Depending on how dirty your slabs are, one of the most effective ways to clean your patio is with the old fashion soapy water method, a mix of dish soap and warm water will help to lift stubborn mud and any build-up of debris. However, there are those that don't agree with using acid-based cleaning products on certain natural stones, limestone in particular, as this can cause damage. So when looking to use vinegar to clean your paving stones be sure it's suitable and always dilute it first and rinse off immediately after use. We always recommend performing a patch test on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure compatibility with your specific patio material. Is there anything to avoid doing when cleaning your paving slabs? This step is optional, but if your stones are expensive or particularly delicate, you should apply a patio sealer," suggests Rowan. "This will help to protect from any weather damage and can even reduce the likelihood of future stains.” When using any cleaning product, you must ensure it is thoroughly rinsed from the surface and channelled to suitable drainage points. Once this has been done, inspect the integrity of all the paving joints, and re-sand or re-point any damaged joints as necessary.

Could white vinegar be the most versatile cleaning compound out there? Quite possibly. Found in just about any supermarket, this solution is environmentally friendly, non-toxic and is not full of chemicals. You can use white vinegar instead of the washing-up liquid from the last method. The application of any treatment should be carried out on a small section of the affected area first, with manufacturer’s instructions strictly followed. Move the bristle brush to the work area before starting. Start the bristle brush at the lower speed. Whilst using chemicals, extra care has to be taken to avoid damaging or staining adjoining material.

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Try to identify the source of the staining (e.g rust from iron gutters) and repair it. This will prevent any further staining to your garden paving.Add some extra water to the surface and scrub to loosen the dirt and debris," suggests Colin Lincoln-Evans, buyer at Tile Mountain. "Use a sponge to absorb any excess water, and repeat these steps until you’re happy you’ve cleaned the surface." 6. Rinse and repeat The most important thing to consider when cleaning your paving stones is to treat them with care. As such, Rowan recommends: "researching the type of stone used to create your paving slabs, as different stones will have specific needs. For example, you should avoid using harsh chemicals on most stones, and never use power washers, wire brushes, or even metal scrapers on limestone, as these could severely damage your patio."