Mrs Hinch fans share simple method that kills weeds 'straight away'

Garden enthusiasts are being urged to ditch chemical weed killers and instead opt for more eco-friendly methods which yield effective results. Unsightly weeds that pop up between paving slabs, in driveway cracks, or on patios can be a real headache, but using harsh chemicals can harm the environment and pose risks to pets and wildlife.

Fans of cleaning guru Mrs Hinch, also known as Sophie Hinchliffe, have been swapping their best natural weed-fighting tips online. Mrs Hinch, who shares her advice with more than 4.8 million Instagram followers, encourages people to share their gardening and homecare tips in dedicated Facebook groups, reports Nottinghamshire Live.

In one such group, a member named Julie Lucas sought advice, asking: "Any ideas for killing weeds on patio slabs please?" The post racked up almost 50 responses, with boiling water seeming to be the top recommendation.

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Gill Cardwell Jones suggested: "Boil your kettle and while it's still bubbling, pour over the weeds and they'll never come back. My gardener told me that and it works great. Obviously, don't do it to weeds on your grass though."

Victoria Jewell agreed, saying: "I just boil the kettle and pour it on. Kills them straight away! " A number of other members also endorsed the use of boiling water to eradicate weeds.

Facebook user Natalie Dawson recommended adding salt to the boiling water for another straightforward yet effective solution. The boiling water scorches the plant's roots, while the salt dehydrates the weeds, helping to kill them off even faster.

It's particularly handy for treating weeds on hard surfaces like paths and driveways. Garden enthusiasts are warned, however, to avoid using this technique on lawns or among flowers, as it can damage plants and grass.

Mrs Hinch fans have also suggested alternative methods for tackling weeds, including the use of plain salt, white vinegar, and even a weed burner. Irene Ducros swears by a simple approach, explaining: "Salt - just salt. It does the job. I've been using it for years now and nothing else seems to work."

Jan Mchugh offered her own concoction: "Mixture of salt, washing up liquid and white vinegar," while Ally East shared her experience: "I tried the vinegar and washing up water method and it works, but have now decided that I like the effect of moss in amongst my slabs. Gives it a cottage-y feel, like the paving you see in gardens of listed buildings. I just pull up the weeds."

Liz Hogan revealed her winning approach: "One litre of white vinegar. Do it when the sun is on it." Meanwhile Jacqui Spelman recommended another vinegar-based solution: "I was told pure vinegar they get in the chippies and water it down. I used it and it's brilliant. Does the job and quickly. Just don't get it on the grass as it burns it."

Lastly, Paula Forester detailed an alternative method for dealing with weeds, stating: "I use a weed burner. It kills right down to the root."