A DIY expert has revealed the "simplest" and most "efficient" methods to using just "household basics". Sam Williams, a DIY specialist at SGS Engineering, said: "You don't need any fancy products to clean a patio and one of the most effective cleaning hacks is just using washing up liquid and warm water.

"All you have to do is drop a tablespoon of washing up liquid in a bucket of warm water to make a soapy solution, pour it over the patio and then scrub away with a hard brush." Sam suggested scrubbing in a diagonal pattern as this is less likely to inflict any damage to the stone.

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For any stubborn stains or black spots on your patio or driveway, white vinegar is an excellent choice, reports . While it should be avoided on certain types of paving slabs, such as limestone, its acidic content is superb at eliminating stains.

Sam elaborated: "Combine the water and white vinegar in a bucket in a 1:1 ratio and pour the solution over your patio and leave it to work for 30 minutes to an hour.

"Rinse away with your hosepipe. Alternatively, baking soda is another great option if you don't have any vinegar to hand. This technique works particularly well on patios with barbecue fat stains. However, it will only have limited effectiveness against algae and mould."

If you own a pressure washer, this can expedite the process, although caution is advised when setting the device's pressure. The expert warns that powerful water jets can cause harm if not used with caution, hence it's advisable to explore other cleaning methods first.

If you're still keen on using a pressure washer, the expert suggests clearing any furniture before commencing from the top corner of the patio. Maintain a 30-degree angle with the device and spray diagonally across the patio, keeping a safe distance to prevent damage to the slabs.

Sam added: "One advantage of opting for a patio over decking is that it typically requires cleaning just once a year. However, with a bit of regular upkeep, you can ensure it looks pristine throughout the year.

"One handy tip is to make a habit of sweeping your patio, particularly during the autumn months." This should stop crushed leaves from accumulating and leading to stubborn discolouration stains by springtime.

"You might also want to think about applying a patio sealant. This aids in preventing weathering and is also effective at preserving the colour of patio slabs.

"A sound choice if you've recently installed dark patio slabs or given them a thorough clean and wish to maintain their fresh appearance."