Entertaining Outdoors? Don’t Forget to Clean These Overlooked Places

This is an obvious one, but people often forget what cleaning outdoor furniture actually requires. Having sat in a garage or shed for the better part of six months, your chairs are probably now home to a number of creepy crawlies. On that note, be sure to give them a deep clean, top to bottom. See here for creative decor ideas for indoor and outdoor styling.

Corners are always stubborn spots, both indoors and out. Make sure to rid cobwebs and other undesirables, and check to see if any new nests have formed. Although you want to dispose of nests carefully and ethically, it’s important to check these spaces to avoid a potential nasty encounter for your guests.

If you have paved walkways or patios, take the time to hose them down and scrub with a wire broom. The winter often creates a buildup of moss or lichens that can discolour these areas. I find that cleaning paved spaces freshens up a backyard and makes it ready for the summer months. Looking for patio inspiration? Here are 15 outdoor living rooms you’ll never want to leave.

The buildup of dead leaves and plants over the winter months can make your outdoor space look tired and neglected. Removing these is a tiresome job, but it will give your outdoor living space the facelift it deserves. Try to save the dead leaves and plants to create mulch for your gardens by adding them to your compost bin. For more yard ideas, check out the most popular flowers for Canadian gardens.

After months of being battered by our harsh Canadian winter, windows and screens need a thorough clean to remove any unwanted debris. Windows are such an important part of the home, both practically and aesthetically. Keeping them clean and functional is a small task that can make a big difference.

Having reliable (and stylish) outdoor lighting is ideal for parties that extend into the evenings – so make sure they’re clean and work properly. If you have a lampshade or light cover, take it off and give it a proper clean by soaking it in water or wiping it down with a damp cloth. This probably only needs to be done once or twice come summer, but it will ensure your exterior sparkles all season long.

However good our intentions, we often neglect the cleanliness of our barbecues. Ours is used so often, and Bryan is pretty good at keeping it grease-free, but I always give it an initial deep clean so it’s ready for the season. Then all you need to do is give it a wipe down after each use, and it will be good for the entire summer. This way you’ll ensure your barbecue lasts as long as possible.

If you have children, or are inviting kids to your party, outdoor toys can be a great idea. However, after being cooped up in a shed or garage all winter, give them a good scrub. The same goes for pool equipment!

Again, your coolers and outdoor fridge probably haven’t been used for months, so now is the time to give them a thorough clean to ensure you’ve rid any unwanted bacteria. Then you can happily fill them with beverages and food for guests. Happy outdoor entertaining!