Keeping pea gravel clean helps maintain its aesthetic appeal and prevents weed growth. While regular raking and blowing address loose debris, stubborn stains require a more targeted approach.
To clean pea gravel, especially when dealing with stubborn dirt or organic stains, you should use a mild detergent mixed with water.
Here’s a breakdown of the process for tackling tougher spots:
Addressing Stubborn Stains
Sometimes basic methods aren't enough for spills, mildew, or embedded organic matter. This is where the reference specifically guides the cleaning process.
- Prepare the Cleaning Solution: Mix a mild detergent with water. Use a ratio that creates soapy water, but isn't overly concentrated.
- Apply to Affected Areas: Carefully apply the solution directly to the spots or areas of the pea gravel that have stubborn dirt or organic stains.
- Gentle Scrubbing: Gently scrub with a small brush. A stiff-bristled brush designed for outdoor cleaning or even a smaller utility brush can work. The key is to focus on the stain without being too rough.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Once the stain is lifted or significantly reduced, rinse the area with clean water to remove all soap residue. This prevents the detergent from potentially attracting more dirt over time.
- Caution on Pressure: Be cautious not to use too much pressure while scrubbing. Excessive force can easily disturb the placement of the pea gravel, creating uneven areas or displacing the stones.
General Pea Gravel Maintenance Tips
- Regular Raking: Periodically rake the pea gravel to remove leaves, twigs, and other loose debris. This prevents organic matter from breaking down and staining the gravel.
- Blowing: Use a leaf blower to clear light debris quickly.
- Weed Control: Address weeds promptly by hand-pulling or using a gravel-specific weed killer to prevent them from taking root and requiring disruptive cleaning.
- Edge Maintenance: Keep edges defined to prevent soil and grass from encroaching on the gravel area.
By following these steps, particularly using the mild detergent and gentle scrubbing method for stubborn stains, you can keep your pea gravel looking fresh and tidy.
