IF your child’s play equipment has spent all winter in the garden shed. then chances are it needs a good wash-down.
But if you’re thinking of blasting off dirt and cobwebs using a pressure washer, then you may just want to take note.
That’s because landscaping expert Claire Baglin, from Toolstation, explains that it’s best practice to clean all outdoor play equipment before the summer season and then once each month throughout the summer months.
However, she warns that in most cases, a pressure washer is not suitable for this job.
Trampoline – NO
Have you ever been tempted to use a pressure washer to hose down a trampoline? Well, think again!
Claire warns: “Pressure washers should not be used to hose down a trampoline as the high water pressure can damage many of the materials including the soft vinyl.
Pressure washers should not be used to hose down a trampoline as the high water pressure can damage many of the materials including the soft vinyl
Claire Baglin
“Whilst they are designed to cope with rainwater, excessive water at a high force can cause small holes in the surface which can become larger over time.”
Instead, she recommends using a garden hose to douse the trampoline before giving it a scrub with a cloth dipped in warm soapy water.
“This should remove most cases of moss or algae,” she says.
Wood and metal equipment – NO
Claire explains that most metal climbing frames are made from either aluminium or steel, and so have a protective water-resistant coating.
“Pressure washing, even on a low setting, can remove this protective coating, exposing the metal to the elements which can lead to rust,” the landscaping expert warns.
“This is also the same for wooden climbing frames as pressure washing can strip off the wood’s protective coating leaving it open to the elements.”
She goes on to say that pressure washing can also damage the wooden surface causing it to splinter.
Instead, Claire advises using some warm water mixed with a mild detergent to remove any build-up dirt or grime.
“Try to avoid leaving excess water or residue on the surface to prevent any rusting or rotting,” she adds.
Plastic play equipment – YES
But there’s good news when it comes to washing down plastic play equipment.
“Plastic accessories can easily be cleaned using a pressure washer on a low setting of around 1,200 PSI,” Claire confirms.
However, she warns to be careful not to apply too much pressure as this can strip out the colour of the plastic.
“For any stubborn stains, a mild detergent can also be applied beforehand before getting rinsed off,” she adds.
How to get algae off fences
ABS Fencing shared a list of do’s and don’ts when it comes to cleaning green algae off your fence.
- Don’t use household mould or mildew remover sprays as these are generally intended for use on hard surfaces indoor.
- Don’t use bleach in the garden, it kills a lot more than the mould.
- Don’t try sanding back the top surface of the wood, as algae will just regrow back.
- Don’t bother with power hosing – that only opens up the timber grain and allows more water inside, making the problem worse down the line.
- Do use white vinegar mixed with hot water in a spray bottle and work it in with a brush, leave for 30 mins or more, then hose down.
- Do repaint when dry with good quality fence paint.