6 Things People with Clean Driveways Always Do

Ever wonder how some people manage to keep their driveways looking spotless year-round? It’s not magic – it’s about consistent driveway maintenance and a few smart habits. People with immaculately clean driveways aren’t afraid to roll up their sleeves (or use a few handy tools) to keep that pavement pristine. The good news is you can do it too! Here are six habits of homeowners who always have clean driveways, especially in spring, and how you can adopt them. Each habit comes with best practices, common pitfalls to avoid, and a recommended product to make the job easier. Let’s get your driveway looking fresh, clean, and ready for the warmer months!

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1. They Regularly Clear Leaves and Debris

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One thing tidy-driveway folks do consistently is clear off leaves, dirt, and debris on a regular basis. Twigs, dead leaves, gravel from winter road sand, and other debris not only make a driveway look messy, but they can also lead to stains or encourage weed and moss growth. By sweeping or blowing away debris before it accumulates, you’ll prevent grimy buildup and make all your other cleaning tasks much easier. Plus, a debris-free driveway has instant curb appeal.

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How to do it: Make a habit of quickly sweeping the driveway or using a blower at least once a week, and especially after storms or snowmelt. In spring, there’s often leftover grit from winter road salt and sand – be sure to clear that out as soon as possible. A sturdy push broom will do the job, but many homeowners with spotless driveways opt for a faster method: a leaf blower. Leaf blowers aren’t just for fall leaves; they’re great for blasting away dust, small sticks, and even light snow. For best results, start at one end and work everything toward one side so you don’t just scatter the mess around. If you have flower beds or a lawn adjacent, try to blow debris into a pile you can bag, rather than into your garden (or your neighbor’s yard!).

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Common mistakes to avoid: Don’t wait until debris piles up inches thick – by then it may have already left stains or become a wet, slimy mess. Also, be considerate: avoid simply blowing all your debris into the street or down the storm drain (this can clog drains and is often against local rules). Instead, collect and dispose of it properly. Another mistake is using a leaf blower on full blast in a gravel driveway – you might send gravel flying. Turn down the power or use a broom in that case.

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Recommended Tool: Make clearing debris a breeze with a quality leaf blower. For example, the Greenworks 40V Cordless Leaf Blower (with battery included) is a handy option that lets you swiftly blow off leaves and dust without wrestling a cord. It’s lightweight, cordless, and powerful enough to keep your driveway spotless. You can find the Greenworks 40V Cordless Leaf Blower on Amazon.ca – a worthy investment if you’re serious about easy outdoor cleaning.

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2. They Clean Up Spills and Stains Right Away

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If you peek at the driveways that always look clean, one thing you won’t see are old oil spots or mystery stains. That’s because diligent homeowners tackle stains immediately rather than letting them set. Whether it’s an oil drip from your car, a splash of grease from a BBQ, or rust from lawn furniture, the key to stain removal is speed. Fresh spills are much easier to clean than old, set-in stains. By attacking spills when they happen (or as soon as you notice them), you can keep your driveway looking like new and avoid ugly splotches on the concrete or asphalt.

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How to do it: For oil stain removal, time is of the essence. As soon as you notice oil or automotive fluids on the driveway, soak it up. You can sprinkle cat litter, sawdust, or baking soda on fresh oil puddles to absorb as much as possible – let it sit for a few hours, then sweep it up. Next, use a dedicated driveway cleaner or degreaser to scrub away the residue. Apply the cleaner, let it penetrate per the instructions, then scrub with a brush and rinse. For example, a product like Simple Green Oxy Solve Concrete and Driveway Cleaner is designed to break down oil, grease, and grime on driveways. It’s safe for concrete and works wonders on stubborn stains. You would dilute it, pour or spray it on the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub and rinse thoroughly. (Pro tip: warm water can help loosen oily grime when rinsing.)

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Not all stains are oil-based – you might encounter rust stains (from metal items or fertilizer granules) or salt stains (white crusty residue from winter road salt). Rust can often be removed with a mild acid cleaner (like a concrete rust remover or even vinegar for lighter stains), and salt residue should be washed away in spring because it can slowly eat at concrete. The general rule: identify the stain type and use the appropriate cleaner sooner rather than later. Mildew or algae causing dark stains? A mix of household bleach and water (or a specialized mildew cleaner) can kill it – just be careful of runoff onto plants.

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Best practices: Keep some basic cleaning supplies on hand so you’re ready for any spill. A bag of absorbent kitty litter and a concrete cleaning solution are great to stash in the garage. When using chemical cleaners, follow the label directions – some need to be diluted, and most work best if you don’t let them dry out on the surface while working. Always rinse the area well with water after cleaning so residue doesn’t attract more dirt. If a stain is particularly tough, you may need to repeat the process or try a second product. Patience and prompt action pay off here.

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Common mistakes to avoid: The biggest mistake is ignoring a spill, thinking “I’ll get to it later.” If you leave it, an easy-to-remove fresh spill can become a permanent mark. Another mistake is using the wrong cleaner or tool – for example, scrubbing a grease stain with just water and a bare brush likely won’t do much, and using something like muriatic acid on concrete will remove the stain but might etch (damage) the concrete if you’re not extremely careful. Also, avoid using wire brushes or scouring pads on asphalt driveways – they can scratch and damage the asphalt surface. And if you use a strong chemical, don’t forget to rinse; leaving chemicals on the driveway can actually cause new stains or discoloration.

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Recommended Cleaner: For most driveway spills and spots, a specialized cleaner makes the job easier. We recommend keeping a bottle of Simple Green Oxy Solve Concrete and Driveway Cleaner on hand. It’s formulated to remove oil, grease, mold, and mildew from driveways without harsh solvents. Simply apply, scrub, and rinse. Check out the Simple Green Concrete and Driveway Cleaner on Amazon.ca – it’s a spring cleaning lifesaver for concrete driveways, and it works with pressure washers or by manual scrubbing.

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3. They Power Wash Away Winter Grime

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Come springtime, people with the cleanest driveways have a secret weapon for a deep clean: power washing. After months of snow, rain, and mud, even a well-swept driveway can benefit from a good pressure washing to blast away all the embedded dirt and winter grime. Power washing (using a pressure washer) not only removes dirt and stains that a normal hose can’t, but it also washes away corrosive salt residue from winter road treatments. This prevents concrete from pitting and keeps asphalt from deteriorating. The result? A brighter, like-new driveway that really makes your home shine.

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How to do it: Choose a day in spring when the weather is dry and above freezing. First, give the driveway a basic sweep to remove loose debris (you don’t want to fire pebbles around with the pressure washer!). Then set up your pressure washer. If you don’t own one, you can rent one for the day, but many homeowners invest in a decent unit for regular outdoor cleaning tasks. For concrete driveways, a machine around 2000–3000 PSI works well; for asphalt, you might use a bit lower pressure to avoid damage. Use a fan tip (25° or 40° nozzle) or a rotating surface cleaner attachment rather than a pinpoint jet, which is too harsh. Keep the wand moving in sweeping motions, about a foot or so from the surface. You’ll see all the dirt and algae wash off almost magically. Work in sections, and if needed, pre-treat any tough stains with the cleaner from the previous step before blasting them. Power washing will also clean out the pores of the concrete and any crevices where grime lurks.

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To remove salt stains and residue, make sure to thoroughly rinse those areas – you might even go over the driveway with a soapy cleaner (some pressure washers have a detergent injector) and then rinse clean. By removing salt, you’re protecting your concrete from long-term damage. Don’t forget to wash down the edges where lawn meets driveway, as salt and dirt accumulate there too.

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Best practices: Wear eye protection and shoes that you don’t mind getting muddy, because pressure washing can splash back muck. Start with lower pressure and increase if needed – test a small corner to ensure you’re not etching the surface. If your washer has adjustable spray tips, begin with a wider spray. Keep the nozzle at a consistent distance to avoid striping. Overlap each pass slightly for even cleaning. For concrete cleaning large areas, a surface cleaner attachment (a round brush that spins under a hood) can make the job faster and avoid streaks. If your driveway is on a slope, start at the top and work downward so dirty water doesn’t run over your freshly cleaned sections. Take your time and admire the difference as you go – it’s actually a satisfying chore once you see that deep gray concrete turn back to light clean gray!

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Common mistakes to avoid: Do not hold the nozzle too close to the driveway. Many people think closer = more power, but that’s how you carve lines into concrete or strip off the top layer of asphalt. Keep a safe distance (usually 12 inches or more). Avoid using a zero-degree (point) nozzle on the flat driveway surface; those are meant for very targeted cleaning (like removing paint from a tiny area) and can damage the concrete or asphalt. Also, be careful around edges and expansion joints – too much pressure could chip the edges of concrete slabs. Another mistake is neglecting to rinse away dirty water. If you blast a section and leave the dirty water sitting, it can resettle in low spots – so try to push the excess water toward a drain or off the sides as you work. Lastly, don’t use a pressure washer on a cracked driveway without checking the cracks first – high pressure can worsen cracks if you aim directly into them (you’ll want to repair those cracks, which we’ll cover in a moment).

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Recommended Equipment: A reliable pressure washer is a game-changer for driveway maintenance. One popular choice is the Sun Joe SPX3000 Electric Pressure Washer, which offers 2030 PSI – powerful enough to lift stubborn grime and even help with stain removal, but still homeowner-friendly and easy to use. It comes with multiple spray tips and dual detergent tanks for tackling different cleaning tasks. If you’re looking to invest in a quality power washer, check out the Sun Joe SPX3000 Pressure Washer on Amazon.ca. With a tool like this in your arsenal, your driveway will get a thorough spring clean that neighbours will notice (and maybe envy!).

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4. They Scrub Away Moss and Mildew

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Those perpetually clean driveways have another enemy to contend with: green and black stuff. Moss, algae, and mildew love to grow on damp, shaded parts of driveways, especially after a wet winter or early spring. If you’ve ever seen a driveway with green patches or dark, slippery film, that’s what we’re talking about. People who keep their driveways pristine make a point to remove moss and mildew as soon as it appears – and they often do a preventative scrubbing each spring. Not only does this make the driveway look clean, but it also prevents slippery conditions and stops these growths from breaking down the driveway surface over time.

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Why it’s important: Moss and algae might start as small spots, but they can spread quickly and even widen cracks or gaps by rooting into them. Moss also holds moisture against the surface, which can lead to more staining and damage. Plus, let’s be honest, a mossy driveway just looks uncared for. Getting rid of it will instantly brighten up the area.

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How to do it: The tried-and-true method is good old-fashioned scrubbing. Grab a stiff-bristle brush and physically scrub the moss or mildew off the surface. You can do this after a pressure wash or independently of it. Often, it helps to pre-treat the moss to make it easier to remove. One easy trick is to sprinkle plain baking soda on mossy patches and let it sit overnight – the baking soda will dry out and kill the moss. Next day, sweep or rinse away the powder and dead moss, then scrub any remnants. Alternatively, use a bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) or a specialized moss remover product; spray it on, let it sit for 15-20 minutes (it will kill the moss and mildew), then scrub and rinse. Vinegar is another eco-friendly option to kill moss – spray straight white vinegar on the area on a dry day, let it sit, then come back and scrub. The key is killing the growth so it doesn’t immediately regrow after you clean it.

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When scrubbing, use a long-handled stiff brush or push broom with stiff bristles. Apply some elbow grease and scrape that green stuff off. You might need to rinse and repeat if it’s very established. For mildew (the blackish slick areas), a light bleach solution and brush will usually do the trick, or a pressure washer can often blast it away as well. Don’t forget to scrub between any cracks or along the edges where moss likes to hide. If weeds have sprouted in cracks or along the sides, pull those out too – they can invite more dirt and moss.

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Best practices: Choose a cool, overcast day or work in the morning/evening so your cleaning solution (bleach, vinegar, etc.) doesn’t just evaporate in the hot sun. Protect your plants – if you’re using bleach or a moss killer, wet down the nearby grass or plants first and rinse them after, so they don’t absorb it. Wear gloves if using chemical cleaners. For large driveways, tackle one section at a time so the solution doesn’t dry out before you scrub. Dispose of the moss you scrub off (don’t sweep it into your lawn, or it might try to grow there!). If certain shady spots repeatedly get mossy, you might even consider trimming back overhanging branches to allow more sunlight, which discourages moss.

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Common mistakes to avoid: One mistake is ignoring small patches of moss – thinking they’re harmless. If you see green, act on it before it spreads. Another mistake: using a pressure washer on full power directly on thick moss without pre-treating – you might end up stripping off part of the concrete surface because the moss is clinging so tightly. It’s better to kill or loosen the moss first, then wash or scrub it off. Also, be cautious with bleach; a solution that’s too strong can lighten concrete (and kill grass alongside), so don’t go overboard – more contact time, not stronger concentration, is usually the safer bet. Finally, don’t use metal-bristle brushes on concrete or brick pavers – they can leave metal bits behind that rust, causing new stains. Stick to stiff plastic bristles or natural fiber brushes for scrubbing.

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Recommended Tool: Scrubbing is a lot easier with the right brush. We suggest a tool like the ITTAHO Floor Scrub Brush with Long Handle for driveway cleaning. It has stiff bristles ideal for concrete and outdoor surfaces, and a long handle so you can scrub standing up (saving your back and knees). It’s great not only for moss and mildew, but also for scrubbing any tough stains or simply giving the driveway a good scouring after applying cleaner. You can find the ITTAHO Stiff-Bristle Floor Scrub Brush on Amazon.ca. Pair this brush with your preferred cleaning solution, and those green and black patches won’t stand a chance!

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5. They Repair Cracks and Damage Early

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A clean driveway isn’t just about cleaning — it’s also about maintenance. Folks who keep their driveways looking flawless know that small cracks or damage can turn into big messes if ignored. So, they make it a habit to inspect and repair cracks as part of their spring driveway routine. Winter’s freeze-thaw cycles can be brutal, often causing cracks or widening existing ones. By fixing those issues early in the spring, you prevent weeds from taking root in them, stop dirt from accumulating, and avoid larger repairs down the road. A smoothly maintained driveway is not only safer and longer-lasting, but it also looks cleaner since you won’t have grass or weeds poking through or jagged cracks catching the eye.

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How to do it: After you’ve done your spring cleaning (sweeping and washing), take a slow walk around your driveway. Look for any cracks, potholes, or crumbling edges. For small cracks in concrete, you can use a liquid crack filler or a concrete patch compound. For asphalt driveways, there are asphalt crack filler products (some come in easy squeeze bottles or as pourable liquids) and asphalt patch for small potholes. Clean out the crack first – use a screwdriver or stiff brush to get any loose debris or weeds out, and if it’s dusty, a quick blast with a hose or pressure washer (on low pressure) will clear it. Let it dry, then fill the crack according to the product instructions. Usually, you want to slightly overfill and then level it off with a trowel or putty knife so it’s smooth with the surrounding surface. Deeper cracks may require a second pass after the first filler settles. For potholes or broken chunks, a cold patch asphalt can be tamped into the hole (if concrete, you might need a vinyl concrete patch mix).

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If your driveway has expansion joints (common in concrete slabs), check those too – if the filler material in the joints is gone, consider replacing it to prevent water intrusion. This might be more involved, but at least you’ll be aware of any bigger issues.

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Why it helps keep it “clean”: A filled crack not only prevents further damage, but it also stops dirt from accumulating in the crack. Open cracks trap soil, which then sprouts weeds or moss – leading to that neglected look. When you fill and seal them, you can sweep and wash the driveway more effectively. It’s much nicer to look at a smooth driveway than one with cracks running through it.

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Best practices: Tackle repairs on a day when no rain is expected and the temperature is moderate (most fillers and patch products cure best in mild temperatures, not freezing and not scorching hot). Follow the curing time on the product – for example, keep cars off a patched area for the recommended time. If you have to fill a lot of cracks, work in sections so you don’t accidentally step or drive on your fresh repairs. Keep some sand or fine gravel on hand; for asphalt patch, sprinkling a little sand on top before it fully hardens can help it blend in and not stick to tires or shoes. After fixing cracks, it’s wise to seal the driveway (next habit!) to further protect those repairs and the entire surface.

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Common mistakes to avoid: A big mistake is putting off crack repairs, thinking they’re purely cosmetic. Those cracks can expand and even let water undermine the driveway. Another mistake is filling cracks when they’re wet or dirty – the filler may not adhere well and will pop out. Make sure the crack is clean and dry. Don’t overfill a crack without smoothing it out; you don’t want a bump. And avoid using the wrong type of filler – for instance, some people try to fill concrete cracks with wood putty or other wrong materials (it sounds silly, but it happens). Use products meant for your driveway material. Lastly, don’t ignore the edges – if the sides of your driveway are crumbling, shore them up or patch them. Clean edges give a neat, clean appearance.

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Note: Most crack repair products are available at hardware stores and online. If you’re unsure which to get, read reviews or ask a store associate for a recommendation suitable for the size of the crack and the driveway type. Investing a little effort in repairs each spring will save you from major headaches (and expenses) later on.

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6. They Seal and Protect the Driveway Surface

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The final habit of people with ultra-clean driveways is that they protect their driveway with a sealant when needed. Over time, concrete and asphalt can get porous or develop tiny fissures that trap dirt and stains. Applying a driveway sealer periodically (every couple of years or as recommended) helps create a protective barrier against water, oil, and UV damage. This means your driveway stays cleaner since spills can’t penetrate as easily and grime doesn’t embed into the surface. Sealing also rejuvenates the look – it can make faded asphalt look jet black again or give concrete a subtle sheen that looks fresh and dust-free.

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How to do it: First, make sure your driveway is completely clean (that’s where all the previous habits come into play!). You generally want to seal in the spring or early summer, when the weather is dry and mild. For asphalt driveways, you’d use an asphalt sealer – usually sold in 5-gallon buckets – and spread it with a squeegee or roller in an even coat. For concrete driveways, there are clear penetrating sealers or film-forming sealers; some you apply with a garden sprayer or roller. Always read the instructions on the specific sealer. The basics: pick a stretch of days with no rain, clean and dry the driveway, then apply the sealer in sections. Watch out that you don’t paint yourself into a corner – start at the top of the driveway and work towards the exit so you can step off without walking on it.

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For concrete, a penetrating sealer (like a silane/siloxane based sealer) will soak in and block water and salts – it’s great for keeping that concrete looking new without changing its appearance. There are also “wet look” sealers that add a slight gloss or enhance color if you have decorative concrete or pavers. For asphalt, the sealant is more like a coating that fills in tiny cracks and renews the black color. In both cases, sealing will make future cleaning easier: oil or liquids won’t seep in as quickly, giving you more time to wipe them up, and dirt won’t grab hold as much.

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Best practices: Plan on sealing your driveway every 2-3 years (or as needed – if water stops beading on the surface, it might be time to reseal). Always repair cracks and clean thoroughly before sealing – you don’t want to trap any dirt or imperfections under the sealer. Pick a day with mild temperatures (not too hot or cold) and no rain in the forecast for at least 24 hours so the sealer can properly dry/cure. If you’re using a solvent-based sealer for concrete, wear a mask and ensure proper ventilation (for outdoor it’s usually fine, just don’t breathe the fumes directly). Use old clothes and shoes; sealing can be a bit messy. Block off the driveway so no one accidentally drives or walks on it while it cures – usually you need to keep off it for 24-48 hours (check your product’s instructions).

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Common mistakes to avoid: Don’t seal a dirty or wet driveway – you’ll end up sealing in the dirt or trapping moisture (which could cause the sealer to peel or not adhere). Also, avoid applying a thick coat thinking it will last longer; it’s better to do two thin coats than one thick one that might not dry evenly. For asphalt, don’t apply sealer in cold weather, as it won’t cure properly. And be careful not to get sealer on adjacent surfaces (like garage doors, sidewalks, or curbs) – use tape or shields for edges, because sealants can stain things like concrete patios or brick if you splash on them. Another mistake is sealing too often – more is not always better. If you overdo it, layers of sealer can build up and flake. Stick to the recommended frequency for your product and climate.

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Recommended Sealant: Choosing a high-quality driveway sealer will ensure you get long-lasting protection. For concrete driveways, a product like Black Diamond Stoneworks Durable Water Repellent Sealer is a great option. It’s a clear penetrating sealer that protects concrete, pavers, and brick from water, salt, and stains for up to 10 years, all while keeping the natural look of the surface. This means fewer oil stains and less mold/mildew growth since moisture can’t seep in easily. You can find the Black Diamond Stoneworks Concrete Sealer on Amazon.ca – one quart covers a good area and will shield your driveway against the elements. For asphalt driveways, look for a top-rated asphalt sealer at your local hardware store (many aren’t sold online due to shipping restrictions), or check if Amazon.ca offers an asphalt sealer suitable for DIY use. The key is to use a product that reviewers say is durable and easy to apply. With the right sealant applied, your driveway will not only look cleaner day-to-day, but it will also stay cleaner and last longer.

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Keeping a driveway consistently clean and beautiful comes down to these six habits practiced regularly. To recap, frequently clearing debris, addressing spills and stains immediately, pressure washing away grime in spring, scrubbing out moss and weeds, repairing small cracks, and sealing the surface when needed will transform your driveway from drab to fab. The spring season is an ideal time to do a thorough driveway overhaul because you can wash away winter’s aftermath and prep the driveway for the warm months ahead. By incorporating these habits into your home maintenance routine, you’ll enjoy a driveway that not only looks great and boosts your curb appeal, but also stands up better against wear and tear. So go ahead – put on some tunes, grab your cleaning gear, and give your driveway the spring makeover it deserves. With the right tools (and the product recommendations above), driveway maintenance becomes totally doable. Before you know it, your driveway will be so clean, you could eat off it – though maybe use a plate! 😉 Enjoy your sparkling clean driveway and the envy of the neighborhood, all season long. Here’s to a cleaner, brighter, and safer driveway this spring!