WHEN the cooler weather hits, it usually means less time spent outdoors and play equipment can go unused for months at a time.

So what do you do that the swing set or play house during the winter months and how do you stop it from getting grotty over time? Well, the answer is simple.

All you need is washing up liquid Velko Velkov from Fantastic Services tells Fabulous, and even if your play equipment does get dirty, this secret weapon will get it sparkling in no time.

Velko explains: “You do not need anything else than dish soap, warm water and a bristle brush.

“Mix the dish soap with the water, put on some rubber gloves and brush the little dirt built up under the covers. Once you are done, rinse the soap off and leave the sun to do the rest.”

Not only is washing up liquid versatile, and can be used for various household tasks, but it’s super cheap and can be picked up from Asda for as little as 55p.

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But there are some extra things you can do to protect the equipment over winter.

“When you start preparing your children’s equipment for the winter, there are a few things you need to have in mind,” says Velko, who’s the Regional Director in the Gloucester area.

“First, what material are they made of? Most playground-type equipment is made of plastic and painted metal, but some are made of wood.

“That is why before the temperatures go low and it starts snowing, protect those wooden ones.”

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An easy way is to coat these with waterproof sealant.

“You can find some outstanding ones for £3 – £5,” he says. But the good news is that one tub will last you a very long time, and it can be used for various household jobs.

“Second, are there parts that can be removed and stored inside? As well, are some more suitable for warmer weather?” he says.

Pieces like swings and canopies should be stored inside during the winter, as low temperatures damage them. So if possible move them into the garage, a shed or inside the home.

Finally, to help keep your children’s equipment safe and clean during the winter, cover it with all-purpose garden fabric, nylon or any other waterproof fabric, Velko advises.

“Many waterproof fabrics are expensive, but you can find some for less than £5,” he says.

“You can cut those in the size and shape that suits you the most, and you can easily brush the snow off them.”

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Another cheap item that’ll work wonders is vinegar, Sophie Herrmann, spokesperson at Jeyes Fluid, previously told Fabulous, and you can pick up a bottle for less than £1.

Vinegar is great to clean paddling pools and non-electronic toys, including plastic and wooden, particularly to help banish mould and mildew.

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