Get Your Deck or Patio Organized for Spring

If the upcoming spring season has you stressing about your disorganized deck or patio, don't despair. It can actually be quite simple to get your outdoor spaces into great shape. Spring is the perfect time to start fresh and get organized. Here are a few organizational tips you can use to get your deck or patio ready for the spring and summer outdoor season.

Clear the Clutter

Over the winter, it is likely that your patio accumulated a lot of dirt, grime, leaves and other forms of outdoor clutter. Before you can get ready for spring, you'll have to clear all these items and get things cleaned up. If you put your patio furniture into storage for the winter, you'll be able to more easily clean the deck surface. However, if your furniture pieces are still in place, you'll probably want to temporarily move them to a different location if possible. If you have planters or other forms of decorations on your deck, these should be moved as well. Once everything has been removed, start by sweeping the floor surface and removing any large debris such as branches. You can then wash the deck surface, using whatever method is most appropriate for your decking material. While the deck surface is drying, you can start getting things organized and ready to put back in place.

Cleaning the Patio Furniture

If you washed your patio furniture before putting it away for the winter, then you might just need to give it a quick dusting. However, if you were in a rush and put your furniture away dirty, you should clean it now before you start using it for the season. A garden hose with a power spray nozzle can be a great way to clean patio furniture. You might also need to do a bit of scrubbing with a brush or a sponge. Depending on the materials your furniture items are made from, you might also need a special cleaner. Always follow the cleaning recommendations provided by the manufacturer when cleaning patio furniture. If you have teak patio furniture, now might be a good time to clean it and apply a fresh coating of teak oil.

Putting Everything in Place

Once the patio or deck surface is clean and your furniture pieces have been washed, you're ready to get things organized for springtime enjoyment. After everything has dried, start by putting your furniture pieces back in place. You should also give some thought as to features you could add that would make your patio more enjoyable and easier to care for. For example, if you entertain outdoors frequently, you might want to add a decorative waterproof storage bench. Not only will the bench provide additional seating, but you'll also be able to store items you frequently use on the patio, such as a few beach towels or a stack of plates or cups. If your child plays on the patio, you might also want to add a waterproof storage box for their outside toys. Once you're finished, your patio will be clean and neatly organized, just in time to enjoy the warmer and sunnier weather.