After a harsh winter, your wooden terrace likely appears dull and aged. Dirt accumulates, the weather takes its toll, and you’re left with an outdoor space that has lost its original charm.

Should you resort to using a pressure washer? Absolutely not! Today, you will learn how to restore the beauty of your wooden terrace using a gentle and natural method.

Why Abandon The Pressure Washer For Wood?

You may be tempted by the quick solution of a pressure washer. After all, it seems practical and effective, right?

Think again: using a device like a pressure washer can, in fact, damage your terrace. The powerful water jet will lift the wood fibers, causing splinters and weakening the material. Even worse, the aggressive stream accelerates the wear of your terrace and reduces its lifespan.

So, how can you clean effectively without risking damage to the wood? Follow the guide.

Use Black Soap For A Flawless Terrace

Here’s the undeniable star of eco-friendly cleaning: black soap. Naturally gentle and nourishing for wood, it provides deep cleaning without harming your planks.

Here Is How To Use It:

  • Mix 10 tablespoons of liquid black soap with 10 liters of hot water in a bucket.
  • Dip your broom-brush into the mixture and clean by always following the direction of the wood grain.
  • Rinse</strong thoroughly with clear water afterwards.
  • Let it dry naturally, choosing a nice sunny day.

This tip is simple as can be, and you will love the results.

How To Remove Persistent Stains With Baking Soda?

Some stains may persist despite the initial cleaning with black soap? No worries, baking soda will quickly tackle tougher stains thanks to its gentle abrasive action.

  • Sparingly sprinkle baking soda on the stained areas.
  • Gently scrub with a damp brush.
  • Rinse immediately after to avoid white marks.

Tip to remember: this method is perfect for both natural stone terraces and wood.

Avoid Calcareous Deposits With White Vinegar

Noticed some whitish streaks on your terrace? It’s likely limescale! A simple mix of white vinegar and warm water will easily eliminate these deposits.

Proceed as follows:

  • Mix white vinegar and warm water in equal parts.
  • Apply the solution with a soft sponge or cloth.
  • Let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly.

Just be cautious: avoid using white vinegar on materials sensitive to acidity, such as marble or certain natural stones.

Very Dirty Terrace? Try Percarbonate Of Soda!

Terraces that are particularly dirty or blackened require intensive cleaning. In this case, percarbonate of soda is a true lifesaver: it works deeply while being environmentally friendly.

Here’s how to do it:

  • Dissolve one cup of percarbonate of soda in 10 liters of hot water.
  • Spread the solution over your terrace with a broom-brush.
  • Let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes, then scrub again to dislodge all the dirt.
  • Finish with a thorough rinse with clear water and let it dry.

Guaranteed results: your terrace will regain its original appearance in no time.

Properly Maintain Your Wooden Terrace: Some Practical Tips

Did you know that preventing dirt buildup will save you time during major seasonal cleanings? Here are some good habits to adopt to simplify your terrace maintenance:

  • Regularly sweep to remove dead leaves and dust.
  • Perform a complete cleaning twice a year, ideally in spring and fall.
  • Protect the wood by applying a saturator after each major cleaning. This nourishes the material, revives its colors, and protects it from UV rays and moisture.

By adopting these simple and effective gestures, you’ll keep your terrace beautiful and durable year after year.


Have you tried these natural methods to clean your wooden terrace? Which one works best for you? Share your experiences in the comments below! We’re interested in your opinion.