Summertime, and the livin’ is easy!

As temperatures rise and outdoor activities takes center stage, it’s the perfect time to freshen up the spaces and items you’ll be using all season long. From pool accessories to patio furniture, a little cleaning now can help everything look better, last longer, and be ready for summer entertainment. Here are 7 vital summer items you should clean before you soak up some sun.

Pool Floaties & Inflatable Toys

Pool floaties often develop mildew, sunscreen buildup, and dirt while stored during the off-season. It’s always recommended to clean and sanitize them before using after prolonged storage. Splash, splash, sparkle!

How to clean them: Inflate the floaties fully to clean efficiently. Mix warm water with a few drops of dish soap. Wipe down with a soft cloth or sponge. For mildew spots, use a solution of one part white vinegar to three parts water. Rinse thoroughly and allow to air dry before use!

Patio Furniture & Cushions

Nobody wants to sit on a grimy seat. Outdoor furniture and cushions can collect pollen, bird droppings, and grime over the spring months.

How to clean them: Remove loose debris with a brush or vacuum. For furniture surfaces, wash with soapy water and use a soft-bristle brush to scrub hard or textured surfaces. Rinse thoroughly and let dry in the sun. For cushions, check care labels first. Spot-clean stains with a mild detergent or baking soda solution and water. For washable covers, machine wash on a gentle cycle. Air dry completely before placing them back outside.

Grill Grates

A clean grill cooks better and prevents bacteria and old char from transferring to food. Cook up a cleaning routine in just a few easy steps.

How to clean them: Heat the grill for about 10–15 minutes. Scrub grates with a grill brush and let the grill cool. Remove stubborn residue using a mixture of baking soda and water. Rinse and wipe clean and lightly oil the grates before cooking.

Decks & Patios

Year-round moisture combined with natural debris like leaves, pollen, and overgrown weeds can leave outdoor surfaces covered and can even penetrate wood treatments if left unchecked. Make debris walk the plank!

How to clean them: Sweep deck thoroughly. Remove weeds from cracks. Wash with a deck cleaner suited for the material or a mixture of water and mild detergent. Rinse with a garden hose or pressure washer on a low setting. Re-treat wood decks if needed!

Outdoor Umbrellas

Patio umbrellas are magnets for gunk buildup and cobwebs. Take cover, and take the gunk away too.

How to clean them: Open the umbrella fully. Brush away loose dirt and cobwebs. Wash with warm water and mild soap. Rinse thoroughly, pat dry around metal hinges to prevent rusting, and leave open until completely dry.

Coolers

Stored coolers can develop odors and hidden mold growth. Clean coolers that don’t smell? Now that’s cool!

How to clean them: Empty and rinse thoroughly. Disinfect and deodorize with a baking soda solution. Wash with dish soap and leave open to air dry completely before reusing.

Window Screens

Screen your screens! It’s time to clean those dead bugs of your window screens. Dirty screens are not only unsightly but also reduce natural sunlight.

How to clean them: Remove screens if possible. Vacuum both sides and use the crevice attachment if necessary for stuck on bugs. Wash with soapy water and a soft brush. Rinse gently and allow to dry before reinstalling.

A little seasonal cleaning goes a long way toward creating a cleaner and more enjoyable outdoor space. By tackling these often overlooked items as the summer arrives, you’ll spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying backyard barbecues, pool days, and relaxing evenings outdoors.