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Removing Stains from Concrete

by Sarah Tennant
(New Zealand)

To remove a fairly fresh grease/oil stain from concrete, follow these steps:

1. Spread kitty litter or sawdust over the stain and leave for a few days. This will soak up the surface grease. Gently brush kitty litter away and discard.

2. Cover the stain with dry cement (keep water well away from the area!). Again, leave for a few days. Then brush away the cement and discard--your stain should be gone!

For older grease stains, spraying the spot with oven cleaner and leaving overnight may help to dissolve and remove the stain.

Dishwashing or laundry detergent is another home remedy option for removing grease. Sprinkle the powder (crushing dishwashing tablets first if necessary) over the oil, leave to sit, and then scrub away gently with a nylon scrubbing brush. Do not use a wire brush, as this will scratch and damage the concrete, leaving a visible 'scar' after the stain is removed.