How To Clean River Rock Landscaping

River rock landscaping is a popular addition to many outdoor spaces, and a great way to add texture, beauty, and natural elements to your property. However, river rocks can quickly become dirty and discolored if not regularly cleaned and maintained. Here, we will outline the process of how to clean river rock landscaping, so you can keep your outdoor area looking its best.

Preparing for Cleaning

Before you start cleaning your river rocks, it is important to make sure that the rocks are suitable for cleaning. River rocks are often sealed with a protective coating, and if so, the rocks should not be cleaned with any type of detergents or soaps. Additionally, some river rocks are naturally porous and can easily absorb cleaners, so it is important to check the label and investigate the porosity of your particular type of rocks.

Manual Cleaning

Manual cleaning is often the best method for cleaning river rocks. For smaller areas, you can use a brush or a broom to scrub the stones and then rinse with a hose. For larger areas, you may want to use a pressure washer to help improve the effectiveness of the cleaning. Remember to use a low-pressure setting when using a pressure washer on river rocks, as high-pressure settings can be damaging.

Removing Stains

If there are stubborn stains on your river rocks, you may need to use a specialized stain remover. Different types of staining may require different types of stain removers, so it is important to identify the stain first before selecting a product. Before using a stain remover, make sure to read the label and follow the manufacturer instructions carefully.

Chemical Cleaning

If manual cleaning methods are not effective, you may need to use a chemical cleaner to remove dirt and stains from the river rocks. Again, it is important to read the label and use the product according to the manufacturer's recommendations. You may also want to consider using a pH-balanced cleaner so that the river rocks are not damaged by the chemicals.

Maintenance

To keep your river rocks looking their best, it is important to regularly maintain the area. Remove leaves and debris on a regular basis, and periodically use a mild soap and water solution to clean any dirt or grime that has built up over time. Additionally, you may want to consider adding a sealant to the rocks to provide extra protection from dirt and staining.

Brief Recap

River rocks can quickly become dirty and discolored if not regularly cleaned and maintained. Maintenance is key when it comes to keeping river rocks looking their best. Manual cleaning with a brush or a broom, or with a pressure washer set to a low-power setting, is often the best method of cleaning. For stubborn stains, you may need to use a specialized stain remover, or a chemical cleaner. Additionally, you can use a mild soap and water solution to keep the river rocks in good condition, and consider sealing the rocks for extra protection.