As you start using your outdoor area more frequently, particularly during the summer months when you entertain guests or relax outdoors, it becomes crucial to maintain it properly. We consulted experts to gather their insights on how to keep your outdoor living spaces clean and organized. Here are their recommendations:
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Maintain Landscaping Don't let excessively long grass or an abundance of weeds spoil your outdoor enjoyment. Regularly tending to your landscaping not only sets the stage for other cleaning tasks but also minimizes the chances of stepping on debris or hidden objects in the grass. Mowing the lawn is an obvious task, but don't forget about other important chores. "Establish a schedule for lawn care, pruning, and general cleaning," advises Eric Tamminga, owner of Iron Embers, an outdoor accessories manufacturer. "Regularly sweep or hose down hard surfaces, remove fallen leaves, and inspect the furniture for any necessary repairs. Consistency is key to maintaining a tidy and inviting outdoor space."
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Create Activity Zones Similar to how you designate rooms in your home for specific activities, organizing your outdoor space in the same manner prevents it from becoming chaotic. Arranging furniture and accessories in dedicated areas adds visual appeal and makes the space more appealing. "Create separate areas for dining, lounging, playing, and gardening," suggests Tamminga. "Use outdoor rugs, furniture arrangements, and planters to clearly demarcate each zone. This not only enhances the overall aesthetic but also prevents clutter from spreading across the entire space."
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Make Furniture Serve Dual Purposes Every living space requires comfortable lounging areas, but imagine if those furniture pieces also offered storage capabilities. Opt for multifunctional pieces that maximize your space and provide storage for toys or pool accessories. Ensure that the furniture you choose is weather-resistant and can withstand outdoor conditions. Encourage kids to place their outdoor toys and games in storage benches, and involve the whole family in keeping things neat. In addition to speeding up the cleanup process, involving everyone teaches good habits that extend beyond the outdoor entertaining season.
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Keep Trash Cans Visible Out of sight, out of mind. Placing easily recognizable trash bins near designated outdoor eating areas helps prevent littering and keeps your grass free of garbage. This not only maintains the cleanliness of the space but also deters unwanted littering throughout the day. Opt for stylish options such as wicker-look resin trash receptacles or colored industrial bins.
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Decorate with Flowers Strategically positioning large pots or planter boxes filled with beautiful blooms adds cheer and visual appeal to your outdoor living space. It also draws the eye, making any lingering clutter less noticeable. Choose pots in matching shapes, styles, and colors for a tidier appearance. "You can find many types of pots, from hanging baskets to large-scale containers," suggests Rhys Charles, a lawn care expert. "Fill them seasonally with blooming flowers to add aesthetic diversity when hosting friends or having kids play outdoors. Moreover, they create visual depth, breaking up open spaces like patios or decks into smaller sections, making it easier to manage and compartmentalize different activities."
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Consider Native Plants Whether you plant flowers in decorative pots or directly in the ground, opt for native plants that naturally thrive in your area. By doing so, you reduce the maintenance required for landscaping and enhance the overall appearance of your outdoor space. "Utilizing native plants in your landscape can conserve water and minimize the need for fertilizers, while also attracting beneficial insects and wildlife," explains Jack Williams, CEO and editor of Handyman Reviewed. "Incorporating hardscaping elements like mulch or gravel can further prevent weed growth and reduce the frequency of mowing or pruning. This allows you to maintain a neat outdoor area while adopting natural solutions and reducing your environmental impact.
- Add mulch to your landscaping. Whether it's wood chips or rubber pellets mulch serves multiple purposes. It not only protects your plants but also provides a softer surface for kids to play on. By adding mulch, you create a more comfortable and safer environment for outdoor activities.
By following these tips and creating a plan for how you intend to use your outdoor space, you can ensure that it remains clean, organized, and ready for entertaining whenever the mood strikes. Stay on top of necessary maintenance tasks and enjoy an outdoor area that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. If you ever want advice or contractor suggestions call a team member at The Seasons Group with Keller Williams.
The Seasons Group at Keller Williams
2419 E Commercial Blvd
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308
P-754-248-6921
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