Just like all the other floorings out there, concrete also gets dirty and requires a thorough cleaning every now and then. However, it is much more long-lasting and easier to clean than other floor types, and this is what makes concrete the top choice of many homeowners. From driveways to patios, here is a simple and quick guide on how to clean concrete floors.
Concrete Cleaning Guide: Do it like a Pro
Tools Required
- Vacuum, broom, or leaf blower
- Stiff nylon brush
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- Laundry detergent
- Spray bottle
- Pressure washer
- Safety goggles
Step 1: Prepare the Floor
Use a vacuum cleaner or a broom to clear all the dust and debris before cleaning. If there is a mold or mildew problem, don’t use a vacuum or broom on it, as you will end up spreading the spores around the area, and that will lead to a much bigger problem to deal with. We have explained it later how to deal with mold on concrete before cleaning. While cleaning patios or driveways, remove and treat any weeds that may be present in cracks.
Step 2: Deal with Stains
The liquid laundry detergent at your home is much more powerful than you think; use it to remove spot stains on your concrete floor. Pour some detergent over the stained area directly and use a stiff nylon brush to scrub the stain. Rinse it with water and let it dry.
Step 3: Take the Help of More Powerful Cleaners
Just like some nuts are tough to crack, some stains are stubborn to be washed away by the detergent. You can amp up your concrete cleaning strategy by taking the help of more powerful soldiers in your artillery. We are talking about vinegar and baking soda. For stubborn stains, prepare a mixture of vinegar and water or a paste of baking soda and water. Apply it on the stain, scrub well, and rinse it with water.
Step 4: Use a Pressure Washer
The final and the most powerful way to deal with concrete stains is to use a power washer. If you don’t have it, you can buy attachments that convert your garden hose into a pressure washer, or you can rent it. If you use a pressure washer, make sure you select the right pressure setting, as a wrong pressure can damage concrete, pots, plants, windows, or other things that it may come in contact with. The guys at the rental shop will be able to guide you on this. While you are working with a pressure washer, make sure you wear safety goggles.
Now that’s all for a general cleanup session; if you are dealing with specific stains, keep reading!
How to Remove Grease and Oil Stains from Concrete?
If the stain is fresh, sprinkle some baking soda, sawdust, or cornmeal over it and let it absorb as much as it can. Then clean the remaining powder with a broom. If the stain still remains, you can use a paste of baking soda and water on it. For dried, old, and stubborn stains, the battle is not lost until you give it up. Most of the time, a pressure washer will give them a run for their money, or you can buy a degreaser and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for using it.
How to Clean Rust Stains on Concrete Floors?
A mixture of white vinegar and water can prove extremely fruitful when it comes to the rust stains on concrete floors. Pour the mixture over the floor and let it sit for 20-30 minutes and scrub with a brush. Now rinse with clean water, and the stain will be gone. If you still see some remnants, repeat the process. For rust stains that are decades old, we suggest you use commercial rust cleaner made specifically for concrete floors.
How to Clean Mold and Mildew on Concrete Floors?
As already mentioned, using a broom or vacuum on moldy floors can aggravate the problem. To deal with mold, open the windows but don’t turn on the fan. Use a mold-killing agent while following the instructions on the bottle. Some people might suggest using bleach and water; we recommend you don’t use it. Bleach is corrosive and can cause discoloration.
Is it Necessary to Apply Concrete Sealer after Every Cleaning?
No. You don’t need to apply concrete sealer after every cleaning. A sealer is needed every 2-3 years for outdoors and every 3-5 years for interior surfaces.
General Maintenance Tips for Concrete Floors
- Clean concrete floors every 6 to 12 months to keep them in pristine form.
- Remove all the objects on the floor before cleaning.
- Test your cleaner on a small inconspicuous area of floor to check that the cleaner will not cause any discoloration or fading.
- Avoid a wire-bristle brush while scrubbing the concrete, as metal can damage the surface.
- For basements, move the stuff to one area, clean it, and then clean the remaining parts.
- Look out for any cracks or chips and repair them before cleaning.
When Should I Call the Pros for Concrete Cleaning?
Before you take that route, and it is quite an expensive one nowadays, there are a couple of things that you can try: muriatic acid and trisodium phosphate (TSP). Both of these are highly toxic and can be harmful if not handled with care.
Muriatic acid can cause damage to skin, eyes, and lungs. If you opt for it, make sure you read all the instructions on the packing and wear heavy-duty protective clothing and a respirator while working with it. The other one, Trisodium Phosphate (TSP), is highly caustic and is banned in many states. So, make sure you check the local laws before using it.
Are you looking for professional concrete flooring installation services in Cincinnati, Ohio? Then look no further. Concretecincy offers top-quality and affordable solutions to meet your needs. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us work our magic with your floors.