Homeowners across the UK are discovering a remarkably simple and cost-effective solution to a common garden nuisance: moss on patios and pathways. Shared by members of popular cleaning forums, the method promises to eliminate the slippery growth in just minutes using a common household product.
The Slippery Problem of Patio Moss
While some appreciate the aged charm moss can lend to garden paving, for many it is an unwelcome eyesore. More critically, it presents a significant slip hazard, especially on shaded pathways that remain damp. The issue was highlighted in the 'Mrs Hinch Cleaning Tips' Facebook group on 31st December 2025, when user Yaz Elizabeth sought advice after jet-washing failed to stop the green growth from returning.
Traditional removal often involves intensive scrubbing, hiring pressure washers, or using harsh chemicals. However, the collective wisdom of the group pointed to a gentler, more accessible alternative already found in most utility cupboards.
The Laundry Powder Solution Championed by Cleaners
The recommended hack is straightforward. Members advise sprinkling a generous amount of standard washing powder directly onto the moss. The process requires minimal effort: no scrubbing is needed. The powder is left to work its magic, ideally on dampened slabs to aid absorption, before being rinsed away by rain or a hose.
Multiple users reported outstanding success with this technique. Linda Waddington stated she used biodegradable washing powder, left it for 15 minutes, and found the moss had not returned two years later. Another member, Gill Breaks, recommended Aldi's biological powder for her shaded driveway, noting it killed the moss effectively, leaving a snowy-looking residue.
Debbie Mc provided a detailed account, explaining that after dampening the area and covering it with cheap powder, the moss turned brown within a day. "Three days later, I rinsed it off, and it came away like it was dust," she said, emphasising the minimal effort required.
Why Does This Unconventional Method Work?
The efficacy of laundry detergent isn't just anecdotal. Gardening expert Ben Hilton of The Yard and Garden confirms the science behind the hack. He explains that the detergent works by breaking down the cell walls of the moss, causing the plant to dehydrate and die. He cautions that it should be used sparingly and applied directly to the moss for the best effect.
This method, celebrated for its simplicity and low cost, offers a powerful tool for homeowners battling persistent moss. It proves that sometimes the most effective solutions are already sitting on the laundry shelf, providing a safe, long-lasting remedy for a slippery garden problem.
