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6. Outdoor Oasis: Soap and Salt for Garden and Patio Care
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The adaptability of soap and salt transcends the inside of your house. From patios to gardens, this dynamic team can be quite helpful for keeping your outdoor areas looking great.
To make a paste for cleaning outdoor furniture, toss equal parts salt and liquid dish soap. On plastic or resin furniture that has darkened or stained from environmental contact, this mix is especially successful. Apply the paste; let it stay for a few minutes; then, before rinsing completely, gently brush. While the soap pulls away oils and other residue, the salt's mild abrasiveness helps to eliminate dirt and grime.
For some plants in the garden, a diluted solution of soap and salt can be a good, environmentally friendly insecticide. In a gallon of water, mix a tablespoon each of liquid soap and salt; then, mist afflicted plants to discourage soft-bodied insects such as aphids and mealybugs. Though some plants may be sensitive to salt, it's advisable to apply this solution sparingly and start with a small area first.
A combination of coarse salt and liquid soap might aid to eliminate tough stains and algae growth for cleaning concrete drivesways or stone patios. Apply the paste to the impacted areas; let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes; then, before rinsing completely, scrub with a hard brush. Eliminating moss and other organic growth from outside surfaces is very easy using this approach.
