As you enter the garage, you notice those stubborn oil stains that seem to spoil the floor. They refuse to come out, despite your scrubbing hard. With time, the stains seep into the concrete, becoming a source of damage and unpleasant smells.
There are cleaning techniques that do not work all the time; some would even aggravate the stain. But take heart! In your garage floor restoration battle, you can win with the right jet washing and specialized cleaning products.
There are cleaning services available for pool areas, decks, and roofs from Outdoor Butler to maintain your cosmetic appeal. Let’s investigate the best federal oil-removal methods.
Why Is It Important to Remove Oil Stains?
Impotence in the treatment of oil stains leaves messy and slippery garage floors that pose safety hazards. Over time, oil might penetrate even deeper into the concrete, making the stains harder to remove. Last but not least, a well-maintained garage floor contributes to the overall aesthetic of your home and increases the property’s value.
Best Methods to Clean Oil Stains Off a Garage Floor
1. Absorbing Fresh Oil Stains
If you’ve just spilled oil, acting quickly is crucial. The faster you absorb the oil, the easier it is to clean.
- Use Cat Litter or Sawdust: Pour a generous amount of cat litter, sawdust, or any absorbent material over the spill. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or better results, leave it overnight. Then, sweep it up with a broom.
- Paper Towels or Rags: For small spills, blot the area with paper towels or old rags to absorb as much oil as possible.
2. Using Baking Soda or Dish Soap
If some oil residue remains after absorbing the spill, baking soda or dish soap can help lift the stain.
- Sprinkle baking soda directly onto the stain.
- Add a small amount of water to create a paste.
- Scrub the area with a stiff brush.
- Let it sit for 15-20 minutes before rinsing with water.
3. Degreaser or Commercial Cleaner
For tougher stains, using a degreaser or a specialized garage floor cleaner can be effective.
- Choose a degreaser formulated for oil and grease stains.
- Apply the cleaner as per the instructions on the label.
- Scrub the stain with a stiff-bristled brush.
- Rinse with a hose or jetwash services for a deep clean.
At Outdoor Buler, we recommend using professional jetwash services for a spotless and thoroughly cleaned garage floor. Jetwashing removes deep-seated stains, dirt, and grime efficiently.
4. Pressure Washing for Deep Cleaning
If oil stains are stubborn and cover a large area, pressure washing is the best solution.
- Rent or use a pressure washer.
- Apply a degreaser to the stain before pressure washing.
- Use a high-pressure nozzle to break down and wash away the oil.
Outdoor Buler offers deck cleaning and pool area cleaning services, which are also useful for maintaining clean and stain-free outdoor surfaces.
5. Using a Homemade Poultice for Old Stains
Even while dealing with aged oil stains, you can utilize an old poultice recipe for maximum cleaning efficiency – just be sure to thoroughly follow the steps.
- Combine baking soda with nail polish remover until it resembles a thick paste.
- Now smear this paste over the stained area and place a sheet of plastic wrap on top.
- After that, leave the poultice on for a few hours or overnight.
- Finally, pull the plastic wrap off and use a brush to scrub the area.
6. Using a Coca-Cola Trick
Believe it or not, Coca-Cola can help remove some oil stains! The acidity in soda can help break down oil.
- Pour Coca-Cola directly onto the stain.
- Let it sit for a few hours.
- Scrub with a brush before rinsing with water.
Preventing Future Oil Stains
- Applying Garage Sealers: Applying an epoxy coating to the flooring of your garage can eliminate the risk of oil seeping into the concrete.
- Maintain an Accessible Supply of Cleaning Supplies: Keep pads or kitty litter stored in the garage for easy access in case of spills.
- Consistent Cleaning: The application of roof cleaning and deck cleaning works best for maintaining your garage as it keeps your area tidy and free of clutter.
Conclusion
Oil stains on the garage floor can look ugly, but with proper techniques, including absorbent materials, degreasers, and jetwash services, oil stains can be removed and surfaces cleaned. Taking the stress out of cleaning.
Outdoor Buler offers patio area cleaning, deck cleaning, and roof washing, which will leave your other outdoor areas sparkling clean. Contact Us today!