the right techniques and home remedies, it can be done. We'll also discuss the best time of year to clean your gravel so it looks great all summer long.

If you are using any light coloured chippings that are starting to discolour or go slightly green then this guide is for you!

Step 1: Gather the Necessary Supplies

To get started, you'll need a few essential tools and materials:

• A rake or broom
• A garden hose with adjustable spray nozzle
• A bucket or wheelbarrow
• A large sieve or colander
• A stiff-bristle brush
• Protective gloves
• White vinegar (for homemade cleaning solution)
• Mild detergent or specialised stone cleaner (optional)
• Bleach (optional)

Step 2: Choose the Right Time of Year

The ideal time to clean decorative gravel is in the late spring or early summer, just before the warm weather sets in. This ensures that your gravel will look fresh and clean throughout the entire summer season. Make sure to choose a dry day with low humidity to facilitate the drying process.

Step 3: Remove Debris

Start by removing any larger debris from your gravel, such as leaves, twigs, or trash. Use a rake or broom to gently gather debris in one area, making sure not to disrupt the gravel too much. Once collected, dispose of the debris properly.

Step 4: Rinse the Gravel

Next, use a garden hose with an adjustable spray nozzle to rinse the gravel. Start at one end of the area and work your way across, using a gentle spray to avoid displacing the gravel. This will help remove any loose dirt or dust.

Step 5: Prepare a Cleaning Solution

For a simple, eco-friendly homemade cleaning solution, mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a bucket. You can also add a few drops of mild detergent for extra cleaning power. Alternatively, you can use a specialised stone cleaner or a mild bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) if you prefer.

Step 6: Clean the Gravel (Two Options)

Option 1 - Scrub the Gravel: Put on your protective gloves and use a stiff-bristle brush to scrub the gravel with the cleaning solution. Be sure to reach all areas and scrub vigorously to remove any stubborn dirt or stains. If your gravel is particularly dirty, you may need to repeat this process a few times.

Option 2 - Spray and Soak: Alternatively, you can spray the cleaning solution evenly over the gravel and let it soak overnight. This method is ideal for those who prefer a less labor-intensive approach. The following day, use a pressure washer to rinse away the loosened dirt and cleaning solution. Make sure to use a low-pressure setting to avoid displacing the gravel while pressure washing.

Note: We advise to try option 2 first, and if the gravel is too dirty try option 1.

Step 7: Rinse Again

Once you have finished scrubbing, use the garden hose to thoroughly rinse the gravel again. This will help wash away any remaining dirt and cleaning solution.

Step 8: Drain and Dry

If you have a large sieve or colander, place it in a wheelbarrow or bucket and scoop up a small section of the wet gravel. Gently shake the sieve to remove excess water and then spread the gravel out in a thin layer to dry. Repeat this process until all the gravel has been drained and spread out to dry.

Step 9: Allow the Gravel to Dry Completely

It's essential to let your gravel dry completely before walking on it or placing any furniture or decorations back in place. Depending on the weather conditions, this may take anywhere from a few hours to a full day. Be patient and allow the gravel to dry to ensure it looks its best.

Step 10: Replace Furniture and Decorations

Once the gravel is completely dry, carefully return any furniture or decorations to their original positions. Be gentle when moving items back onto the gravel to avoid displacing or damaging the clean surface.

Conclusion:

Maintaining the pristine appearance of your decorative gravel might initially appear challenging, but with the appropriate tools, techniques, and some patience, it's entirely achievable. By following this step-by-step guide, you can ensure that your white chippings/gravel remain clean and fresh throughout the summer season. Not only will this enhance the overall aesthetic of your outdoor space, but it will also contribute to the longevity of your gravel investment. So, grab your supplies, choose the perfect sunny day, and get ready to rejuvenate your decorative gravel with confidence!