10 Cleaning Projects That Are Easier When It’s Hot Outside

Summer heat isn’t always the enemy. When it comes to certain cleaning jobs, the high temps actually work in your favor. Water dries faster, sun helps kill bacteria, and you don’t have to worry about dragging the mess inside.

Some projects that feel like a chore in cooler weather are quicker and less frustrating when you do them in the heat. So if you’re already sweating—might as well knock out the stuff that benefits from it.

Washing Outdoor Rugs

Warm weather speeds up dry time, which means you can deep clean your rugs without worrying about mildew. Hose them down, scrub with dish soap or diluted vinegar, then rinse and lay them flat in the sun. Even thick ones will dry out fully by the end of the day.

This works for doormats, patio rugs, and even the ones you roll out for playtime. The heat helps loosen dirt, too, so you’re not scrubbing as hard to get a clean finish.

Deep Cleaning Trash Cans

Hot weather might make your trash cans smell worse, but it also makes it easier to clean them out. The heat loosens up gunk and grime, and since they’re already outside, it’s easy to dump, spray, and scrub.

Use a mix of dish soap and vinegar or bleach, rinse thoroughly, and let them air dry with the lid open. The sun will help kill bacteria and get rid of lingering smells.

Cleaning Windows and Screens

In summer, your window screens collect everything—pollen, dust, bugs, you name it. Cleaning them in the heat means they dry faster, and you can knock it out in the yard instead of dripping water through your house.

Pop them out, spray with a hose, scrub with a soft brush and soapy water, rinse, and let them dry in the sun. While they’re off, you can wipe down the windows too for a clearer view.

Disinfecting Plastic Toys

Big plastic toys are easier to clean when they’ve been baking in the sun. The heat softens grime, and the sun’s UV rays help kill off bacteria after you’ve scrubbed them down.

Bring out a bucket with soapy water or vinegar, scrub with a sponge or cloth, and rinse. Let them dry in the sun and they’ll be ready for your kids again in no time—no dragging them in and out of the house needed.

Cleaning Patio Furniture

Outdoor furniture needs more than a quick wipe during summer. But instead of trying to clean it piece by piece inside, take advantage of the heat. The grime lifts easier when the material’s warm, and full sets can air dry without soaking anything else.

Use a soft brush or sponge with warm, soapy water. For mildew or mold, a vinegar solution works well. Hose it all down and leave it in the sun to dry.

Power Washing Driveways and Walkways

Hot surfaces help lift up old stains, making pressure washing more effective. The sun also helps the area dry quickly, so you’re not dealing with slick concrete or standing puddles.

If you’ve got oil spots or algae patches, pretreat them with degreaser or a vinegar solution before spraying. Early morning or late afternoon is best so you’re not sweating through it, but the warm ground still helps do half the work.

Washing Car Floor Mats

Fabric or rubber mats are easier to clean when they’re warm. Dirt breaks up faster, and the sun can dry them completely before you throw them back in your car.

Use carpet cleaner on fabric mats or soap and water on rubber ones. Scrub, rinse, and hang them over a railing or fence. You’ll get fewer water spots and no mildew when they dry quickly in the sun.

Cleaning Out the Garage

Garages trap heat, so it’s not the most comfortable job—but it does help. Dust, cobwebs, and gunk are easier to sweep out when it’s dry. Any spills or sticky spots soften up in the heat, making them easier to scrub.

You can also use the driveway to temporarily move stuff out while you sweep or mop. Let things air out, give your bins a rinse, and reorganize before dragging it all back in.

Drying Washed Curtains or Bedding

Bulky fabric takes forever to dry indoors. Summer heat turns your backyard into a giant drying rack—no dryer needed. If you have a clean fence, clothesline, or even a few chairs, you’ve got enough to work with.

This works for curtains, blankets, cushion covers, and even bath mats. Bonus: sun exposure helps kill off odors and freshen up anything that’s been sitting too long in storage.

Disinfecting Cutting Boards and Sponges

Wooden cutting boards and kitchen sponges can harbor bacteria, but hot summer sun can help sanitize them naturally. After washing thoroughly, leave them out in full sun for a few hours.

It’s an easy way to keep bacteria under control without relying on harsh chemicals. This trick also works for wooden utensils or drying racks you don’t want to toss in the dishwasher.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.