How to Clean Concrete (or Cement) in 6 Steps

Updated on 08/01/25

Concrete may be tough, but that doesn’t mean it’s maintenance-free. Over time, dirt, oil, and stains can take a toll on patios, driveways, walkways, and even basement floors. And the longer grime sits, the harder it becomes to remove. Before you know it, that once pristine-looking concrete can start looking tired.

The good news? With the right supplies and a little elbow grease, cleaning concrete is a task that most homeowners can tackle in an afternoon. Whether you’re dealing with stubborn stains or just freshening things up for curb appeal, this step-by-step guide from Mr. Handyman^® shows you how to clean concrete the smart way — without wasting time or damaging any surfaces.

What to Know Before You Clean Concrete

Before you start mixing cleaners or pressure washing your driveway, take a moment to scan and evaluate your surface. Concrete may look tough, but the wrong tools or cleaning products can cause serious damage, especially if your slab is sealed, stamped, or already cracked.

• Is it safe to pressure wash concrete? Most outdoor concrete surfaces (like driveways and patios) can handle pressure washing, as long as they’re in good condition. Look for a PSI between 2,000 and 3,000 for best results.

• What tools or chemicals are safe for sealed vs. unsealed concrete? Sealed concrete (like garage floors or finished patios) is more sensitive to harsh chemicals or stiff wire brushes. For sealed surfaces, stick to pH-neutral cleaners and soft bristles to avoid discoloration or etching.

Unsealed concrete is more forgiving. Concrete-specific degreasers and diluted vinegar are effective cleaning agents, but be sure to test a small area first.

When in doubt, test your cleaning strategy on a small section of concrete before committing to the entire area. If you’re unsure about what type of concrete you’re working with, your local Mr. Handyman team can help figure out your next steps.

Tools & Supplies You’ll Need to Clean Concrete

Before you dive into scrubbing, gathering the right tools will save you time and help you get better results. Most concrete cleaning jobs can be done with a few household items, but heavier stains might need a bit more effort.

Here’s what to have on hand before you start:

• Broom or shop vac: For clearing leaves, dust, and debris before washing
• Stiff-bristle scrub brush: Ideal for lifting grime and targeting stains
• Concrete cleaner or degreaser: Choose based on the type of stain, such as oil, rust, or mold
• Bucket or spray bottle: To dilute and apply your cleaner evenly
• Hose or pressure washer: A standard hose works fine; a washer speeds things up
• Safety gear: Gloves, goggles, and long sleeves to protect from splashes and debris

Optional, but great to have:

• Baking soda and dish soap: For mixing a DIY paste that cuts through surface stains
• White vinegar: A natural alternative for certain spot-treatments (avoid using vinegar on sealed or decorative concrete)

Handy Tip: If your concrete is sealed, skip acidic solutions and stick to pH-neutral cleaners to avoid etching the surface.

Once you’ve got your gear ready, you’re all set to start. Head to the next section for a step-by-step breakdown of how to clean cement without damaging it.

How to Clean Concrete in 6 Easy Steps

Whether you’re cleaning a concrete patio, driveway, or garage floor, here’s how to do it right, step-by-step. These techniques work for both outdoor and indoor concrete surfaces.

Step 1: Assess the Surface

Before you clean concrete, inspect it for stains, cracks, or surface damage.

• Oil, rust, or grease stains may require a specialty cleaner.
• Cracks or chipped areas should be cleaned carefully to prevent further damage.

Try this: Press a paper towel onto the stain. If it picks up residue, it’s likely fresh and will be easier to remove.

Step 2: Gather the Right Supplies

You’ll need:

• Broom or shop vac
• Stiff-bristle scrub brush
• Concrete cleaner (or DIY baking soda mix)
• Garden hose or pressure washer
• Safety gear: gloves, goggles, sleeves

For sealed concrete, avoid acidic cleaners or high-PSI washers.

Step 3: Prepare the Area

A little pre-cleaning will help maximize your efforts. Work in sections to keep concrete from drying too quickly!

• Sweep away dirt, leaves, and debris.
• Wet the surface to help the cleaner absorb.

Step 4: Apply a Concrete Cleaning Solution

Mix your cleaner per label directions. Avoid using bleach on colored, polished, or stamped concrete.

• Apply the solution using a mop, sprayer, or brush.
• Let it soak for 5–10 minutes to break down stains.

Step 5: Scrub Away the Stains

Use your scrub brush to loosen dirt and stains.

• A pressure washer (1,500–3,000 PSI) can help remove stuck-on grime. Only use if suitable for your surface.
• Repeat as needed with additional cleaner and scrubbing.

Step 6: Rinse Thoroughly and Let It Dry

Rinse the concrete until the water runs clear. Allow it to dry completely before sealing, staining, or painting. Most concrete types take 24–48 hours to fully dry after deep cleaning.

How to Clean Concrete Without a Pressure Washer

If you don’t have a pressure washer, or your concrete surface is too delicate for one, don’t worry. You can still get excellent results with a little extra elbow grease.

Step-by-Step Method for Cleaning Concrete Manually

1. Sweep the area. Remove dirt, leaves, and debris with a stiff broom.
2. Wet the surface. Use a hose or bucket to lightly soak the area.

3. Make a cleaning paste:

• ½ cup baking soda
• 1 gallon of warm water
• A squirt of dish soap
• Mix until the paste forms a spreadable consistency.
4. Apply the paste. Spread paste over the stain and let it sit for 20–30 minutes.
5. Scrub thoroughly. Use a coarse, nylon-bristle brush and scrub in circles.
6. Rinse clean. Wash away residue using a hose or clean water from a bucket.

Natural Vinegar Solution (Optional)

• Combine equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
• Apply spray to the stain and wait 5–10 minutes.
• Scrub gently and rinse clean.

Always test vinegar solutions in a hidden area first. The acidity may etch or darken some types of concrete.

When to Avoid Pressure Washing

High-pressure water isn’t always the best solution. Avoid using a pressure washer if:

• Your concrete has cracks, loose mortar, or crumbling joints
• You’re working with stamped, painted, or sealed surfaces where coatings could be damaged
• The area is indoors (such as a kitchen or basement), where overspray is risky

Comparison Chart: Pressure Washer vs. Hose-and-Scrub

Not sure if you need a pressure washer or just a bucket and some elbow grease? Here’s a quick breakdown of the pros and cons of each method to help you decide what’s best for your concrete surface:

If you’re working with stamped, painted, or delicate concrete, or just looking for some more control, manual cleaning is often the safer choice. For larger jobs or stubborn grime, a pressure washer can save you a significant amount of time and labor.

Want more DIY tips? See our comprehensive guide on cleaning a concrete driveway without a pressure washer.

How to Maintain Clean Concrete Between Washes

Keeping your concrete clean doesn’t have to be a full weekend project — it just takes a little regular upkeep. With the right maintenance, your driveway, patio, or garage floor will look better for longer, making your next deep clean much easier.

Here’s how to keep concrete clean between washes:

• Sweep often: A quick sweep once a week keeps dust, leaves, and debris from settling and causing stains, especially in high-traffic or shaded outdoor areas.
• Rinse monthly: Use a garden hose to rinse off surface grime, pollen, or pet messes before they become ingrained.
• Reseal every 2–5 years: Resealing protects concrete against stains, erosion, and freeze-thaw damage. Use a high-quality, penetrating sealer for outdoor concrete. Plan to reapply every few years, depending on traffic and weather.
• Avoid harsh chemicals and wire brushes: Skip metal-bristled brushes or acidic cleaners that can etch or discolor your surface. Stick with pH-neutral concrete cleaners and plastic scrub brushes.
• Clean spills quickly: Oil, fertilizer, grease, and food can all leave stubborn marks. The faster you clean them up, the less likely they are to stick around.

When to Hire a Pro to Clean Concrete

Concrete is tough, but some stains are tougher. If you’ve scrubbed, sprayed, and soaked to no avail, it might be time to call in a local pro you can count on.

Here’s when hiring a professional is your best bet:

• Oil stains just won’t come out: Stubborn automotive or grease stains often need commercial-grade degreasers and professional equipment to fully lift from porous concrete.
• Your concrete is cracked or crumbling: Pressure washing damaged concrete can make things worse. A professional can safely clean without causing more wear.
• The area’s just too big to DIY: A long driveway or large patio can take hours or days to clean on your own. Pros have the equipment to do it quickly and thoroughly.
• You’re planning to seal or resurface: Clean concrete is essential before applying any sealants, paint, or overlays. A pro ensures your surface is ready for long-term results.

Whether you need a spotless surface or repairs before resealing, Mr. Handyman does it all. We treat your home with respect and back every project with the Neighborly Done Right Promise^®. Request an estimate today.

Frequently Asked Questions About How to Clean Concrete

Mr. Handyman has been helping homeowners and businesses repair, maintain, and enhance their spaces for over 25 years! We are the one-stop solution for everything on your to-do list. This includes answering your questions about home repairs, maintenance, and improvements. Here are answers to some of your most frequently asked questions on how to clean cement and concrete

How often should I seal my concrete floors?

For most homes, every 2 to 5 years is ideal for sealing concrete floors. If your garage or entryway sees heavy foot traffic or vehicle use, you may want to reapply sooner. Not sure what type of sealer to use? A penetrating sealer works great outdoors, while water-based sealers are safer indoors.

What’s the right PSI to clean concrete?

Between 2,500 and 3,000 PSI is the sweet spot for cleaning concrete efficiently without damaging it. If your washer is only 1,500 PSI, it can still work — it’ll just take longer. Skip high-pressure settings if your concrete is cracked or decorative.

What’s the best way to clean a concrete patio?

The best way to clean a concrete patio involves a multi-step process. Start with a thorough sweep to remove leaves, dirt, and debris. Next, use a concrete cleaner and either scrub with a brush or spray with a pressure washer. Rinse thoroughly and let it dry completely before applying any sealants.

Can I clean concrete without a pressure washer?

Definitely. To clean concrete without a pressure washer, use a DIY paste with baking soda, water, and a squirt of dish soap, or try a vinegar-and-water spray for lighter stains (be sure to test on a small area for color consistency). Scrub thoroughly with a stiff brush and rinse well. This method is especially effective for small jobs or indoor applications, such as cleaning concrete countertops.

Is vinegar safe to use on concrete?

On unsealed, outdoor concrete, vinegar can effectively help lift stains without damaging the surface. But on sealed, polished, or colored concrete, vinegar might cause dulling or etching. If you’re unsure, test it in a hidden spot first, or play it safe with a pH-neutral concrete cleaner. If you’re not sure which to use, a home improvement professional can help.