Outdoor Patio Decorating Ideas For Summer

That time is approaching again. Summer is just months away and that means Bar-B-Que's, pool parties, and summer outdoor entertaining. Getting your patio cleaned and ready is a great way to bring in the summer and be ready for company.

Here are some patio decorating ideas to help get your backyard ready for company.

Cleaning away the debris and mess from the icky colder months can be a pain, but cleaning up the patio first before considering any outdoor decorating is most important. For most patio furniture, especially plastic patio furniture, hot soapy water and a good scrub brush is going to be your best defense again the grit and grime that has built up over the months.

If you are having a tough time cleaning the patio floor, a degreaser may be beneficial depending on what type of patio flooring you have. Otherwise, hot soapy water will always be a great bet for removing pollen, tree debris and dirt.

If your patio is made of wood. Consider doing a protective stain if the previous has started to wear.

If you don't currently have patio lighting. It can be a welcome addition for late night outdoor poker games or for just casually hanging out in the warm air. Landscape lights are unobtrusive and can be placed around the yard or patio.

The newer solar patio lights are great because they can be placed anywhere and you never have to worry about cords or hooking to the electrical boxes. Plus they save money if you were considering using the traditional types.

Some nights, its colder and an outdoor patio fireplace can be a great way to warm up while winding down from a long day. On the warmer days, an outdoor fireplace can add ambiance and make a patio feel inviting.

Patio fireplaces can be gas or wood fueled. The wood feuled seemingly a better option if you have a source for cheap firewood.

Wood Patio Swings are not just for entertaining. Sitting out in the summer air reading a book while gently swinging can be incredibly relaxing. You can buy unfinished wood swings so that you can paint or stain to match your patios decor.

Don't forget the cushions. Fabric cushions will need to be washed and cleaned regularly and the sun can sometimes fade the fabric. There are plastic cushions that are made to look and feel as soft as a cushion made of fabric. To save money, consider making your own.

A backyard and patio full of green plants will look good and doesn't require a lot of care. Flowers can sometimes be much more work and green plants can be just as great plus they maintain their look for longer with little maintance.

A few painted flower pots or beds placed around the patio will take a empty canvas and brighten it up.