Cleaning a plastic garden shed is a straightforward process that helps maintain its appearance and longevity.
Keeping your plastic garden shed clean prevents dirt and grime buildup, which can otherwise make it look unsightly and potentially harbor mildew or mold over time. Regular cleaning ensures your shed remains a functional and attractive part of your garden.
Steps for Cleaning Your Plastic Shed
The method you choose can depend on the size of your shed and the level of dirt. Here are the common approaches:
Method 1: Using a Hose and Brush
This is a common and effective method, especially for larger sheds.
- Step 1: Prepare the area. Remove any items stored directly outside the shed that might get wet or dirty.
- Step 2: Wet the exterior. If your shed is rather large, opt for a garden hose for convenience and spray water onto its outer walls. Start from the top and work your way down to loosen surface dirt.
- Step 3: Scrub stubborn areas. Prepare a plastic bristle brush scrubber just in case you have to scrub away the stuck grime. A mild soap or detergent solution can be used with the brush for tougher spots.
- Step 4: Rinse thoroughly. Use the garden hose to rinse off all soap residue and loosened dirt, again working from top to bottom.
Method 2: Using a Power Washer
For faster cleaning, a power washer can be a useful tool.
- Step 1: Set up the power washer. Ensure you use a low-pressure setting suitable for plastic surfaces to avoid damage. A fan tip nozzle is usually best.
- Step 2: Spray the shed. Alternatively, use a power washer, if you have one, to speed up the cleaning process. Hold the wand at an appropriate distance (usually at least 1-2 feet) and use even strokes to clean sections of the shed.
- Step 3: Rinse. Power washers typically rinse as they clean, but a final pass with clear water can ensure all dirt is removed.
General Tips for Cleaning
- Consider using a mild all-purpose cleaner or a solution of water and dish soap for extra cleaning power, especially if you have mildew or algae growth. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that could damage the plastic.
- Clean on a cloudy day or during cooler parts of the day to prevent soap from drying on the surface before you can rinse it, which can leave streaks.
- Don't forget to clean the windows and the door.
By following these steps, utilizing tools like a garden hose, plastic bristle brush, or power washer as mentioned in the reference, you can effectively clean your plastic garden shed.
