Patio black spots are a type of lichen that can be difficult to remove, but one woman has shared a 10-minute solution that she claims is ‘like magic’ and ‘the only thing that works’
Patio black spots, those annoying types of lichen that embed themselves firmly into hard surfaces, are notoriously trickier to remove than your average patio moss and algae. These stubborn stains often laugh in the face of intensive pressure washing, leading many despairing homeowners to question if there’s a solution that can truly tackle them head-on.
Thankfully, green-fingered individuals have flocked to the Mrs Hinch Gardening Tips Facebook group to spill their tried-and-true secrets for banishing these blemishes. Top of the list is the use of sodium hypochlorite, a powerful concoction known for its lichen-slaying prowess by eliminating the organisms behind those unsightly black spots.
READ MORE: Non-toxic mice and rat repellent that ‘works after first spray’ in homes and gardens
Cassandra chimed in with her success story: “Sodium hypochlorite cleared mine. Sprayed it all over my patio, left it half an hour then just rinsed off. Leave longer if you prefer.”
Meanwhile, David Simkins offered his two cents: “Sodium hypochlorite from eBay. Just brush on and rinse off after an hour. It will kill any weeds too.”
Adding to the chorus, Charlotte Lodge shared her own positive experience: “Sodium hypochlorite worked so well for me to get the black spots off.”
For those eager to try it out, sodium hypochlorite is up for grabs at £21.50 on Amazon or available for £30 from Alliance Online, reports the Express.
Yet, amid the praise, one gardener posed a note of caution, suggesting that sodium hypochlorite doesn’t completely eliminate black spots but rather diminishes their appearance.
Shannon Booker clarified her stance: “Sodium hypochlorite is undiluted bleach which is really good at cleaning any paving.
“I have used it past and present but it doesn’t remove black spots it just fades it. It is a fungus embedded and grows I have it on Indian stone.
“This year I have used the Pro-Kleen black spot remover and the stains have all gone now.”
Other green-fingered enthusiasts have also sung praises for this product. Jess Gwyen remarked: “Pro-Kleen black spot destroyer it’s really good.
“Sprayed my slabs and within 10 minutes the black spots had gone. It really works like magic.”
Fiona Stewart commented: “The Pro-Kleen black spot remover is the only thing that works to get the black spots off. Just had mine delivered.”
The Pro-Kleen Ultimate Black Destroyer is available on Amazon for £29.95, with customers noting its “very effective” nature and how their patios “look like new” after use. However, reviews are varied regarding the effectiveness on black spots and overall value.
Households can also find the Pro-Kleen Ultimate Black Destroyer at B&Q and OnBuy for £29.95.
