5 Surprising outdoor uses for Pine-Sol you’ll wish you knew sooner

Pine-Sol has been around forever and is great for cleaning up messes inside the house—from greasy stovetops to dirty floors. But did you know this powerful multi-purpose cleaner is just as effective outdoors? From deterring pests to freshening up your deck, Pine-Sol can help you tackle some of the most common (and frustrating!) outdoor challenges.

Here are five unexpected ways to put Pine-Sol to work outside your home.

1. Keep wasps away from outdoor spaces

While wasps play a helpful role in controlling garden pests like flies and caterpillars, no one wants them buzzing around during a backyard barbecue. Their stings can be painful—and for some, dangerous.

Pro tip: To discourage wasps from nesting near your home, mix 80% original Pine-Sol with 20% water in a spray bottle. Spray around eaves, porch ceilings, and other overhangs—common nesting spots for wasps. Reapply every few days or whenever you notice increased wasp activity for best results.

Safety reminder: Avoid spraying directly on plants, as the concentrated solution may damage delicate foliage.

2. Naturally deter flies from patios and decks

Flies can turn a relaxing evening outdoors into an annoying experience in seconds. Fortunately, Pine-Sol’s pine oil scent is known to repel these pests naturally.

Quick mix: Combine equal parts Pine-Sol and water, then spray around outdoor seating areas, patio furniture, and doorways to help keep flies at bay. Bonus: It leaves a fresh, clean scent behind!

3. Raccoon-proof your outdoor trash bins

Overturned trash cans and scattered garbage bags litter a grassy area near a wooded backyard in the Poconos region of Pennsylvania. The mess, caused by foraging wildlife, includes a large black County Waste bin and various plastic bags spilled across the lawn. This scene highlights the challenges of living near nature and the need for proper waste management in areas frequented by animals.

Raccoons may look cute, but the mess they leave behind when they rummage through trash cans? Not so much. The strong, distinct scent of Pine-Sol works as a natural deterrent, making your trash cans less appealing to curious critters.

What to do: Wash your outdoor bins regularly with Pine-Sol and water. For extra protection, wipe down the lids and surrounding area with a Pine-Sol solution. This not only keeps raccoons away but also helps eliminate lingering odors.

4. Refresh and clean a weathered deck

Scrubbing a deck with cleaner and deck brush

Sun, rain, and everyday use can leave your deck looking dull and dirty. Pine-Sol is a simple yet effective way to refresh it and bring back its natural beauty.

Deck cleaning solution: Mix ¼ cup Pine-Sol with 2 gallons of water. Use a scrub brush or mop to clean the surface, paying extra attention to stained or grimy spots. Rinse with water and let it dry before entertaining or adding furniture.

Note: Always test a small, hidden area first to ensure the solution doesn’t affect your deck’s finish.

5. Remove oil and stains from concrete

cleaning concrete driveway with deck brush

Stubborn oil spots and rust stains on driveways or garage floors are a common eyesore. Pine-Sol makes cleanup easier with its grease-cutting power.

How to use: Combine 1 gallon of warm water with 1/8 cup of Pine-Sol. Scrub the stained area with a stiff deck brush, then rinse thoroughly. Repeat if needed for tougher stains. Your concrete will look refreshed and ready for action.

Pine-Sol isn’t just for indoor cleaning. Its versatility, fresh scent, and effectiveness make it a must-have for outdoor upkeep, too. From pest control to stain removal, these five outdoor uses are proof that a little Pine-Sol goes a long way.

Tip: Always use Pine-Sol in well-ventilated areas and keep it out of reach of pets and children when in use or stored.