Trevor Knight, a technical garden and driveway specialist for Marshalls, explained why white vinegar shouldn't be used on garden patios.

"Vinegar can harm the biodiversity of your garden," Knight warned. "White vinegar solutions can damage and kill plants."

He elaborated: "This may be the ideal outcome for those wanting to rid their patio of weeds.

"However, if this solution were to make its way onto your plants and grass, the result would be less than desirable."

Knight said the use of acidic solutions, such as white vinegar "should be avoided", especially on calcareous pavers such as those made from limestone.

"Use on these pavers can lead to irreparable damage of the material," he stated.

Moreover, bleach should also be avoided due to its power to harm plants and reduce biodiversity.

He added: "Any bleach solution that runs off of the patio onto grass or plants when cleaning can cause significant harm... likely causing them to die."

Knight stressed: "Over time, bleach can also lead to discolouration and irreparable damage to paving slabs, particularly those that are man-made such as concrete slabs."

Instead of white vinegar or bleach to clean garden paving stones, soapy water is recommended.

Knight explained: "For the soapy water method, you will need a hard-bristled brush and an eco-friendly cleaning agent.

"Opting for an eco-friendly cleaning agent is crucial for protecting waterways and wildlife, ensuring no harsh chemicals are being washed away into natural water courses or borders of the garden, causing damage to delicate trees and plants."

Knight said: "Mix your chosen cleaning agent with warm water and start from the corners of your patio slabs, working inwards. Rinse and repeat until you’re happy with the result.

"When finished, rinse with clean water to ensure any loose dirt or residue has been removed."

Knight advised: "Avoid washing suds and soap into a drainage point that’s a one-part system designed for rainwater only."

A pressure washer can also be extremely useful in cleaning garden pavers, but caution is necessary.

Knight explained: "You must take caution when using this method as it can damage your pavers if done incorrectly.

"Don't hold the pressure washer too close to the slabs as it may cause permanent damage. You should start on a low-pressure setting to reduce [that risk]."