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How Should I Clean My Indian Sandstone Patio?
A complete guide to keeping your natural stone looking its best all year round.
Indian sandstone is one of the UK’s most popular paving choices, thanks to its natural beauty, durability, and timeless appeal. Whether you’ve chosen Raj Green, Rippon Buff, Kandla Grey, Mint Fossil, or another stunning variety, regular maintenance will keep your patio looking fresh for years to come.
The good news? Cleaning Indian sandstone is simple when you use the right methods.
Why Does Indian Sandstone Get Dirty?
As a natural stone, Indian sandstone is exposed to the elements every day. Over time, you may notice:
- Green algae
- Moss
- Lichen
- Dirt and mud
- Fallen leaves
- Bird droppings
- Food and drink stains
This is completely normal and doesn’t mean there’s anything wrong with your paving.
Step 1: Sweep the Patio Regularly
The easiest way to maintain your sandstone is by giving it a regular sweep.
Removing leaves, soil and debris prevents moisture from becoming trapped on the surface, reducing the chance of moss and algae developing.
A quick sweep once a week can make a huge difference.
Step 2: Wash with Warm Water
For general cleaning, warm water is often all you need.
Use:
- A bucket of warm water
- A stiff outdoor brush (not a wire brush)
- Plenty of elbow grease
Scrub the surface before rinsing thoroughly with clean water.
This removes everyday dirt without damaging the natural stone.
Step 3: Use a pH-Neutral Stone Cleaner
If your patio needs a deeper clean, choose a pH-neutral cleaner specifically designed for natural stone.
These cleaners effectively remove dirt without harming the sandstone or affecting its natural colour.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and test the product on a small, inconspicuous area first.
Step 4: Can I Pressure Wash Indian Sandstone?
Yes—but with care.
Pressure washers can quickly remove dirt and algae, but using too much pressure may damage the stone or wash out the jointing.
For best results:
- Use a fan spray rather than a concentrated jet.
- Keep the nozzle at least 30 cm (12 inches) from the surface.
- Work evenly across the patio.
- Avoid directing the jet into the joints.
- Use a moderate pressure setting rather than maximum power.
Used correctly, a pressure washer can refresh your patio without causing damage.
What Should You Avoid?
To protect your sandstone, avoid:
❌ Bleach (unless it’s specifically recommended for natural stone)
❌ Acidic cleaners such as brick acid or patio acid
❌ Wire brushes
❌ High-pressure washing directly into the joints
❌ Harsh chemicals that can strip away the stone’s natural appearance
Natural stone is incredibly durable, but it’s always worth treating it with care.
How Do I Remove Green Algae?
Green algae is one of the most common issues on patios, particularly in shaded or damp gardens.
The best solution is to:
- Sweep away loose debris.
- Apply a natural stone cleaner or algae remover suitable for sandstone.
- Leave it to work as instructed.
- Scrub with a stiff brush.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
Keeping nearby plants trimmed back and allowing more sunlight onto the patio can also help prevent algae from returning.
What About Oil or Grease Stains?
For barbecue or cooking spills:
- Blot the stain as soon as possible.
- Wash with warm water and a stone-safe cleaner.
- Avoid rubbing fresh oil deeper into the stone.
The quicker you tackle a stain, the easier it is to remove.
Should I Seal My Indian Sandstone?
Sealing isn’t essential, but it’s highly recommended.
A quality sandstone sealer can help:
- Repel water
- Reduce staining
- Slow algae and moss growth
- Make future cleaning much easier
- Enhance the natural colours (if using an enhancing sealer)
Most patios only need resealing every 3–5 years, depending on foot traffic and weather exposure.
How Often Should I Clean My Patio?
For the best results:
- Weekly: Sweep away leaves and dirt.
- Every few months: Wash with warm water or a pH-neutral cleaner.
- Once a year: Give the patio a deep clean and inspect the joints.
- Every 3–5 years: Reapply sealer if required.
A little maintenance throughout the year is much easier than tackling years of built-up dirt.
Common Questions
Will Indian sandstone lose its colour?
No. One of the biggest advantages of natural sandstone is that its colour runs throughout the stone, so it won’t peel or flake like some manufactured products. Over time, it develops a natural patina that many homeowners find adds even more character.
Is Indian sandstone high maintenance?
Not at all. With regular sweeping, occasional washing and the option of sealing, Indian sandstone is easy to care for and can look beautiful for decades.
Can I use washing-up liquid?
A small amount for light cleaning is unlikely to cause problems, but it’s better to use a cleaner designed specifically for natural stone to avoid leaving residues or affecting the stone over time.
Keep Your Sandstone Looking Beautiful
Indian sandstone is designed to stand the test of time. With a little routine maintenance, you’ll enjoy a patio that continues to enhance your garden year after year.
At Cowley Stone, we supply premium Indian sandstone, limestone, porcelain, cobbles, walling stone, and accessories to help you create an outdoor space you’ll love. If you have questions about caring for your paving or choosing the right products, our team is always happy to help.
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