As a hardscape specialist with over a decade of experience transforming weathered patios and driveways into stunning outdoor spaces, I’ve seen firsthand how the right paver cleaner can breathe new life into even the most neglected surfaces. But with countless products on the market, what is the best paver cleaner for your project?
The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. Everything depends on your pavers’ material, the type of stains you’re battling, and your priorities around safety and sustainability. But in this article, I’ll walk you through the key factors to consider – which means sharing my top recommendations and explaining how to avoid common pitfalls that could damage your investment.
Keep reading to the end to see how our team at JS Brick can help you!
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Paver cleaners are more than just soap and water: check out the best options out there
Pavers are porous, which means dirt, oil, algae, and efflorescence (those white salt deposits) can seep deep into the surface. A high-quality cleaner doesn’t just scrub away grime; it penetrates and dissolves stubborn stains without harming the material.
For example, clay bricks require a gentler approach than concrete, while oil stains demand a more powerful degreaser, and organic growth like moss needs a biodegradable solution.
During my years of experience, I’ve tested dozens of cleaners, and here’s what matters most:
- Safety: Non-toxic formulas are essential for homes with pets or children.
- Effectiveness: Does it tackle your specific stains (e.g., oil, algae, efflorescence)?
- Ease of Use: Can you apply it with a sprayer, or does it require a pressure washer?
- Eco-Friendliness: Harsh chemicals can harm nearby plants and waterways.
These are the aspects that I’m going to take into consideration in this guide. So let’s break down the top contenders:
For Eco-Conscious Homeowners: Algon Organic Path & Patio Cleaner
If safety is your priority, Algon’s organic formula is a standout. Made with natural ingredients, it’s non-toxic and safe around pets, wildlife, and plants. I’ve used it on clients’ historic brick patios where chemical runoff was a concern.
Simply dilute it with water, apply, and let it work over 1–2 weeks. While slower than chemical options, it’s ideal for light algae or moss.
Pro Tip: Pair it with a soft-bristle brush for faster results on textured pavers.
For Heavy-Duty Stains: BrickTastic Paver Cleaner
When facing oil, grease, or decades-old grime, BrickTastic’s industrial-strength concentrate is my go-to. It’s acid-free, non-abrasive, and works on everything from concrete to natural stone.
I recently restored a 1920s brick driveway caked in tire marks and leaf tannins by diluting BrickTastic 5:1 and letting it dwell for 15 minutes before rinsing. The result? Like-new pavers without etching or discoloration.
But make sure to always test a small area first, especially on colored concrete.
For Efflorescence and Pre-Sealing Prep: Techniseal Paver Prep
Efflorescence requires a specialized cleaner, and Techniseal’s Paver Prep is the best in the market for such a task. It removes these salts and brightens pavers’ color, making it a must-use before sealing.
I recommend it for projects where clients want to enhance their pavers’ natural hues before applying a protective sealer.
For Pressure Washer Users: Simple Green Oxy Solve Total Outdoor Cleaner
If you own a pressure washer, Simple Green’s Oxy Solve maximizes efficiency. It’s EPA Safer Choice-certified, meaning it’s tough on grime but gentle on the environment. I’ve used it to clean large pool decks stained by sunscreen and algae, achieving uniform results without damaging adjacent plants.
Read more in: Can You Power Wash Pavers? Paver Cleaning Guide
Common mistakes to avoid when cleaning pavers
One of the most frequent missteps I’ve encountered in my years of hardscape restoration is overlooking the importance of dilution ratios. Many homeowners assume that using a cleaner at full strength will yield faster or better results, but this couldn’t be further from the truth.
Concentrated formulas, when applied undiluted, can strip color from clay bricks, etch concrete pavers, or degrade the polymers in joint sand. For instance, a client once used an industrial degreaser at full strength on their bluestone patio, only to find the surface riddled with chalky white spots, which is a clear sign of chemical burn.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and when in doubt, err on the side of caution. A little patience during mixing can save thousands in repairs.
Another common oversight is skipping the test patch. Even if a product is labeled “safe for all pavers,” variations in material composition, age, or previous treatments can lead to unexpected reactions. I once worked on a 100-year-old cobblestone driveway where a “universal” cleaner caused severe discoloration on stones that had been previously sealed with an oil-based product.
To avoid this, apply a small amount of cleaner to an inconspicuous area (like a corner or beneath a planter) and wait 24 hours. Check for changes in color, texture, or sheen. This step is especially critical for colored concrete or imported materials like travertine, which may have unique sensitivities.
Equally important is neglecting post-cleaning care. Many people assume that once the stains are gone, the job is done. However, cleaning doesn’t just remove grime, it also strips away the thin layer of natural protection that dirt and debris provide.
Without sealing, pavers become more vulnerable to oil penetration, UV fading, and moisture damage. I’ve seen unsealed concrete pavers in coastal areas develop efflorescence within months due to saltwater exposure.
For lasting results, apply a high-quality sealer within 48 hours of cleaning. For more information, read our guide on sealing pavers.
A lesser-known mistake is using the wrong cleaner for your climate or paver type. For example, acidic cleaners work wonders on efflorescence but can corrode natural stone like limestone or marble. Similarly, enzymatic cleaners designed for organic growth (like algae) may struggle with oil stains.
In humid regions, skipping a mold-inhibiting cleaner can lead to rapid regrowth, undoing hours of work. Always match the cleaner to both the stain and the material. If you’re unsure, resources like the EPA Safer Choice Program list eco-friendly options vetted for safety and efficacy.
Lastly, rushing the rinsing process can leave behind residue that attracts dirt or interferes with sealant adhesion. I’ve seen cases where leftover cleaner caused hazy streaks on sealed pavers, requiring a full redo.
Use a garden hose with a fan nozzle or a low-pressure washer setting to thoroughly rinse the surface, working in sections to ensure no product remains. Pay extra attention to joints, where residue often pools.
If you want more detailed guides on cleaning pavers, here are all the cleaning guides in our blog.
Let a Professional Help You Preserve Your Investment
Choosing the best paver cleaner is about balancing your needs with your pavers’ unique characteristics. Whether you’re battling efflorescence on a historic walkway or oil stains on a modern driveway, the right product makes all the difference.
And this decision is not always a straightforward one, so that’s why it is always a good idea to hire professionals to help you.
Here at JS Brick we specialize in restoring and protecting pavers all across the Sarasota County, in FL. From personalized cleaner recommendations to professional sealing services, we’re here to ensure your pavers remain a source of pride for decades.
Contact us today for a consultation, because every great outdoor space deserves to shine.
