Concrete is a common material at many construction sites and in many homes. However, it stains easily when exposed to grease drips and spills from equipment. Removing grease stains quickly is important to maintain the clean appearance of concrete floors and surfaces. 

    I’ve picked up a few tips and tricks worth sharing over the years. In this guide, I outline some fast and effective methods for removing new and old grease stains from concrete.


    How to Remove Grease Stains from a Concrete Driveway

    Fresh grease stains on concrete driveways can often be removed with some basic household products. 

    Here are a few steps to follow:

    1. Start by blotting excess grease with paper towels or rags. Avoid aggressive scrubbing, which can drive the stain deeper into the concrete.
    2. Next, apply a liberal amount of dish soap, laundry detergent, or degreasing cleaner to the stain. 
    3. Allow it to soak for 30 minutes, which gives the detergent time to break down the grease. 
    4. Follow up by scrubbing the stain with a stiff nylon bristle brush and hot water. The bristles provide light abrasion to lift grease from the concrete pores. 
    5. Rinse thoroughly with hot water after scrubbing. 
    6. Repeat as needed until the stained area matches the clean concrete around it.

    This simple process usually lifts fresh grease stains. However, older or larger stains (like rust stains or battery acid stains) often require a more heavy-duty cleaner formulated specifically for concrete.

    Does your concrete show signs of fungus and bacteria? If so, check out our guide to removing mold from concrete.


    How to Remove Old Grease Stains from Concrete

    Grease stains that have set on concrete can be difficult to remove. The grease penetrates the concrete’s porous surface, making it harder to lift out. Fortunately, commercial concrete cleaners provide the extra punch needed for these challenging stains.

    Today’s Homeowner Tips

    Look for concrete degreaser products labeled for removing oil and grease. These cleaners contain powerful active ingredients, like alkaline salts, solvents, and surfactants. Unlike regular dish soap, they work quickly to dissolve and emulsify stubborn stains.

    Once you have a product formulated to get grease stains out of concrete, follow these steps:

    1. Before application, sweep or blow away any dirt or debris from the stained area.
    2. Use a hose or pressure washer to pre-wet the concrete to prevent the cleaner from drying out too fast. 
    3. Apply a generous amount of degreaser and leave it for 10–20 minutes. Reapply if it starts to dry during this time.
    4. Use a stiff-bristle broom or deck brush to scrub the paste. The abrasion helps release the stain from the concrete. 
    5. Rinse thoroughly with a pressure washer or hose to remove all cleaner residue. Inspect the concrete‌ — ‌you may need to repeat the process for tough stains. 
    6. Once the concrete appears clean, allow it to dry fully before applying any protective sealers.

    Concrete cleaners provide the cleaning boost older grease stains need. Just be sure you follow the product instructions closely, as some formulas etch concrete if left to dwell too long. Proper rinsing is also key to avoiding residue.

    Looking for a greener way to lift rust stains from concrete? Check out our guide on natural ways to remove rust from concrete.


    Tips for Grease Stain Removal from Concrete

    Now that you know my main approaches for how to get grease stains out of concrete, here are some additional tips for making the grease stain removal process faster and easier:

    • Act quickly to treat fresh stains before they have time to penetrate the concrete deeply. The longer a stain sets, the harder it will be to remove.
    • When using commercial degreasers, select a concrete-safe formula to avoid etching or discoloration. Look for brands labeled specifically for concrete.
    • Never apply degreasers to extremely hot concrete under direct sunlight. Wait for it to cool to prevent the cleaner from drying out too fast.
    • Rinse degreasers thoroughly with a pressure washer set to under 2000 psi. Avoid more powerful pressure washers that can damage concrete.
    • Wear proper protective gear like gloves, goggles, and boots when working with chemical cleaners. Avoid skin and eye contact.
    • Properly contain and dispose of used degreaser, rinse water, and cleaning materials. Don’t allow it to drain into the ground untreated.
    • For heavy staining, call a professional concrete cleaning company for the best results. Their equipment and experience make stain removal easier.

    Acting quickly and using the proper concrete degreasing products will allow you to effectively remove grease stains from concrete surfaces. With a bit of elbow grease and the right products, you can easily keep your concrete looking clean.

    Now that your concrete is clean, why not check out our list of creative ways to cover it and prevent future staining?


    So, Is Removing Grease Stains from Concrete Difficult?

    Grease stains on concrete can look unsightly, but they don’t have to be permanent eyesores. With the right cleaning methods and products, fresh and old grease stains come out of concrete relatively easily. The key is using the appropriate techniques based on stain age and severity. For fresh stains, basic household detergents provide an effective first line of defense. 

    Degreasing concrete cleaners offer added power for older, set-in stains. While grease can certainly penetrate and discolor concrete to some degree, most stains can be substantially lightened or removed with the right approach. Acting quickly when stains occur and using the strongest cleaner suitable for the application will provide the best results.

    Grease stain removal does require some work, as well as proper safety precautions when using chemical cleaners. But with a little time and effort, you can successfully return concrete surfaces to their former unstained state. So while grease stains are never desirable, they don’t need to be a permanent headache with the right products and cleaning methods.

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    FAQs About Grease Stain Removal from Concrete

    What is the fastest way to remove new grease stains from concrete?

    For new stains, quickly blotting with rags and applying dish soap or detergent can help lift grease before it has time to soak in deeply. Scrubbing with hot water after 30 minutes can remove many fresh stains.


    What kind of cleaner is best for old, set-in grease stains?

    Specialty concrete degreasers are the most effective choice for older, stubborn grease stains. Look for alkaline-based cleaners specifically made to break down oil and grease from concrete.


    Can I use a pressure washer to clean grease stains off concrete?

    Yes, but use caution. Pressure washers under 2000 psi can help rinse away grease and cleaner residue. Higher psi models can‌ damage concrete surfaces.


    What should I do if a degreaser doesn't fully remove a stain?

    Reapply the degreaser and allow a longer dwell time, while keeping the concrete damp. For really stubborn stains, call a professional concrete cleaning service for assistance and stronger cleaning solutions.


    Are there ways to make fresh concrete more resistant to grease stains?

    Yes, applying concrete sealers or coatings will make the surface less porous and reduce oil/grease penetration. However, even treated concrete can stain, so quick cleanup is still important.


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    Jordan Tyler Quinn Farkas

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    Jordan Tyler Quinn Farkas is a globetrotting content writer hailing from the USA. With a passion for pest control, he brings a unique perspective to his writing from his early years working for one of the largest pest control companies in America. Throughout his early 20s, Jordan gained valuable experience and knowledge in the field, tackling pest infestations head-on and ensuring the well-being of countless homes.

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    Casey Daniel

    Casey Daniel is a writer and editor with a passion for empowering readers to improve their homes and their lives. She has written and reviewed content across multiple topics, including home improvement, lawn and garden care, sustainability, and health and wellness. When she’s not reviewing articles, Casey is usually playing board games, repainting her bathroom, or quilting.

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