Moss is not inherently harmful but can cause pathways to look untidy and – crucially – become slippery hazards.
This makes its removal advisable, especially in winter when it might freeze. Thankfully, reports the Mirror, online community boards may have the answer.
Green-fingered Manda Jayne reached out for help on the Garden Cleaning Tips Facebook group, writing: “Any advice would be greatly received”.
She sought tips for removing green moss and grime from her garden paving, but followed her request with: “Please bear in mind that we do have a small dog who likes to explore, so no harsh chemicals. Also, we don’t own a pressure washer or know anyone with one. Thank you.”.
Her query was met with a wave of recommendations for white vinegar, which can be picked up for as little as 35p from retailers like Tesco.
Facebook user Sue Wilding suggested: “Dilute white vinegar with water, about one part vinegar and 10 parts water. Let it sit on the patio for a while, and it should come away easily with a brush, no scrubbing needed, it’s incredible.”
Follow group member Pat Baker confirmed that the budget-friendly condiment “kills moss instantly” on hard surfaces, but added a cautionary note to avoid plants as vinegar’s acetic acid could harm them.
The substance must be diluted before use, given that its strong acidic profile can harm patios and other surfaces if not handled properly. The online community has been vocal, giving additional advice such as employing hot water while ensuring animals are kept out of harm’s way.
Mandi Marsh contributed her method, stating: “Boiling water and a sweeping brush to gently push the moss away.”
In agreement, Talia Louise commented: “This is what I do, it’s great because I have a dog and need to be careful to keep chemicals away from him.”
Although bleach was mentioned by a few, there were concerns raised about the possibility of staining the patio with such a harsh chemical.