How to Remove Concrete Stains

Tired of looking at concrete stains on your driveway, patio, or garage? Whether it's a new mess or an old stain, there are plenty of tricks to help you remove tough stains from concrete surfaces around your home. The key is finding the right tools for the job, and sometimes those tools vary depending on what type of stain you're working to remove. So let's roll up our sleeves, get the cleaning products ready, and learn how to tackle some of the most common types of concrete stains.

• Removing Oil Stains
  Oil stains are among the most common concrete stains, especially in garages and driveways. The first key to removing oil stains is, if possible, to start working on the stain right away. Absorb as much oil as you can with clay or cat litter, and rub it into the stain with a stiff brush. Leave the cat litter or clay for at least an hour – or overnight for tough stains – then sweep it up. For new or small stains, this may be all you need.
  
  For severe oil stains, try using oven cleaner. Spray the oven cleaner over the stain, work it in with a stiff brush, and let it sit for 10 minutes. After that, spray it off with your hose on the highest setting.
• Removing Rust Stains
  Rust stains can have many origins, from hard water in your irrigation system to metal patio furniture that has seen better days. Just like with oil stains, it helps to start working on rust stains as soon as possible when you spot them. For a new rust stain, a simple solution of white vinegar rubbed into the stain and left for 10 minutes before you wash it off, may be enough to get the job done.
  
  Older or larger rust stains may require a stronger cleaning solution. For those, you'll want to use a commercial rust remover, while making sure you wear the correct protective gear like eye and hand protection. 
• Removing Mud and Other Organic Stains
  Whether you live in a forested area or merely have a few trees around, it's relatively easy for organic stains to form on concrete from leaves, mud, and other plant matter. Typically, these stains won't require a strong commercial cleaner. Instead, you can mix a solution of 1/8 cup dishwashing detergent with warm water in a spray bottle. Spray the stain, let it sit for ten minutes, then scrub vigorously with a stiff brush. When you're satisfied that the stain is gone, hose the area down thoroughly.
• What about a Power Washer for Removing Stains?
  While we have focused on DIY tips that you can try mostly with items that are already around your house, there are other tools available that may help. Renting a power washer can be a great way to remove stains from concrete surfaces, though it won't always get rid of the toughest stains on its own. You can rent a power washer for a day from a local home improvement center, and the cost shouldn't be too expensive. Just make sure that you follow all of the instructions for using the machine, including wearing goggles and gloves to help protect you from the high-pressure water flow.

Removing concrete stains can be a challenge, but it's easier when you remember that there's a tool for every job. Learn what works best for the type of stain you're trying to remove, and you can dramatically improve even the toughest stains.

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