How to Remove an Oil Stain from Concrete

✔ Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Oil Stains from Concrete

1. 1

   Absorb Fresh Oil with Cat Litter or Baking Soda

   If the oil spill is recent, acting fast can prevent it from seeping deep into the concrete. Use an absorbent material like cat litter, baking soda, or cornstarch to soak up as much oil as possible. Sprinkle a thick layer over the stain and let it sit for 30-60 minutes. For best results, grind the material into the stain using your shoe or a stiff brush to help it absorb more deeply. Once the oil is lifted, sweep away the litter and dispose of it properly. Follow up by scrubbing the area with warm water, dish soap, and a stiff bristle brush to remove any remaining residue. This method works best for small, fresh spills before they have a chance to penetrate the concrete’s porous surface.

2. 2

   Use a Degreaser for Moderate Stains

   If the oil has been sitting for a while and has started to penetrate the surface, a commercial degreaser or concrete oil stain remover is the best solution. Choose a product designed specifically for concrete, as household cleaners may not be strong enough. Apply the degreaser liberally over the stain and let it sit for 15-30 minutes to break down the oil. After soaking, scrub the area using a stiff brush or wire brush in circular motions to lift the stain from the surface. Rinse with clean water and repeat if necessary. For driveways or garages, using a pressure washer after applying the degreaser can help remove any remaining residue. This method works well for stains that have started to set but aren’t deeply embedded.

3. 3

   Create a Poultice for Deep Stains

   When oil has soaked deep into the concrete, a poultice is the best method to draw it out. Mix baking soda and acetone (or trisodium phosphate) into a paste with the consistency of peanut butter. Apply a thick layer directly over the stain and cover it with plastic wrap, taping down the edges to prevent it from drying too quickly. Let it sit for 24 hours, then remove the plastic and scrape away the paste. The poultice will pull the oil up from the concrete pores, leaving the surface much cleaner. If needed, repeat the process. For older or particularly stubborn stains, multiple applications may be necessary. This method is highly effective for oil that has been sitting for months or years.

4. 4

   Use a Pressure Washer for Large Stained Areas

   If you’re dealing with large oil-stained areas, like a driveway or garage floor, a pressure washer is the most efficient way to clean the surface. However, oil stains won’t wash away with water alone—first, apply a degreaser or poultice as described in previous steps. Allow it to soak into the surface for at least 15-30 minutes, then rinse with a high-pressure washer at 3000+ PSI. Move the nozzle in slow, overlapping passes to evenly remove the residue. If any staining remains, repeat the degreaser process and wash again. This method is ideal for commercial spaces, large garages, or heavily stained outdoor areas, but should be used with care, as excessive pressure can erode the concrete surface.

5. 5

   Prevent Future Oil Stains with a Concrete Sealer

   Once you’ve successfully removed the oil stain, protecting the concrete from future spills is essential. Applying a high-quality concrete sealer creates a protective barrier that prevents oil and other contaminants from soaking into the surface. There are penetrating sealers for a natural finish and film-forming sealers (like acrylic or epoxy) that provide a glossy, water-resistant layer. Choose a UV-resistant, stain-repelling sealer to prolong the life of your concrete and make future cleaning much easier. Reapply the sealer every 2-5 years, depending on wear and exposure to oil. This final step is crucial for garages, workshops, and driveways where oil leaks and spills are common.