How to Clean Your Screened in Porch in Less Time Than You Think!

Let’s learn how to quickly clean your enclosed porch and get it ready for summer!

DIY Porch Cleaning vs. Hiring a Pro

You have the option to either tackle your porch cleaning duties as a DIY project or enlist the services of a professional. Opting for the DIY approach can be cost-effective and provide a sense of satisfaction as you personally care for your outdoor space. It allows you to set your own schedule and choose the cleaning products you prefer. 

However, DIY porch cleaning can be a major investment of time and effort. You might also need to purchase cleaning supplies and equipment. If you’d rather spend money than time, hiring a professional can save you time and potentially even get the job done more thoroughly. Professionals come equipped with specialized tools and cleaning solutions, ensuring a thorough and speedy job. 

If you’d like to clean your porch yourself but you want it to look like it was cleaned by a pro, follow these 8 porch cleaning steps: 

8 Steps for How to Clean a Screened In Porch 

Step #1: Make a plan 

Before you start cleaning, take a few minutes to make a cleaning plan. Consider factors like the weather (choose a clear, dry day if possible), the order in which you'll tackle tasks, and what the necessary cleaning supplies and equipment will be. Having a clear plan in place will make the cleaning process more organized and efficient, ensuring that no step is overlooked and that you have everything you need at your fingertips.

Step #2: Clear the area 

Start by removing all furniture, potted plants, and decorative items from your porch. This step is essential for two reasons: it ensures that you have unobstructed access to all areas, and it prevents these items from getting in the way or getting dirty during the cleaning process. 

Step #3: Dust surfaces

When cleaning an entire room, it's often best to start with the dusting. That way, if some of the dust falls to the floor, you can vacuum it up later. Vacuuming first might force you to repeat a step. Using a microfiber cloth, dust all surfaces, including window frames, sills, and even the walls if necessary.

Step #4: Sweep or vacuum

Once dusting is complete, it’s time to tidy up the floor. Sweep the porch floor thoroughly or use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove loose dirt, dust, leaves, and other debris. Pay special attention to corners and crevices where dirt tends to accumulate. If necessary, finish the job with a damp paper towel to spot clean any residue that the broom or vacuum weren’t able to capture. 

Step #5: Wash the floor

With the sweeping or vacuuming complete, it’s time to wash the floor. You will either mop or hand scrub the floor, depending on your porch's flooring material (e.g., wood, tile, concrete). Select an appropriate cleaner and follow the manufacturer's instructions to ensure you don’t damage the flooring.

Step #6: Wash screens

To wash your screens, start by mixing a solution of warm water and mild dish soap in a bucket. Then, use a soft sponge or a cloth to gently scrub the screens, removing any dirt or grime. Rinse with clean water and allow them to air dry. And the best part is you generally don’t need to remove screens from your screened-in porch to wash them!

Step #7: Clean windows

Spray glass cleaner on the windows and window frames, then wipe them clean using a lint-free cloth or paper towels. Especially dirty windows may need to be sprayed and wiped down a few times before they look fully clean. Ensure there are no streaks left behind for a crystal-clear view of the outdoors.

Step #8: Sweep and reassemble 

Yep, you get to sweep again! After everything is cleaned and completely dry, give the porch floor one final sweep or vacuum to ensure no dust or dirt remains. Once your porch is spotless, reassemble the furniture, plants, and decor to their original positions—or try rearranging things to keep your porch’s style fresh! 

Tips for Cleaning a Screened In Porch

Now that you have a step by step guide for how to clean your screened in porch, here are a few tips that will make the process even smoother. 

Tip #1: Invest in better cleaning supplies

The right cleaning supplies can make your job easier and faster. Microfiber cloths are great for dusting, because they pick up dust instead of just moving it around. Retractable cleaning tools help you clean hard-to-reach areas. If you're having trouble removing grime from the coffee table or cleaning a stain off the wall, stop scrubbing and search for products designed to help you remove dirt and gunk. 

Tip #2: Inspect and repair

Cleaning your screen porch is a good opportunity to take a closer look at the screens, window frames, and the overall structure of the porch. Look for any signs of damage, wear, or deterioration, such as holes or tears in the screens, loose or damaged window frames, or any structural issues. 

Tip #3: Cover stains with a stylish rug

Sometimes you can't get a stain out no matter how hard you try. Rather than spending hours scrubbing at that one stubborn spot on the floor, find a stylish rug that will cover the stain and enhance the overall look of your porch.