
Pressure washers can penetrate concrete pores and wash out the dirt and grease. If you still have stains after completing step three, try using a pressure washer. STEP 4: Use a pressure washer to clean outdoor concrete. But if the stains won’t budge, you may need to scrub the area with TSP and then rinse with the hose to lift the stains. In some cases, this is all you need to do. STEP 3: Treat stains with a mild detergent or TSP.Īpply a mild detergent directly to tough stains and scrub with a stiff-bristled brush. If you’re working around plants and grass, be sure to soak them well with a garden hose prior to cleaning the concrete, as this will prevent the cleaning solution from penetrating the roots.
Scrubbing broom how to#
Outdoor cleaning projects: Similarly, if you’re wondering how to clean a concrete patio, or another outdoor surface, start by sweeping the surface clean with a broom or use a leaf blower to remove dirt, grit, and gravel.You’ll be using cleaning solutions, so remove anything that might not be able to stand up to detergents. To start, remove any furniture, tools, housewares, and other items from the concrete surface. Indoor cleaning projects: Learning how to clean concrete floors isn’t tricky.But either way, you should prepare the area before you start, just as you would if you were painting a concrete floor. The approach you use to prepare and clean concrete can depend on whether the concrete is outside or inside. STEP 2: Prepare the concrete to be cleaned. Instead, start with something a bit milder. If you can’t figure out what was used, don’t start cleaning with harsh chemicals like muriatic acid.
Scrubbing broom pro#
Pro tip: It’s not always easy to determine the type of concrete sealer used, especially when the concrete has weathered.

Their durability means that you can use acidic cleaning agents, if necessary, as well as a stiff-bristled brush.

You can use a stiff-bristled brush to tackle tougher stains.

It’s best to stick with a mild detergent as opposed to acidic cleaners, unless absolutely necessary. The protective film they form is relatively durable, so you can safely use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub away stains.

If a sealer wasn’t used, stick with a mild detergent or a solution of trisodium phosphate (TSP). STEP 1: Determine the type of sealer the concrete has.īefore you can clean concrete, determine what type of sealer was applied, if any, since it can affect the appropriate cleaning methods. As is the case with many other DIYs, you need to do diligent research and prep work before picking up a scrub brush. – Bucket or spray bottle Cleaning Concrete: Finish the Job in 6 StepsĪs you’ll see below, the act of cleaning is just a small part of this task. – Commercial concrete cleaner or trisodium phosphate (TSP) You may not need them all-the supplies you actually end up using will depend on the cleaning approach that’s best for your situation. This is an exhaustive list of all of the supplies listed for all of the steps below. If you’re using acidic cleaning agents, make sure to wear goggles, gloves, and protective clothing. Estimated Cost: $0 to $25 Before You Beginīefore attempting to remove concrete stains, gather up all of your supplies so you have them at the ready.
