How To Clean Stained Concrete Floors Properly

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How To Clean Stained Concrete Floors Properly

By : Amelia Taylor
Over the years, concrete has become a popular flooring option because it is considered extremely durable. However, homeowners often do not consider the cleaning aspect when investing in concrete. It is worth noting this flooring option will get dirty from time to time from particles such as dust, debris as well as sticky spills. Some types of concrete can break down more rapidly when mould or rust seeps into the surface. Moreover, they can also get stained. If you can spot stains on the flooring, it is important to deal with it immediately. Not doing so will make the concrete look old and unappealing. Fortunately, it is quite easy to care for concrete flooring with frequent cleanings. There are some straightforward methods most expert bond cleaners in Townsville use to get the best results. Here is how to clean stained concrete floors properly. Use these steps to maintain stain-free concrete floors.

Tips to Clean Concrete

It is best recommended to clean up the spills promptly to minimise surface stains. The cleaning methods can vary depending on numerous factors, such as the type of floor, finish, location, etc. The following tips are some basic guidelines for cleaning concrete:

Eliminate Loose Dirt and Debris

Experts who do budget bond cleaning Townsville recommend starting with removing loose dirt and debris. Use a vacuum cleaner to get these dust particles off the concrete. Steam mopping or dusting can also help eliminate dirt and debris.

Spot Treat Stains

Combine liquid laundry detergent and water and pour them into the stained spot. Next, use a stiff nylon brush to effectively scrub the spot. Rinse with clean water and allow the surface to dry.

Repeat if Needed

Let the surface dry completely before permitting foot traffic. If the stain remains, you might need to use a stronger solution, depending on the stain type. After the stain treatment, rinse with a garden hose or bucket.

Pressure Wash Stubborn Stains

To deal with tough outdoor concrete stains, you can use a pressure washer and detergent. Gradually increase the pressure to ensure you are not doing any damage to the floor.

Apply a Sealer

Depending on the concrete’s type, applying a sealer can help offer a protective coating to safeguard against stains, making the maintenance work easier. It is worth noting that many sealers need to be applied once every few years.

How to Eliminate Concrete Stains?

Because concrete is absorbent, stains can easily settle in and become tougher over time. This will make them extremely tough to remove. Although there is no one way to eliminate stains from concrete surfaces, the key will be using an effective and suitable cleaner. According to professionals who do the best bond cleaning Townsville, using household cleaners like laundry detergent and baking soda can offer the best results. However, testing your preferred cleaners first is essential before applying them on the floors. This way, you can ensure that you do not discolour the concrete. Here is how you deal with specific stains:

Rust Stains

Using acid-based ingredients is often considered the perfect option for eliminating rust stains from concrete. You can use natural ingredients like vinegar or lemon juice for such stains. Simply pour distilled white vinegar on the stained spot and allow it to do its work for a minimum of 30 minutes. Use a stiff brush to scrub it and follow up with rinsing.

Grease Stains

To eliminate the grease stains, sprinkle a cornstarch layer or even dry kitty litter on the affected area. Allow it to stay there for a minimum of three days so that it can absorb the oil. The process takes time since the concrete is porous and the oil goes quite deep. Vacuum the surface and repeat the process if needed.

Food and Liquid Stains

To prepare a cleaner that can deal with food and liquid stains, just mix 2 tablespoons of dishwashing liquid with about 1 litre of water. Apply the mixture using a stiff brush and scrub well. If the stain appears to be oily, apply the solution directly to the stained area and scrub. Rinse well using plain and clean water.

Dirt and Plant Leave Stains

In some cases, the dirt and plant leaves that accumulate on the concrete for an extended period might stain it. Eliminating such brown stains can seem tricky at first glance, especially if they are old. To remove them, follow these steps:
  • Sweep away the dirt and debris.
  • Combine water and dishwashing detergent in a bucket or spray bottle.
  • Apply the mixture to the affected area.
  • Allow it to sit there for about 15 minutes.
  • Use a soft brush to scrub the spot.
  • Rinse the space well and repeat the process if needed.

Mildew Stains

Cheap bond cleaners Townsville recommend wearing personal protective equipment like rubber gloves. Mix about 2 tablespoons of trisodium phosphate (TSP), 2 tablespoons of powdered laundry detergent, and 1 litre of water. Use the solution and stiff-bristled brush to scrub the affected area and rinse well. You can use a mixture of chlorine bleach and water if there are heavy mildew stains. Simply combine 1 cup of bleach per every gallon of water. Scrub the area using a stiff brush and rinse well.

Follow this checklist:

Checklist to clean concrete floor

Wrapping Up

Cleaning stained concrete floors demands equipping yourself with appropriate knowledge and putting in quite a bit of effort. But it is still possible to achieve a clean surface. Follow the steps mentioned in this article to maintain stain-free concrete floors.