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How To Clean Stained Concrete Patio

Preparing Your Concrete For Cleaning

How to clean a stained concrete patio

Before the concrete cleaning process starts, check to see if you have the following items:

  • Broom
  • Gloves
  • Cat litter

Depending on the size of the stain and how much of your concrete surface needs cleaning, you may not need everything on this list. If there is no excess liquid on the concrete surface and youre just doing a standard cleaning, sweep the area of any loose debris before using the cleaning methods below.

If there is standing liquid on your concrete pour cat litter over the liquid and allow it to soak up the excess liquid for about 30 minutes. If you dont have cat litter, baking soda will also help to absorb the extra moisture.

Once the liquid has been soaked up, and the litter or baking soda has been swept up and disposed of, then your concrete is ready to be cleaned.


All of the methods below will require a scrub brush to remove a stain. Be sure NOT to use a metallic scrub brush because these brushes can leave behind metal bits that will rust and stain your concrete.

Use Trisodium Phosphate To Clean Concrete Patio

If you are looking for a heavy-duty cleaner for your concrete patio, you should take TSP into your consideration.

TSP, also known as trisodium phosphate, is renowned for being a strong cleaner. It is odorless and colorless. Besides, it does not contain any bleach nor ammonia.

How to clean concrete patio without pressure washer, but using TSP, instead?

Trisodium phosphate comes in the form of dry powder. Therefore, you have to mix ½ cup of TSP with 2 gallons of hot water in a few minutes until you get a mostly clear solution. It will be slightly cloudy, though.


Bear in mind that TSP is toxic. For this reason, you will need to wear insulated gloves, long sleeves, and an eye shield. You may also use plastic sheeting to cover other areas.

Once you get the cleaning solution, soak a sponge in it and squeeze the excess water from it. Make sure it is rather damp and begin to clean the stain from the bottom upward.

You need to move it in broad strokes for a better result. Repeat the steps several times. If the stains do not come off, you can try applying TSP with a nylon-bristled scrub brush.

To avoid any white spots on the surface of your concrete patio, try rinsing the cleaned area using warm water. Use a new sponge and a new bucket to do it.

Those were the steps on how to clean concrete patio without pressure washer.


How To Clean Concrete Driveway With Bleach

Commercial cleaners are effective in getting rid of stains and dirt on your patio. However, they can cause other serious issues related to your health.

Fortunately, there are some alternatives related to household cleaners that are safer for you and the environment. One of them is bleach.

Cleaning concrete with bleach is not a new thing. It is even famous for being an environmentally friendly multipurpose cleaner. So, how to clean concrete patio without pressure washer?

Since your concrete patio sits in your backyard all the time, it is prone to dampness. Thus, you may find mildew stains in some areas. If you are facing this issue, go grab bleach to remove them.

You can use oxygen-based bleach to remove the mildew stains. However, this type of bleach will not be able to kill the spores. If you want to eradicate both the spores and stains, you should use chlorine bleach.


Here is how to clean concrete patio without pressure washer.

Tools:

  • Garden hose

Step 1:

After wearing the eye protective gear, make the cleaning solution by mixing one part chlorine bleach and two parts water. Do not forget to cover the lawn and nearby shrubs because it may be harmful to them.

Step 2:

Place the solution in a spray bottle and apply it onto the mildew-stained areas. Leave it that way for approximately 30 minutes.

Step 3:

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Can You Pressure Wash A Slate Patio

Yes, you can use a pressure washer on a slate patio on a low setting, as it may damage some natural stone.


However, if you want to remove dirt from the surface of the patio without using a pressure washer, you can use a steam cleaner, which uses hot water and high pressure to cleanse surfaces.

Using a steam cleaner on a slate patio will soften mud and leave it on the surface of the patio, which will attract dirt and dust.

Steam cleaners work best on natural stones such as slate. They do not use chemicals, so there is no need to rinse off surfaces after cleaning them.

Pressure washing a slate patio with hot water and chemicals changes the chemical balance in the stone and can cause damage or discoloration to the stones.

How To Keep Your Patio & Driveway Looking Good

How to Clean Concrete Patio without Pressure Washer ...

Just because concrete is low maintenance doesnt mean its no maintenance. These simple tips will help keep your driveway and walkways looking great.


When it comes to outdoor surfaces, concrete is pretty low-maintenance. Still, despite its tough-as-nails exterior, concrete is porous and easily absorbs liquids, which can stain over time. The surface texture also provides plenty of nooks and crannies for dirt, moss spores, and other materials to gain a foothold. Dont let it! Keep your concrete driveway, patio, and walkways looking their best by following these simple tips for cleaning concrete.

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Water Stains Mold And Mildew

Cleaning concrete floors in a basement that is has a mold or mildew problem is different from cleaning a concrete patio with the same issue. If you have a mold or mildew problem on your basement floor, do not sweep the areayoull end up spreading mold spores around the basement, causing a much bigger problem.

Open any windows and allow fresh air to circulate while cleaning. Spray the problem area with a solution of mold-killing detergent and water , scrub the area with a brush, and rinse with a clean wet mop.

Once the area is completely dry, examine it to determine if you need to repeat the process.


To remove water, mold, or mildew stains from concrete patios and driveways, use a hose or pressure washer. If stains persist, mix a solution of one-quarter bleach to one gallon of hot water and scrub the area with a brush, watering down nearby foliage first to prevent damage from runoff. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.

Mix And Apply Your Cleaning Agent

Prepare your cleaning agent according to the measurements we have provided. If you have opted for the Rust-Oleum Cleaner and Degreaser, mix this according to the directions on the packaging.

If your goal is to remove spot stains with the Clorox toilet bowl cleaner, coat the stain directly in the cleaner for this step. Alternatively, you can also opt to apply the laundry detergent directly rather than diluting it in water if you prefer.

Once your cleaning agent is ready, fill it into your bucket or pump sprayer and heavily dowse your concrete patio in the mixture. Be realistic with your application. It is unlikely you will scrub a giant patio in one session, so be sure to apply in sections as you clean.

Since concrete is such a porous material, this might take significant amounts of your cleaning agent, so keep this in mind when youre choosing your cleaning agent, particularly if you need the most cost-effective choice.

Be sure that the concrete has completely absorbed the cleaning agent, and there is still a significant layer of liquid laying on top of the surface.

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Clear The Patio And Mix Cleaner

After you have removed everything from the patio, mix a solution of one part chlorine bleach to two parts water in a plastic bucket or spray bottle. You will need to protect the lawn and shrubbery from the solution with old towels or plastic sheeting. The bleach will burn and possibly kill greenery. Always wear old clothes to prevent bleach spotting and protective eyewear for safety.

How To Remove Simple Stains From Outdoor Concrete Floors

How to Re-Seal a Stained Concrete Patio

Despite your best efforts, you may still wind up with staining on your concrete floor. Because concrete is porous, it can soak up moisture and dirt and become stained as a result. How can you clean and remove staining from outdoor concrete?

One way you can remove stains from outdoor concrete flooring is by using dish detergent, ammonia, bleach or another commercial cleaning solution. Be sure never to mix ammonia and bleach together as a cleaning solution. When using harsh cleaning products, always exercise caution and avoid mixing, as the effects can be dangerous or toxic.

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How To Clean Concrete Patio

During my research, I learned that people go to extremes to try and get their concrete patio cleanincluding using acid to wash the surface. Thats a little hardcore for me, especially as a mama with a baby around and someone who wants to keep their grass alive.

So, I turned to what I had on hand, which was Tide Oxi. Its a laundry product that removes stains from clothing, so I thought it might work on concrete as well. It seemed weird, but why not? I decided to give it a shotand it actually worked! No acid needed.

Oil And Grease Removal Instructions

  • Grab paper towels and mop up the excess liquid.
  • Make sure to dispose of them safely.
  • From here, you have several options.

  • Scrub with some dish soap and water using a old towel or nylon scrub brush.
  • Blot up the excess liquid, as its not the best thing in the world to rinse it elsewhere.
  • Another strategy that works well is using kitty litter to soak up the liquid.

  • Cover the area with kitty litter and grind it in wearing old shoes.
  • Sweep up the kitty litter and rinse the area.
  • If this does not work, you may try spraying a generous amount of WD-40 over the stain.
  • Blot up and make sure to rinse the liquid off of the area.
  • If the WD-40 also does not work, you can try spraying a generous amount of oven cleaner on your grease stain.
  • Let sit 5-10 minutes and use a high-pressure hose to rinse off.
  • Repeat, if necessary.
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    Did We Answer All Your Questions About Cleaning Stained Concrete Floors With Vinegar

    In this post, we looked at the amazingly simple way of cleaning stained concrete floors with vinegar.Many cleaning products can strip the wax you put on your floor. Many may also compromise the sealer that was put on after the stain. Vinegar, an incredibly versatile product, makes a great all-natural way to keep your stained concrete floors looking great.

    If you want a budget-friendly, natural, organic, non-toxic, and environment-friendly cleaning product for concrete floors, vinegar is undoubtedly the cleaner you need.

    About the co-author of this post:

    Anthony loves to improve his home surroundings with little home improvement projects from time to time.

    He shares his tips and experience in managing garage, home, and improvements to your health at Equipment Area.

    Want to write for Middle Class Dad too? Check out everything you need to know on my Guest Blog Page.

    And if you are from the state of Georgia and interested to have your concrete stained by a professional, Concrete Contractor Atlanta is more than willing to serve you.

    Use Carbonated Drinks To Clean Concrete Patio

    Clean Staining Concrete Patio : Home Ideas Collection ...

    Did you know that carbonated drinks could be superb on how to clean concrete patio without pressure washer?

    Although doctors say that soda is bad for your health, apparently it can be an excellent cleaner for your concrete patio. It happens because those beverages contain acidity.

    So, how to clean concrete patio without pressure washer, but you use soda, instead? It is easy.

    All you need to do is just grabbing your favorite soda, preferably the one containing citric acid. Spill that beverage over the stain, and then leave it for half an hour. After that, scrub and wash it.

    Now, you know some effective ways on how to clean concrete patio without pressure washer. They are environmentally friendly and more importantly relatively cheap.

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    How To Clean A Slate Patio

    This post may contain affiliate links. If you click an affiliate link and make a purchase, I may earn a commission. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

    A slate patio is an attractive and durable addition to any home. Slate is a natural product, so it may require some cleaning and resealing from time to time in order to maintain its appearance.

    Slate can be cleaned with very few chemicals and with just a little patience and know-how, you will have your slate patio looking like new again in no time.

    How Do You Make Homemade Pet Stain And Odor Remover

    Fully mix one-part hydrogen peroxide and one-part Dawn dish soap in a spray bottle. Spray the affected area with the mixture. Let the solution sit on the stain for one minute. Begin scrubbing, making sure to work bristle brushes deep into the carpet or rug to remove any waste that had previously soaked into the fibers.

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    Choosing The Right Hue Of The Concrete Stain

    There are hundreds of concrete acid stains and water-based stains out there. But you want to go with eco-friendly options that are safe for your plants and pets as well, considering that you might be living on this property already. Youll find that choosing this kind of stain gives you more control and you wont have to worry about damaging plants and risking pets and family.

    You must also identify the right color of concrete stain. It would help if you have prior information about the previous installation just in case you want a similar hue. Armed with this information, you only go and pick the right color from a local store. If you want to create patterns on your patio, figure out the color scheme first to create attractive installations.

    You should test a few stain color options on a hidden area to ensure you use the color that meets your expectations. Select a color that will mask any present marks and one that blends well with the existing concrete stain. Take note that staining only improves the existing colors of your patio concrete and isnt like paint that will cover whats on the floor.

    For Annual Maintenance And General Cleaning

    How to Acid Stain Concrete | DIY Acid Stained Concrete Patio

    For easy cleaning, use Scotts® Outdoor Cleaner Plus OxiClean Concentrate to break up dirt and stains caused by moss, mold, mildew, and algae. Its also safe to use around plants, grass, and fabrics.

    • Mix and apply according to label directions. Determine the best water-to-cleaner ratio based on the amount of dirt and staining on the concrete. Apply the solution to the surface and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes. Be sure to keep the concrete wet during this time.
    • Scrub the surface clean. Use a natural bristle or plastic scrub brush, as metal brushes can shed tiny fibers that work into the porous surface, eventually forming rust spots. A deck brush is an ideal concrete scrubbing tool because it lets you scrub while standing.
    • Use a power washer for large areas. If you have a large driveway or patio to clean, a pressure washer will make the job much easier . Unlike many other outdoor cleaners, Scotts® Outdoor Cleaner Plus OxiClean Concentrate can be used in power washers. Be sure to follow the directions on the label.
    • Rinse the surface. Spraying off the surface after scrubbing will wash away dirt and foam, leaving it nice and clean.

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    General Maintenance Of Concrete Floors

    Concrete floors should be cleaned at least once a year to keep them in tip-top shape. Before starting, remove any items from the areaif its an outdoor patio, remove all potted plants, furniture, and decorative items. Do a spot test by testing your cleaner in an inconspicuous area to ensure your method will not cause any additional discoloration or damage to your concrete.

    To clean a concrete floor in your basement, you may need to do it in sections by moving everything from one side of the room to the other, and then switching back to finish the job.

    Inspect your floors for cracks or chips and make any necessary repairs before beginning the cleaning process.

    How Often To Clean Your Patio Or Outdoor Surface

    The frequency of cleaning will depend on how much mold, mildew, or moss there is and how often it comes back. Applications may need to be repeated for especially moldy areas. Other times, this could be done once a year for a spring cleaning every season. Remember, it will be worth the effort when guests come over and there will be no embarrassment from the unsightly mold.

    The Spruce / Sydney Brown

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    Does Dog Pee Ruin Concrete

    Concrete is actually porous like a sponge. If liquid is allowed to sit for a period of time, it will absorb most anything. This is why its hard to get stains out of concrete. When urine is introduced to concrete and allowed to dry, the uric acid crystals present in urine bond tightly to the concrete.

    For All Types Of Cleaning

    Clean Staining Concrete Patio : Home Ideas Collection ...

    Create a cleaning schedule. Plan an annual cleaning for the driveway and twice-yearly scrubs for the patio. Daily-use walkways that see a lot of foot traffic may need to be cleaned every three months. Choose an overcast day. The cleaning solution you use will evaporate more slowly when the sun isnt beating down on it. Its also a good idea to clean concrete early in the day, before the sun warms the surface.

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