Grease stains are a common problem on concrete surfaces. They can be stubborn and quite challenging to remove. But with the appropriate method and some elbow grease, you can get rid of them for good.
The experts at Epoxy Power by BMI are here to share the most effective ways to remove grease stains. We’ve chosen easy-to-find items that will work on various concrete surfaces.
1. Baking Soda
Materials:
- Baking soda
- Dish soap
- Brush
Baking soda can serve as an absorbent and cleanser when it comes to grease stains. It’s a common household item that can work on multiple surfaces, making it a versatile solution.
Thickly apply some soda to the stained area and let it sit for about 30 minutes. Then, wet your brush with water and soap solution and scrub the stain in a circular motion. Rinse with clean water and repeat as necessary.
2. Vinegar Mixture
Materials:
- Two tablespoons of white vinegar
- 1/2 cup washing soda
- 1/4 teaspoon dishwasher detergent
- Two cups of water
- Sawdust
- Bucket
- Scrub brush
Do you have some white vinegar in your kitchen cabinet? The acidity in vinegar helps remove grease stains.
First, apply some sawdust and let it absorb as much grease as possible.
Mix the vinegar, washing soda, and dishwasher detergent in a bucket of water. Apply the cleaner to the stain and brush it thoroughly. Rinse the area with water and repeat the process until the stain is gone.
3. Soda Pop + Kitty Litter Method
Materials:
- Three cans of cola
- Cat litter
- One cup of powdered laundry detergent
- One cup of chlorine bleach
- One gallon of hot water
- Stiff brush
- Garden hose
- Bucket
- Gloves, goggles, and other protective gear
You might think this method is a little strange, but it’s quite effective. The combination of cola, cat litter, and laundry detergent will break down the grease and lift the stain.
Apply some kitty litter over the area and grind it using the bottom of your shoes (we recommend using old footwear for this). Then, sweep away the debris and dispose of it properly.
Next, douse the area with the cola and brush it around with the stiff brush. Let the soda sit for 20 minutes, applying more every once in a while to prevent it from drying out. If successful, you should see a grayish surface when you rinse off the soda with a garden hose.
Finally, wear your protective gear and mix detergent, bleach, and hot water in a bucket. Brush the solution over the area until the stain disappears. Finally, rinse everything with clean water.
4. Trisodium Phosphate (TSP) Solution
Materials:
- One cup of TSP
- One gallon of water
- Sawdust
- Rubber gloves
- Eye protection
- Large bucket
TSP works as an effective degreaser and stain remover. You should schedule your cleaning with care, as this process can take overnight to work. If you’re treating an outdoor surface, you should also ensure the forecast is clear of rain.
Dissolve the TSP in the water and add enough sawdust until it becomes paste-like in consistency. Apply the mixture to the grease stain and let it sit overnight, then sweep it up the next morning. Repeat the process as necessary.
5. Acetone Cleaner
Materials:
- Acetone
- Baking soda
- Tape
- Plastic wrap
Acetone is a strong solvent found in nail polish removers and paint thinners. It’s effective in breaking down grease, but you should take caution when using it.
Mix acetone and baking soda into a paste, apply it to the stain and cover with plastic wrap. Tape the edges of the plastic down so that the mixture doesn’t seep out. Let it sit for a day, remove the wrap, and let the mixture air dry.
Once dried, sweep away the mixture and dispose of it properly. Rinse the area with clean water to remove any residue.
Invest in Quality Coatings to Protect Your Concrete Surfaces
Keeping your concrete surfaces clean isn’t always easy, but it’s necessary to maintain a polished look. One way to protect your concrete from unsightly grease stains is to coat it with a layer of epoxy or polyurethane. This coating will create a barrier between the concrete and any spills, making cleanup much easier.
As a leading concrete coating contractor in Los Angeles, CA, Epoxy Power by BMI can help you choose the right coating for your property. We offer high-quality products that help us remove grease stains and keep your concrete surfaces looking like new. Call us today at (818) 835-8000 for a free quote!
