Adding outdoor cleaning to your list of spring chores can make a big difference in the appearance of your property. It can also save money by preventing damage and potential lawsuits caused by tripping hazards.

Begin with a thorough sweep of the entire area. This will get rid of all that accumulated debris and dirt that’s lingering from winter.

Decks and Patios

Decks and patios are great spots for summer barbeques and parties, but they're also exposed to the elements all year round. They must deal with snow, rain, sleet and the sun's rays, which damage the wood. Even with regular cleaning, wooden decks can warp or rot. They can also attract termites and other pests.

Keep a broom handy and sweep regularly. Clean up food stains, bird droppings and other debris as soon as you see them.

Scrub stains with a brush and soapy water, or use a pressure washer for tougher stains like mildew. If you do use a pressure washer, cover any nearby shrubbery with a plastic sheet to protect it from the chemicals in the cleaner. If you decide to make your own deck cleaner or patio wash, be sure it's safe for outdoor cleaning use by following the manufacturer's instructions. This solution should be used in a well-ventilated area and out of the reach of children.

Pathways and Driveways

Many of the same green cleaning methods used to clean household items are also effective in outdoor settings. These non-toxic cleaners can be made from ingredients that are commonly found in your pantry and likely already on hand.

Using a non-toxic detergent is a great way to remove dirt, mold and mildew from both concrete and asphalt driveways. Liquid dish soap is a superstar at removing plant-based driveway stains, while powdered laundry detergent works well for oil and grease stains.

Cleaning latex-based paint splatters from concrete or asphalt is easy by wetting the stain, sprinkling on household scouring powder and scrubbing with a stiff-bristled nylon brush. Once the stain is removed, rinse thoroughly with a garden hose.

Be sure to check walkways and driveways for cracks, which should be filled as soon as they are visible. This will help prevent weeds from growing in the cracks and save you money on costly repairs in the future.

Planters and Flowerpots

Whether it’s a small indoor planter or a massive Outdoor Cleaning Services one, these containers need to be cleaned regularly. As soil and fertilizer leach out, the container can become a breeding ground for bacteria, pests and diseases that could harm future plants in it, according to TheGardeningTalk.

Keeping your flower pots and planters clean is especially important when you want to re-use them. Bacteria, viruses and fungi can linger in old soil that has been left behind in the container, and these organisms can harm or even kill a new occupant, according to Iowa State University Extension.

To get your pots ready for the next planting season, wipe down all surfaces with a sponge dipped in cleaning solution or a mixture of water and disinfecting bleach. Rinse well and allow the pot to dry completely. This will help the pot retain its shape and prevent any cracking or fading of the surface materials. You can purchase commercial flower pot and planter cleaners or mixes for diluting with water in specialized gardening stores.

Light Fixtures and Fans

Light fixtures can add a lot to the feel of a space. However, dust can cloud their bulbs, covers and fixtures, dimming their brightness and impacting indoor air quality. Cleaning them can help maintain that bright and clean feel.

Most light fixtures need a deep clean between one and two times a year, depending on your household’s needs and how quickly the dust accumulates. As with other electrical cleaning tasks, it is important to first make sure that the fixture is turned off and, if applicable, unplugged.

Then, use a soft cloth (preferably a microfiber towel that won’t scratch) and warm water to wipe surfaces and bulbs. For ceiling-mounted light fixtures, you may need to remove the cover and soak it in soapy water before wiping and rinsing. If the fixtures have a metal finish, they should be cleaned with care to avoid tarnish. Metal and brass fixtures also benefit from a polish with lemon oil once they’re clean and dry.