A Complete Guide

Oil stains on concrete driveways or garage floors can be frustrating, but don’t worry – they can be removed! Whether you spilled motor oil, transmission fluid, or grease, this guide will show you simple ways to clean it up. For tough stains or professional help, contact Superior Concrete Contractors, a trusted concrete service provider.

1. Understanding Oil Stains on Concrete

Why Concrete Absorbs Oil

Concrete is porous, meaning it has tiny holes that soak up liquids like oil. The longer the stain sits, the harder it is to remove.

Fresh vs. Set-In Stains

• Fresh stains (less than 24 hours) are easier to clean.
• Set-in stains (weeks or months old) need stronger methods.

2. Best Methods to Remove Oil Stains

A. Quick Fixes for Fresh Stains

Blotting with Cat Litter or Sawdust

1. Cover the stain with cat litter or sawdust.
2. Let it sit for 1-2 hours to absorb oil.
3. Sweep it up and rinse with water.

Dish Soap & Hot Water Method

1. Mix dish soap with hot water.
2. Scrub with a stiff brush.
3. Rinse thoroughly.

Baking Soda Paste

1. Make a paste with baking soda and water.
2. Scrub the stain, then rinse.

B. Tough Stain Removal Techniques

Concrete Degreasers

Products like Simple Green or Prosoco Oil & Grease Remover work well. Follow the instructions on the bottle.

Poultice Methods

1. Mix baking soda or laundry detergent with water to make a thick paste.
2. Spread over the stain and let it dry (12-24 hours).
3. Scrub off and rinse.

Microbial Cleaners (Eco-Friendly Option)

These cleaners use natural bacteria to break down oil. Great for the environment!

C. Specialty Solutions

Muriatic Acid (Use with Caution!)

⚠ Warning: Wear gloves and goggles.

1. Dilute with water (follow product instructions).
2. Apply, scrub, then rinse well.

WD-40 for Residue Removal

Spray WD-40 on leftover stains, wait 10 minutes, then wipe clean.

Ameripolish Oil Ingester (Best for Polished Concrete)

A top choice for polished floors. Available through Superior Concrete Contractors.

3. Surface-Specific Stain Removal

Concrete Driveways

• Use degreasers or a poultice for deep stains.
• For large stains, hire a concrete service for professional cleaning.

Asphalt Driveways

• Avoid harsh chemicals – use dish soap or a mild degreaser.

Brick Pavers

• Scrub gently to avoid damaging the surface.

Transmission Fluid Stains

• Treat quickly before it soaks in. Use cat litter first, then degreaser.

4. Products to Avoid

❌ Vinegar, bleach, or ammonia – can damage concrete.
❌ Pine-Sol – may discolor the surface.

5. Preventing Future Oil Stains

✔ Use a concrete sealer – helps repel oil and water.
✔ Clean spills immediately – the faster you act, the easier it is to remove.
✔ Place a drip pan under vehicles to catch leaks.

For long-lasting protection, Superior Concrete Contractors offers sealing services.

6. When to Call Professionals

If stains won’t come out or you have polished concrete, a concrete service like Superior Concrete Contractors can:

• Deep-clean stubborn stains
• Resurface damaged concrete
• Apply protective sealants

7. FAQs & Pro Tips

Does Coke Remove Oil Stains?

• Soda can help lift fresh stains, but degreasers work better.

How Long Should a Poultice Sit?

• 12-24 hours for best results.

Can Pressure Washing Remove Oil Stains?

• Sometimes, but it can spread the stain. Use degreasers first.

Final Tip:

For tough stains or large concrete driveways, professional help saves time and effort. Contact Superior Concrete Contractors for expert stain removal and maintenance!