Discover how to clean, maintain, and protect your concrete with expert tips for removing stains, mold, and grime from any concrete surface.
Cleaning concrete isn’t one-size-fits-all. From gentle green cleaners to powerhouse pressure washers, there are many ways to scrub up your slabs.
TL;DR
This guide covers all the major cleaning methods, surfaces, and types of stains so you can make your concrete look great again.
In This Article
Why Cleaning Concrete Matters
Concrete is porous, which means it traps dirt, oil, mildew, and more. Over time, this grime builds up and makes your concrete look worn and discolored.
Not only does proper cleaning boost curb appeal, it is also an important step to to prep for sealing, which helps your concrete last longer.
How to Clean Outdoor Concrete
Driveways, Patios and Walkways
Outdoor slabs take the brunt of the elements, and everything your tires, feet, and planters drag in. Here’s how to clean them without damaging the surface:
- Pressure washer + concrete detergent (optional) = great for general grime
- Pretreat stains if you're dealing with oil, tire marks, rust spots, or any other tough stain
- Remove patio furniture or rugs before cleaning to avoid “shadow stains”
Related Resource: How to Clean Your Concrete Driveway [Step-by-Step]
Related Resource: How to Clean Your Concrete Patio Like a Pro
Power Washing vs. Pressure Washing
Power washing uses hot water and is best for cleaning tough stains and oil
Pressure washing uses cold water and is great for general dirt, and less aggressive
Related Resource: Power Washing vs. Pressure Washing – Which is Better?
Pro Tip: Don’t have a pressure washer? You can still clean concrete by hand with a scrub brush, hose, and the right cleaner.
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Find out how much safe, beautiful concrete will cost you with a free onsite estimate from an A-1 franchise near you.
How to Clean Indoor Concrete Floors
Whether you’ve got a modern polished finish or sealed basement slab, indoor concrete needs gentler care:
- Sweep regularly to prevent grit from scratching the surface.
- Use a soft microfiber mop and gentle pH-neutral cleaner (avoid vinegar, bleach, or ammonia) to mop the surface
- Clean spills as soon as possible after they happen to avoid them being absorbed into the concrete’s pores.
Related Resource: How To Clean Concrete Floors
How Much Does Professional Concrete Cleaning Cost?
While DIY might sound tempting, sometimes it’s worth calling in the pros, especially if you’re looking for a deep, even clean.
At A-1 Concrete Leveling, professional concrete cleaning typically costs around $0.55–$0.60 per square foot. For example, a 1,600-square-foot surface might run around $950 to clean. Costs can vary depending on:
- Accessibility of the area
- Stain severity
- Regional pricing differences
- Whether you bundle it with services like sealing or caulking
Related Resource: Concrete Cleaning Cost Guide
Removing Common Concrete Stains
The sooner you address a concrete stain, the easier it is to remove. But even old marks can be handled with the right technique:
Mold and Mildew
Mold and mildew love shady, damp areas. These stains aren’t just ugly, they can be slippery and dangerous too.
- Use a mix of bleach + water or a mold-specific cleaner
- Scrub thoroughly and rinse, don’t just spray and walk away
- Seal concrete after drying to prevent return growth
Oil
Oil is easily abosrbed into the pores of your concrete driveway or garage, like a sponge.
- Absorb fresh spills with kitty litter or baking soda
- Follow up with dish soap or a commercial degreaser and scrub with a stiff brush
- Rinse and repeat as needed
Rust
Rust stains form on concrete surfaces when patio furniture, garden tools, grills, or other metal objects are left out during humid weather.
- Use acidic cleaners, vinegar, or lemon juice
- Let sit, scrub, rinse
Pro Tip: Avoid using undiluted vinegar or acidic cleaners on sealed concrete and always do a test a patch in an inconspicuous area first.
Organic Stains
Organic stains from pet urine, grease from the barbecue, and general musty odors can be broken down with enzymatic cleaners.
Request a Free Estimate
Find out how much safe, beautiful concrete will cost you with a free onsite estimate from an A-1 franchise near you.
Common Concrete Cleaning Agents
Vinegar
Vinegar is a non-toxic option for minor rust, mold, and mildew stains or general cleaning. It’s a pantry staple and easy to find, but as an acid, it may damage sealed concrete if not diluted properly or rinsed quickly.
Muriatic Acid
Muriatic acid is a last-resort chemical used for the most stubborn stains like efflorescence, heavy rust, paint, or oil. It is a strong acid that can cause injury and requires extreme caution.
Enzymatic Cleaners
Pet accidents? Food spills? Compost drips? Enzymatic cleaners are designed to break down organic matter at the source, no harsh chemicals required.
Concrete Detergent
Concentrated concrete cleaner is specifically formulated for removing different types of stains from porous concrete and can be found at most big-box stores.
Maintaining Your Concrete
Once your concrete is clean, help keep it that way! Seal it regularly, caulk joints and cracks, and control drainage to prevent settling slabs.
Concrete sealing not only repels water and stains but also makes future cleanings easier.
Related Reading:
Professional Concrete Cleaning Services
Now that you’ve got the inside scoop on all things concrete cleaning, you can tackle whatever mess Mother Nature (or your family) throws at your slabs.
Want expert help? A-1 offers professional concrete cleaning, sealing, and caulking services to keep your surfaces looking spotless for years to come.
Concrete Cleaning FAQ
What is the best to use to clean concrete?
For general grime, a pressure washer does a good job of cleaning concrete, and can be boosted with a concrete detergent. For tough stains, spot treating with degreaser, enzymatic cleaner, or rust remover, depending on the stain, can help.
Does vinegar clean dirty concrete?
Vinegar helps remove rust, mold, and mildew stains from concrete but can damage sealed concrete if not diluted or rinsed quickly. Always do a spot test before applying in noticeable areas.
What to put on concrete before pressure washing?
Spot treating stains before pressure washing concrete can help leave your concrete with an even finish. Try dish soap and water, baking soda and lemon juice, or a concrete-specific detergent, depending on the type of stain.
Request a Free Estimate
Find out how much safe, beautiful concrete will cost you with a free onsite estimate from an A-1 franchise near you.
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