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How to Remove Oil Stains From Aggregate Concrete

Jess Jones

Like most homeowners, you probably take a lot of pride in your home, both inside and out. If you frequently park your car or other vehicle in your driveway, chances are you have some unsightly stains on your aggregate concrete.

Because aggregate concrete is stronger than ordinary concrete, many people use this material when redoing their driveways. However, just because it's strong doesn't mean it's stain-resistant. If you have an oil stain situation and don't want to pay a professional to remove it, try these simple steps to save a few dollars.

Tip

Remove the oil stains as soon as possible after they occur. Stains that are left for weeks or months are much more difficult to treat.

  1. Sprinkle the stained area liberally with kitty litter. Grind the litter into the concrete with your shoe. Leave for several hours.

  2. Sweep up the kitty litter using a broom and dust pan, and put in your trash bag.

  3. Sprinkle the area with powdered laundry detergent. Leave for several hours.

  4. Sweep up most of the detergent, but leave a thin layer. Use your hose on a light spray setting to wet the area.

  5. Scrub the area vigorously with a hard-bristled scrub brush. Rinse, and let it air dry to see if the stains are gone.

  6. Apply more powdered laundry detergent if the stains are still visible. Cover the area with newspaper, and leave it overnight. Scrub the stain, and rinse.

The Drip Cap

  • Like most homeowners, you probably take a lot of pride in your home, both inside and out.
  • Sprinkle the stained area liberally with kitty litter.
  • Sweep up most of the detergent, but leave a thin layer.
  • Scrub the area vigorously with a hard-bristled scrub brush.