Washing environmesh

[BarleySugar]

Last year I used environmesh to cover my kale, sprouts and cabbage, whihc worked very well. I actually managed to harvest a variety of brassicas undamaged by caterpillars and pigeons. When I took it off I shook it out, but it really needed a wash. Needless to say, I didn't get around to it then, so when I wanted to plant out my sprouts and I saw cabbage whites around, I thought I'd better get round to the washing.
Now because of the height of the plants and length of the bed, the mesh is quite large. It fitted into the washing machine, but it was too compacted to come clean. I then put it in the bath with some washing liquid and soaked it for a day. More dirt came off, but there are still a few discoloured patches. Then, where to put it? DD came up with the idea of draping it over the greenhouse. It almost covers the whole greenhouse. We spread it over and used clothes pegs to hold it on. When it stops raining, it will dry and then I can fold it up and put it away.
Does anyone have any other ideas of the best way to deal with cleaning the mesh? OH suggested spreading it out on the drive, and scrubbing it with a brush (on my hands and knees ). I don't think so!

[Bren In Pots]

Put it over the washing line and pressure wash it, or use a hose thats if you've not got a hosepipe ban. Otherwise just leave it on the line for the rain to clean it.

[lottie dolly]

thanks for the heads up BS,must have a look at mine,it lay unused last year,some parts on the weave has slipped out of line,thus letting some bugs in,to big a lump for the washing machine,so sounds like a bath job,unless i get it cut up into suitable lengths,previously used on a large walk in cage,and is to much to move location every year,am thinking carrots at the mo,

[zazen999]

I just put mine into the machine and it came out fine. Perhaps I've got a smaller amount though!

I'd put it over the line and scrub with your choice of cleaning agent and leave the rain to rinse it.

[BarleySugar]

I haven't got a washing line anymore, there isn't any room in the garden. We usually just put the airers on the patio for most, and tumble sheets and towels. OH wouldn't have his stuff hung out anyway, it might pick up a bug he's getting strange in his old age
We have got a hosepipe ban, if I'd thought it about it earlier (before the ban) that's what I would have used that, with the mesh spread on the drive probably as that was where I used to cut it originally. I'll try to attack the worst bits again, it's mainly around the edges so that is more likely to be buried.

[Snadger]

I don't wash mine, it looks more natural that way!

Thought about painting a mural on it with acylic paints to tidy it up though!

[Alison]

I don't wash mine, it looks more natural that way!

Thank goodness for that, thought it was just me that didn't bother . Do brush it down and remove and big lumps of dirt but that's all.

[ladylottie]

Thank goodness for that, thought it was just me that didn't bother . Do brush it down and remove and big lumps of dirt but that's all.

I didn't like to say before, but I don't bother washing mine either - I do the same as you and brush off the worst of the soil and dirt.

[Alison]

I didn't like to say before, but I don't bother washing mine either - I do the same as you and brush off the worst of the soil and dirt.

Excellent, that's at least 3 of us - maybe we'll give other's the confidence to come out too

[veggiechicken]

After washing, does anyone iron it?

[Aberdeenplotter]

washing up liquid will not be effective. A soak in a solution of biological washing powder would be better.

[Nicos]

Excellent, that's at least 3 of us - maybe we'll give other's the confidence to come out too

...make that 4 of us!

[Tripmeup]

Five!!!!!!!!

[lottie dolly]

after reading the newer post's, i can become no 6 ,phew that's stretched time a bit further,but still need to sort it out and use is to better advantage,