Some time back, I had an awning installed for the patio. Not very long after it rained heavily and dirty water from the roof collected in the awning because it was raised a bit to allow for a better view out. Basically because of the way it was raised, the water couldn’t run off freely, so it just collected and stayed there. I didn’t realise this was the case until a few days later.

When the patio awning was adjusted so that the water was allowed to run off, there remained sludge on it, and it looked quite awful. Of course, I was determined to clean it. I couldn’t have such an ugly sight staying there for anyone to see. So I tried taking down the awning so I could get it washed. However, it proved too difficult a task to get it down.

Fortunately, I have a knack for finding solutions to problems. So I came up with a plan of action to clean the unseemly sight. I decided I would need a course broom, a bucket with soap and water, and a chair or stool to stand on.  I stood on the chair, infront of the awning, dipped the course broom into the soapy water, and applied it to the dirty parts of the awning, giving it a good scrubbing. It worked like a charm. The dirt came right out.

I should probably mention that I thought of using a toothbrush to do the cleaning. I did try it, but it seemed like a daunting task to clean the whole awning with it. I also didn’t know how I would reach the upper parts with the toothbrush.  Anyway, the broom took care of this, as the long handle gave a better reach. 

What I did learn from using the toothbrush though, was that the soapy solution I made was sufficient to clean the patio awning. For when I applied it to the frills, the dirt came out nicely. So if you want to check if the cleaning agent will be effective, you can try applying some to a toothbrush and then brush the dirty part of the awning.  In case you’re wondering, I used some bleach and water.

I should probably mention that this method of cleaning with the broom was quite tiring and tedious. But it beats the toothbrush idea hands down!

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