In Florida, the lanai is an extension of your living space. Whether you call it a lanai, screened porch, Florida room, or patio, keeping this space clean makes it more enjoyable year-round. Here's how to keep your outdoor living area fresh.
What Builds Up on Florida Lanais
Even with screens, lanais collect plenty of debris:
Pollen & Dust
Cobwebs
Mold & Mildew
Bug Debris
Blown-In Dirt
Pet Hair
Step-by-Step Lanai Cleaning
Step 1: Remove Everything
Move all furniture, plants, and decor off the lanai. This lets you clean every surface and prevents soaking your belongings.
Step 2: Sweep and Dust
Start from the top and work down:
- • Use a long-handled broom to brush ceiling and fans
- • Dust light fixtures and any mounted items
- • Wipe down railings and vertical surfaces
- • Sweep the floor thoroughly into a pile
Step 3: Clean the Screens
Screens are the biggest dust catchers:
- • Brush screens gently with a soft brush or vacuum with brush attachment
- • Mix mild soap with water in a spray bottle
- • Spray screens and wipe with a soft cloth or sponge
- • Rinse with a hose on low pressure
- • Don't use high pressure - it can damage screens
Step 4: Wash the Floor
Most lanai floors are concrete, tile, or pavers:
- • Hose down the floor to remove loose dirt
- • For mildew stains: mix 1 part bleach to 10 parts water
- • Scrub with a stiff brush
- • Rinse thoroughly
- • Let dry completely before replacing furniture
Step 5: Clean Furniture Before Return
While the floor dries, clean your furniture:
- • Wipe down frames with all-purpose cleaner
- • Wash cushion covers if removable
- • Hose off plastic and metal furniture
- • Clean glass tabletops
Lanai Maintenance Schedule
Weekly
- • Sweep floor
- • Wipe down tables and surfaces
- • Remove cobwebs from corners
- • Shake out outdoor rugs
Monthly
- • Dust screens
- • Clean ceiling fan blades
- • Wipe light fixtures
- • Mop or hose down floor
Quarterly
- • Deep clean screens
- • Wash cushion covers
- • Scrub floor with cleaning solution
- • Clean outdoor furniture thoroughly
Annually
- • Inspect screens for holes
- • Check for mold in corners
- • Pressure wash (if appropriate)
- • Re-seal concrete if needed
Pollen Season Tips
During heavy pollen seasons (spring and fall in Florida), your lanai may need more frequent attention:
- Hose down screens 2-3 times per week during peak pollen
- Keep a small broom handy for quick daily sweeps
- Cover outdoor furniture when not in use
- Clean before entertaining - pollen shows on everything
Need Your Lanai Cleaned?
Our cleaning service includes lanai cleaning. We'll sweep, wipe, and freshen your outdoor living space as part of your regular cleaning.