This blog post is about our Backyard and Patio Refresh.
When we first moved into our townhouse, I had big dreams for our little backyard and patio. I envisioned warm summer nights with string lights twinkling above, coffee in the morning sun, and cozy dinners eaten al fresco. But somewhere along the way… life happened.
We used the patio as a storage catch- all. Old tools, unused bikes, patio furniture that had seen better days- it all lived there. And before I knew it, the space that was supposed to be a peaceful escape became something I avoided.
If you’ve been procrastinating tackling your own outdoor space, I get it. It’s overwhelming. Where do you even start? But here’s the good news: you don’t have to finish it in a weekend. You just have to start.
This post is the first in a little mini-series I’m calling Backyard and Patio Refresh, and today we’re talking about the cleaning phase- the least glamorous part, but honestly, the most important.
Why Cleaning First Makes All the Difference
Before we added a single new decor item or browsed Pinterest for ideas, we had to face the clutter. And I’ll be honest- it wasn’t fun. It took us three months of small, consistent steps. Some days it was 20 minutes; some days it was an hour. But every bag of trash we tossed, every old item we donated, gave us more mental clarity and physical space to dream again.
Eventually, we even scored some free brick and started to visualize something more beautiful for the space. That vision wouldn’t have been possible if we hadn’t first created a clean canvas.
My Top Tips for Cleaning and Decluttering Your Backyard
- Set Small, Achievable Goals
The biggest mistake? Thinking you have to do it all at once. Start with one small task: maybe it’s just cleaning off the outdoor table, or dragging one bag of trash to the bin. Remind yourself this is a journey, not a one-day project. Small steps compound into big progress.
✨ Blogger Tip: Keep a sticky note with 1-3 mini tasks written down for each day. It keeps you focused without feeling overwhelmed.
2. Clear the Trash and Clutter
Start by removing anything broken, unused, or out of place. We cleared out duplicates of tools, an old grill we never used, and bags of general junk. We filled 2-4 trash bags a day for two straight weeks- and every bag felt like a win.
🎉 Bonus: The more space you create, the more creative you get. Vision loves a tidy foundation.
3. Weed and Rake It All Out
Once the trash is gone, turn to the natural clutter. Weeds, dead plants, random growth… it all adds to the feeling of chaos. Give yourself grace here- it might take a few days depending on the size of your yard. I literally set a timer for 20 minutes on some days, and that still made a difference.
4. Donate What You Don’t Use
We also set aside any decent items we weren’t using to donate: pots, cushions, garden tool, and outdoor decor that no longer matched our vibe. It felt good to pass them along rather than toss everything.
5. Reimagine Your Clean Slate
As we cleared things out, ideas started to bloom. We never expected to lay brick, but once the junk was gone, inspiration struck. You don’t have to know your final plan yet. Just clean up and let the possibilities come to you.
Final Thought: You’re Closer Than You Think
If you’ve been putting off your backyard refresh because you’re not sure where to begin- this is your sign. Start small, start messy, start with a trash bag in one hand. You’ll be amazed how much energy and motivation returns once the clutter is cleared.
And don’t worry, I’ll be sharing the next phase in this series soon: Backyard and Patio Planning: Design a Space That Works For You.
Here we have Louis. already enjoying the start of what is going to be our new favorite place to be!
Let’s turn that “someday” patio into your favorite part of the house!💫
Before you go, here’s another Blog Post I think you’d enjoy! If you love a great smelling home click here to read How To Keep Your Home Smelling Amazing All The Time.
xo, Julia
