Whether it’s the driveway, sidewalk, patio, or pool deck, concrete is a magnet for dirt, grease, and grime. That’s why you need to have a powerful concrete cleaner by your side.
Our list of the best concrete cleaners features several options chosen by our team that are easy to use and perfect for regular cleanings and tough stains. The concrete cleaner from OxiClean, a well-known brand, gains the top spot on our list as it is powerful, chemical-free, and safe to use.
Our Top Picks for Concrete Cleaners
- Concrete Cleaners: A Buying Guide
- People Also Asked
- What type of concrete do I need to clean?
- Is there a concrete cleaner that is safe to use on colored or stained concrete?
- What is the most effective way to clean concrete?
- How long does it take for a concrete cleaner to work?
- Are there any special tools or equipment needed for using a concrete cleaner?
- Does the strength of concrete cleaner vary depending on the type of dirt or debris being removed?
- Is there a difference between a physical and chemical cleaner for concrete surfaces?
- Can I use a pressure washer to clean my concrete surface?
- How often should I use a concrete cleaner?
- Related Articles
The Best Concrete Cleaners
Best Overall
OxiClean’s Multi-Purpose Concentrated Cleaner is an all-purpose product ideal for cleaning outdoor surfaces such as driveways, patios and garages. Mix this bottle of cleaner with a gallon of water to make enough concentrated cleaner for up to 4,000 square feet. The multipurpose cleaner can be used on a variety of surfaces such as cement, brick, and vinyl.
This powerful cleaner is eco-friendly as it does not contain any harsh chemicals such as chlorine bleach, ammonia, or phosphates. Furthermore, it has a light fragrance derived from renewable resources to add a calming effect to your freshly-cleaned home.
OxiClean will solve those tough outdoor cleaning jobs that require a more robust cleaning agent. Its proprietary surfactants and probiotics offer superior cleaning power and its oxygen-based technology effectively removes stains and grease.
The OxiClean concrete cleaner is our top pick because of the effortlessness with which it cleans concrete surfaces and because of how much space it can clean with just one bottle.
Pros
- Superb cleaning power
- Contains no harmful chemicals
- Safe around pets and plants
- Easy to mix and apply
Cons
- May fare well against battery acid stains
Best for Regular Use
Black Diamond’s concrete cleaner is an excellent choice for all your surface cleaning needs. Its natural ingredients are derived from renewable plant-based sources and are safe for use around pets, children,and the environment. Plus, they leave behind a fresh scent perfect for your newly-clean home.
This product’s superb versatility sets it apart; it cleans and protects limestone, travertine, marble, slate, natural stone and polished concrete. Simply mix 4 ounces of this product with a gallon of water to get the job done. If you have extensive cleaning needs, simply multiply this combination as needed to make enough cleaner for all your grimy surfaces. Thanks to the no-rinse formula, you just need to apply this once and your surfaces will be good to go! Plus, regular use of this cleaner will make your stone surfaces vivid and clear, emphasizing their natural beauty and enhancing your home to look the finest it can.
Pros
- Suitable for a variety of hard surfaces
- Regular use keeps surfaces beautiful
- No-rinse formula for added convenience
Cons
- May require repeated applications for difficult stains
Most Efficient for Deep Stains
The Concrete Cleaner Terminator-HSD is an eco-friendly product that effectively removes oil and grease stains from concrete, asphalt, pavement, driveways, streets, garages and parking lots. It is easy to use for large stains because it requires no scrubbing and no additional chemicals; simply spread it over your targeted stains and sprinkle with a little water and watch as they fade over time.Terminator-HSD breaks down the oil into harmless byproducts of carbon dioxide and water, making it great for deep oil stains and other lingering grime.
This product is an excellent choice for those looking for an effective and environmentally friendly way to remove oil stains from hard surfaces. After spreading this product, expect your stains to disappear in four to six weeks. Weekly re-applications of water also help expedite this process – cleaning deep stains has never been easier. One carton contains enough product to clean up to 400 square feet, making it an economical choice for cleaning large areas.
Pros
- Effective for dissolving oil on concrete surfaces
- Requires no scrubbing to eliminate stains
- Eco-friendly, with no harmful chemicals
Cons
- Not effective in colder temperatures
Great With Pressure Washers
Simple Green’s Oxy Solve Concrete Cleaner is an effective, powerful cleaner ideal for outdoor surfaces. It eliminates tough oil stains, rust stains, grease, automotive fluids, tire marks, exhaust buildup and more with the power of peroxide. The peroxide content helps lift grime without harsh abrasive cleaners, great for preparing surfaces prior to painting or staining so they can better absorb sealers and other treatments.
This concrete cleaner cleans a variety of surfaces including concrete, asphalt, brick, stone or other masonry surfaces. It is easy to use and works quickly to break down tough dirt and grime. Simply mix it with water then apply to your dirty surfaces. After it sits for five minutes, rinse with a pressure washer for a perfect clean. The product is unscented, great for people who are more sensitive to smells
Pros
- No scent for those with sensitivities
- Deep cleans almost all outdoor surfaces
- Long-lasting results
Cons
- Requires a pressure cleaner
Most Versatile
CHOMP!’s powerful and versatile Concrete Oil Stain Remover provides an effective solution for removing oil and grease stains from concrete and other porous surfaces. This product is simple and safe for use in residential and commercial spaces because it doesn’t contain any potentially hazardous materials such as bleach or acid.
The formula utilizes poultice technology to clean the widest possible array of concrete surfaces under the widest number of conditions. This makes it especially useful for tackling challenging stains from transmission fluid, brake fluid and the like wherever they may appear. The formula is easy to use: just pour a small amount over an oil or petroleum-based stain, allow it to dry and then brush away the chalk-like residue.
As one of the industry’s most powerful oil stain lifting formulas, Chomp!’s concrete cleaner makes for a great addition to any cleaning supplies cabinet.
Pros
- Extremely effective at removing oil stains
- Affordable price compared to other products
- Easy to apply with minimal scrubbing
Cons
- Takes up to 3 days to work
Concrete Cleaners: A Buying Guide
Whether you’re spring cleaning or cleaning any other time of the year, you want to make sure all your outdoor surfaces are nice and clear. Tough surfaces like concrete require an equally tough specialty cleaner. To help you pick out a concrete cleaner, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide! Read up on our tips below so you can shop with confidence next time you seek out a cleaner!
Important Tips To Narrow Down the Right Concrete Cleaner
Ingredients
Some cleaners are made from harsh chemicals that can harm plants and animals in the area, so we urge you to look for natural, biodegradable ingredients that are safe for your home and the environment. Look for products that have minimal environmental impact and reduce landfill waste. Opt for products that have been independently tested and certified as safe for human use to avoid any potential health risks associated with harsh cleaning chemicals.
Surface compatibility
Many products are designed specifically for use on concrete, but they may not be suitable for other types of surfaces. Product labels should list the compatible surfaces, so make sure to double-check before making a purchase.
Ease of use
Consider how easy the product is to use before buying it. Read up on product reviews or watch videos demonstrating how to apply the cleaner properly. Look for a product with simple instructions that don’t require any extra tools or equipment beyond what you already own.
Quality of results
Determine whether the cleaner delivers effective results by looking up customer reviews or asking people who have used it before. Check if it can remove stubborn stains without damaging the surface or leaving behind streaks or residue.
Availability of refills and accessories
Consider whether the product comes with refill packs to save money in the long run. Also, check whether accessories such as spray bottles or extension poles are available; these could come in handy when performing deep cleanings on hard-to-reach areas such as porches and walls.
Fragrance options
If you prefer a hint of fragrance during your cleaning experience, check if your cleaner will leave any freshening scents behind. While some people simply enjoy scented cleansers, others may want a fragrance-free option to avoid triggering allergies or respiratory problems in themselves or their family members.
Versatility
Some concrete cleaners are strong enough to clean multiple types of surfaces beyond just concrete, like stone, tile, wood, etc. This could come in handy if you need something that can clean multiple surfaces around your home quickly and effectively with just one product. Also, some cleaners are designed specifically for wet surfaces while others work best on dry surfaces. Make sure that any product you purchase fits all the needs you intend for it to ensure maximum efficiency as you clean your home.
People Also Asked
What type of concrete do I need to clean?
Concrete cleaners are designed for all types of concrete surfaces, including stamped, stained, colored, polished, natural, and dyed concrete.
Is there a concrete cleaner that is safe to use on colored or stained concrete?
Yes, there are concrete cleaners specifically designed for cleaning stained or colored concrete. These cleaners are typically milder and do not contain harsh chemicals that could damage the stained or colored surface.
What is the most effective way to clean concrete?
The most effective way to clean concrete is to use a combination of scrubbing and pressure washing in tandem with a specialized cleaner. This will loosen any dirt or debris from the surface and remove it effectively with minimal effort.
How long does it take for a concrete cleaner to work?
This depends on the type of cleaner used and the severity of the dirt or debris being removed. Cleaners can remove stains in anywhere from five minutes to several weeks, based on their type.
Are there any special tools or equipment needed for using a concrete cleaner?
Yes, depending on the type of cleaner used, you may need special tools or equipment such as scrubbing brushes, pressure washers, mops, and buckets. Some cleaners may require additional protective gear such as gloves and safety glasses.
Does the strength of concrete cleaner vary depending on the type of dirt or debris being removed?
Yes, the strength of the cleaner may vary depending on the type of dirt or debris being removed from the surface. For example, if oil-based substances are present, you may need a stronger cleaner than if only dust or dirt is present.
Is there a difference between a physical and chemical cleaner for concrete surfaces?
Yes. Physical cleaners involve using physical force such as scrubbing or pressure washing the surface, while chemical cleaners involve using chemicals to break down dirt and debris molecules to help remove them from the surface more effectively.
Can I use a pressure washer to clean my concrete surface?
Yes, you can use a pressure washer to clean your concrete surface but you should be careful not to use too much pressure as this can cause damage over time. It is best to read the instructions that come with your pressure washer before using it on your concrete surface.
How often should I use a concrete cleaner?
That depends on how often your concrete surface is exposed to dirt and debris. If your concrete is exposed to dirt and debris frequently, then it should be cleaned regularly such as once every three months or so depending on usage patterns.
