Table of Contents

• Why Oil Stains Are Difficult to Remove From Concrete
• What You’ll Need to Remove an Oil Stain
• Step 1: Absorb Fresh Oil Spills
• Step 2: Apply a Degreaser or Cleaning Solution
• Step 3: Scrub the Stain
• Step 4: Rinse the Driveway
• Step 5: Use a Pressure Washer for Stubborn Stains
• When to Hire a Professional Pressure Washing Company
• Trust Multiman Services to Remove Oil Stains 

Oil stains are common on concrete driveways — whether you accidentally knock over a container of motor oil or your car leaks mysterious fluid, it happens to everyone at some point. The problem is that oil stains are notoriously hard to clean, especially if they’ve been sitting for weeks or months. In order to effectively remove these stains without damaging the concrete, you need the right cleaning methods. 

If you’re dealing with a stubborn oil stain on your concrete driveway, keep reading to learn why these stains are often so difficult to remove, tips for cleaning them, what to do if it won’t lift, the role of a professional pressure washing company, and more. 

Why Oil Stains Are Difficult to Remove From Concrete

First, let’s go over why oil stains are so difficult to remove from concrete. The biggest reason is that concrete is porous, which means that when you spill oil on it, it gets absorbed into the concrete. The longer you wait to clean it, the deeper the oil travels, spreading below the surface of the concrete. This means that simply rinsing the driveway with a garden hose often isn’t enough — you need more powerful solutions. 

What You’ll Need to Remove an Oil Stain

Here’s what you’ll need to remove an oil stain from your concrete: 

• An absorbent material such as cat litter, sawdust, or baking soda
• A stiff-bristled brush
• Concrete-safe degreaser or dish soap
• Water
• Gloves and other basic protective equipment
• A pressure washer, if appropriate for the concrete surface

Step 1: Absorb Fresh Oil Spills

If the oil spill is fresh, the first thing you need to do is cover the affected area with an absorbent material. The quicker you act, the easier it will be to clean, since the oil won’t have as long to sink into the concrete. Once the oil has been absorbed, sweep up the material and dispose of it properly. 

Don’t immediately spray a fresh oil spill with a pressure washer — this can spread the oil and make the problem worse. 

Step 2: Apply a Degreaser or Cleaning Solution

Choose a degreaser or cleaning solution designed to break down grease and oil and apply it according to the manufacturer’s directions. Give it enough time to penetrate the stain. Avoid mixing different cleaning chemicals, as this can be dangerous. 

Step 3: Scrub the Stain

Next, scrub the stain using a stiff-bristle brush, working the cleaner into the concrete. This agitation helps loosen the oil trapped in the concrete’s pores. 

Step 4: Rinse the Driveway

After scrubbing, rinse the area thoroughly with clean water. Most areas prohibit soapy, oily water from being directed into storm drains. If this is the case, make sure you dispose of it properly according to local guidelines. 

Step 5: Use a Pressure Washer for Stubborn Stains

If the oil stain still isn’t completely gone, pressure washing can help remove the remaining residue. However, it’s important to use an appropriate pressure level and nozzle for concrete. Start with a lower pressure and increase only when necessary, and make sure you keep the stream moving rather than concentrating pressure in one spot. Excessive pressure and improper techniques can cause surface damage or etching.

When to Hire a Professional Pressure Washing Company

Older, deeply embedded stains may require multiple treatments, professional-grade degreasers, or specialized cleaning techniques. Even if you address the spill right away, you still may not be able to completely remove it by yourself. 

It may be time to seek help from a professional pressure washing company if: 

• The stain is old, large, or deeply embedded
• Multiple DIY treatments haven’t worked
• You don’t have the equipment needed
• Your driveway has extensive grease, dirt, or other buildup in addition to oil

Professional pressure washers have access to commercial-grade degreasers, know the right techniques to use to avoid damaging the concrete, and can provide a more thorough and consistent cleaning. 

Trust Multiman Services to Remove Oil Stains 

As soon as you notice an oil stain on your concrete, don’t wait for it to get worse — contact Multiman Services right away. We’ll be there as soon as possible to address the stain and restore your driveway. With our professional equipment and expertise, we can take care of even the toughest oil stains, dirt buildup, tire tracks, and more. When we’re done with it, your driveway will be cleaner and more attractive than ever before!