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The Spruce / Kristin Kempa
Unsightly stains can ruin the appearance of concrete surfaces—whether it’s your porch, backyard, or patio area. Or you may just be looking to prep your area before sealing or give your concrete floors new shine.
“Over time, concrete can crack, weeds may start to grow, and surfaces may sink,” says David Steckel, Thumbtack’s Home Expert. “That's when you'll want to consider resurfacing your concrete, which involves, cleaning, repairing, and sealing the area.” Plus, there are a variety of concrete cleaners to tackle all types of stains, including common ones, such as oil spills, rust, mold, and mildew.
Don't let a few annoying stains ruin your relaxing oasis. We researched the best concrete cleaners on the market, taking a look at products based on their type, formula, cleaning time, application method, and overall effectiveness. So, grab a mop or a brush, and let's start cleaning!
Best Overall
Zep Neutral pH Floor Cleaner Concentrate
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Amazon
Up to 128 gallons of cleaning solution
Applicable on varied surfaces, including marble, granite, vinyl, and stone
Restores shine without stripping
No rinsing
May leave behind a sticky residue
Not suitable for wood or unsealed concrete floors
If you have sealed concrete floors, Zep Neutral pH Floor Cleaner is an excellent choice. Thanks to its neutral pH formula, it preserves the floor’s polish without stripping its protective coating. Zep also improves the overall appearance of floors by restoring their shine. It’s also safe to use on other types of indoor and outdoor flooring, including marble, granite, vinyl, and stone.
This concentrated formula can make up to 128 gallons of solution, providing plenty of cleaning power at an affordable price. In lieu of a traditional string mop, the manufacturer recommends applying the cleaner with a microfiber mop to improve maneuverability. Zep doesn’t require any rinsing, which is a nice convenience, but it may leave behind a sticky residue. If this happens, you can easily mop the floor with water as a final clean. Just be sure to also wear rubber gloves during the process, as a precaution.
Please note that this product should not be used on wood or unsealed concrete floors. Doing so can result in damage. When it comes to cleaning multiple surfaces, Zep isn’t as versatile as other options, but it's a stellar performer on sealed concrete floors.
Price at time of publish: $20
Cleaner Type: pH neutral cleaner | Formula: Liquid | Cleaning Time: Immediate
Best Budget
Krud Kutter Concrete Clean & Etch
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Amazon
Prepares concrete for staining or sealing
Removes dirt, oil, grease, mildew, and algae
Biodegradable formula
Takes some elbow grease to apply
May cause spots and discoloration
Krud Kutter contains a unique additive known as "Oil Grabber," which penetrates the surface and dissolves tough stains. This versatile formula can be used to remove grease, oil, mildew, algae, and more. It can also be used on a variety of surfaces, including driveways, patios, sidewalks, basement, and garage floors.
We think this is also a great product to use before coating, staining, or sealing concrete surfaces. Its phosphoric acid base effectively etches concrete and promotes adhesion. Biodegradable and water-based, the formula is safe to use around surrounding plants and grass. Just note, we read a handful of reports that say Krud Kutter may cause white spots and discoloration. Be sure to test an area first, if this is a concern.
Krud Kutter comes in a concentrated formula that needs to be diluted before use. The application process will take some elbow grease. The solution should be worked into the surface using a stiff bristled broom until it stops foaming, then rinsed off three times with a hose. Allow the surface to thoroughly dry before applying a stain or sealant. Expect this cleaner to be affordably priced. One 32-ounce bottle can clean up to 200 square feet!
Price at time of publish: $12
Cleaner Type: Water-based | Formula: Liquid | Cleaning Time: Immediate
Best Alkaline
Sunnyside 64216 TSP All Purpose Cleaner
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Amazon
Heavy-duty stain remover
Prepares concrete surfaces for painting
Can make hundreds of gallons of cleaning solution
Limited to indoor cleaning
Can cause skin irritation and burns
First off, you should know Sunnyside TSP contains trisodium phosphate, a powerful alkaline cleaner that can tackle the toughest stains on concrete. This product is ideal for basements, garage floors, and other contained areas. However, the high phosphate content may be dangerous if it enters outdoor water sources. Sunnyside TSP does an excellent job of removing grease and paint, so it's a great choice for prepping surfaces before painting.
This powdered formula is concentrated, and needs to be mixed with a gallon of hot water before use. When working with this product, it’s best to wear protective gear, such as gloves and a mask, because TSP can cause skin irritation and burns. You’ll see the best results after scrubbing with a bristle brush, which means it will likely take some elbow grease to apply.
Price at time of publish: $16
Cleaner Type: Alkaline | Formula: Liquid | Cleaning Time: Immediate
Best for Pressure Washers
Simple Green Oxy Solve Total Outdoor Cleaner Pressure Washer Concentrate
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Amazon
Biodegradable formula
EPA Safer Choice certified
Safe to use on most outdoor surfaces
Won't harm lawns, plants, pets, wildlife, or waterways
May not be suitable for vinyl siding
Some say the scent is strong
This pressure washer concentrate uses the power of peroxide to lift dirt and grime, as well as stains from mold, mildew, moss, and algae. It’s ideal for cleaning a variety of surfaces, including concrete, wood, wicker, fabric, stone, brick, and asphalt. Oxy Solve’s biodegradable formula meets the standards of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Safer Choice program, which means it’s safe to use around plants, pets, wildlife, and waterways.
You’ll likely get the best results by using Oxy Solve with a pressure washer. The manufacturer recommends applying it at a low pressure setting, letting it sit for three to five minutes, and rinsing it off at high pressure. You can also apply the product by hand with a soft-bristle brush or sponge. While Oxy Solve effectively cleans many outdoor surfaces, some say it doesn't work on vinyl siding. Just know that it produces a strong smell, so be sure to work in a well-ventilated space and have a mask and gloves handy.
Price at time of publish: $24
Cleaner Type: Peroxide | Formula: Liquid | Cleaning Time: 3 to 5 minutes
Best Degreasing
Oil Eater Original Cleaner Degreaser
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Amazon
Highly effective on grease stains
Biodegradable, noncorrosive formula
Suitable for many surfaces
Can be used as light-, medium-, and heavy-duty degreaser
Mixed reviews on oil stain removal
Must be diluted before use
This powerful cleaner is formulated to dissolve tough grease and oil on most surfaces, and it works exceptionally well on concrete. Oil Eater is suitable for home and commercial use, and it’s USDA-approved for use at food service facilities. This formula contains no harsh solvents, and it is noncorrosive and biodegradable. In addition to eradicating grease on concrete, it can be used to clean patios, driveways, grills, boat hulls, tires, and many other surfaces.
Because Oil Eater is ultra-concentrated, it will need to be diluted before use. Depending on the ratio of water, it can be used as light, medium, or heavy-duty degreaser. (Refer to the dilution chart on the label to determine the appropriate amount.) This product can be applied with a brush, broom, or pressure washer. Once you’ve worked the cleaner into the stained surface, let it sit for five minutes and then thoroughly rinse it off with a hose. While it removes grease stains almost immediately, it may have more difficulty removing oil stains.
Price at time of publish: $13
Cleaner Type: Water-based | Formula: Liquid | Cleaning Time: Immediate
Best for Rust
Iron-Out Outdoor Rust Stain Remover
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Amazon
Heavy-duty rust remover
Works on many outdoor surfaces
Safe for use around lawns and plants
Can be tank sprayer, cloth, or roller
Must be rinsed off
May leave white spots behind
This liquid formula from Iron OUT is highly effective at removing rust stains from outdoor surfaces. Despite being a professional grade rust remover, it can be easily applied with a tank sprayer, cloth, or roller. Because the solution is pre-mixed, it doesn’t need to be diluted, and we love how it dissolves stains almost instantly without scrubbing. Once it’s applied, however, the instructions say to rinse it off immediately. (You should wear gloves as you are working, too.)
Iron OUT is a highly versatile formula that can be used on a variety of outdoor surfaces, including exterior walls, sidewalks, driveways, fences, and decks. Because it's also safe to use around plants and grass, accidental overspray won’t cause any harm. It’s important to note that this product may have a bleaching effect. It may leave white spots behind, particularly on concrete surfaces, so be sure to test first.
Price at time of publish: $16
Cleaner Type: Contains water, fluorosilicic acid, and oxalic acid dihydrate | Formula: Liquid | Cleaning Time: Immediate
Best All Purpose
Whip-It All Natural Enzyme Cleaner Stain Fighting Kit
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Amazon
Has over 500 uses
Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
Plant-based, biodegradable formula
Makes up to 128 gallons of cleaning solution
Expensive
Mixed performance on fabric and carpet
If you’re looking for a versatile cleaner that can handle all types of messes, Amazing Whip-It Miracle Cleaner is a solid bet. According to the manufacturer, this product has over 500 uses, allowing you to clean concrete, carpet, and machinery. This plant-based, biodegradable formula is safe for most surfaces, and it contains enzymes which lift stains almost immediately.
Whip-It is significantly pricier than most of our other picks, but you definitely get your money’s worth. One 32-ounce bottle of concentrate makes up to 128 gallons of cleaning solution. Plus, by diluting the formula, you can customize the cleaner’s strength to suit your needs. To top it all off, you can clean almost every surface and a variety of items inside your home and out! Whip-It may fall short when it comes to fabric and carpet stains, but it works wonders on most hard surfaces.
Price at time of publish: $30
Cleaner Type: Enzyme | Formula: Liquid | Cleaning Time: Immediate
Best Eco-Friendly
ACT Concrete Cleaner
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Amazon
Natural, eco-friendly formula
Suitable for a variety of outdoor surfaces
Easy to apply
Won't remove paint
Takes longer to work
Pricey
While the majority of concrete cleaners are chemical-based, ACT offers an environmentally friendly formula that’s safe to use around children, animals, and plants. Using a process known as bioremediation, this product contains microbes that naturally break down and effectively eliminate stains. ACT Concrete Cleaner can be used on a variety of surfaces, including cement driveways, patios, and decks. We love that it won’t remove paint.
This powder formula can be easily applied with a broom. One pound will cover approximately 100 square feet. All you need to do is work it into the stained surface, mist the applied product with a spray bottle, and let it sit. There is no need to sweep or wash it off afterwards. The only drawback is that it takes two to four weeks to completely remove stubborn stains. However, misting and adding more cleaner can speed up the process. ACT Concrete Cleaner is significantly pricer than other options, but is an eco-friendly option.
Price at time of publish: $45
Cleaner Type: Enzyme | Formula: Powder | Cleaning Time: 2 to 4 weeks
Best for Mold and Mildew
RMR-86 Instant Mold and Mildew Stain Remover
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Amazon
Fast-acting formula
Kills mold and mildew on contact
Suitable for a variety of indoor and outdoor surfaces
Should not be used on metals
Harmful to plants
This instant spray cleaner is no match for stubborn mold and mildew stains. It contains a blend of pure sodium hypochlorite, which acts fast and penetrates deeply, removing embedded stains well below the surface. According to the manufacturer, it only takes 15 seconds to break apart stains. Plus, this powerful cleaner kills mold and mildew on contact.
RMR-86 is a ready-to-use spray formula that is easy to apply and doesn’t require any scrubbing. It can be used on a variety of household surfaces, including decks, wood, vinyl siding, brick walls, and bathroom tiles. It should not come in contact with metals because it can cause corrosion. This product is also harmful to plants, so be sure to cover any surrounding vegetation before spraying.
Price at time of publish: $16
Cleaner Type: Sodium hypochlorite | Formula: Liquid | Cleaning Time: 15 seconds
Best pH-Neutral
OdoBan No Rinse Neutral pH Floor Cleaner
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Amazon
Safe to use around children and pets
Suitable for many types of hard floors
Affordably priced/makes up to 128 gallons of cleaning solution, No-rinse formula
Must be diluted before use
May leave floors feeling sticky
Free from harsh chemicals, OdoBan No Rinse Neutral pH Floor Cleaner uses naturally derived ingredients to clean hard floors. It is suitable for concrete, as well as a variety of other flooring, including sealed hardwood, laminate, vinyl, marble, and stone. It can even be used on toilets, sinks, countertops, and glass. What’s more, it has a pleasant citrus scent and leaves behind a streak-free finish.
Just note that this concentrated solution needs to be mixed with water before it’s applied. One gallon makes up to 128 gallons of cleaning solution, It works with all types of wet floor mops and automatic scrubbers. Not only is it safe to use around pets, but it’s also highly effective at eliminating pet odors. While the no-rinse is certainly a convenience, it may leave behind a sticky residue—a common complaint with pH neutral cleaners in general.
Price at time of publish: $11
Cleaner Type: pH neutral cleaner | Formula: Liquid | Cleaning Time: Immediate
Zep Neutral pH Floor Cleaner earns our top spot because it requires no rinsing afterwards. Plus, a little bit of this tough cleaning solution goes a long way—one gallon makes up to 128 gallons of cleaning solution. Krud Kutter Concrete Clean and Etch is a budget-friendly option that effectively dissolves tough stains, though it requires some elbow grease and triple rinsing. It’s also a good choice to prep concrete surfaces for staining or sealing.
What to Look for in a Concrete Cleaner
Stain Type
Mold, moss, and algae, which are caused by living organisms, are considered biological stains. They are often recognizable by their green, streaky appearance or fuzzy growth. Our top choice for mold and mildew, RMR-86 Instant Mold and Mildew Stain Remover, comes in an easy-to-use spray formula and kills all of these culprits on contact.
Other types of stains are caused by manmade products, such as motor oil, paints, cleaners, and solvents. When spilled, these products tend to penetrate the concrete’s porous surface and cause unsightly spots and discoloration. You should choose a cleaner based on the specific stain that you’d like to remove.
Type of Cleaner
Neutral pH neutral cleaners are ideal for cleaning sealed concrete surfaces free from embedded dirt and deep stains. They can also be used on unsealed indoor or outdoor concrete surfaces that only require a mild cleaning.
Alkaline concrete cleaners have powerful degreasing capabilities. They work best on petroleum-based stains such as oil, grease, soot, and tar. Our top pick for an alkaline concrete cleaner, Sunnyside 64216 TSP All Purpose Cleaner, is recommended for indoor surfaces and works quickly to remove tough stains.
Acid concrete cleaners are made with phosphoric acid or hydrochloric acid, which cause a chemical reaction that lifts stains.These cleaners work particularly well on efflorescence, hard water stains, and mineral salt buildup. Because concrete contains lime, which is alkaline, you must neutralize concrete surfaces after using an acid cleaner.
Enzyme cleaners use active enzymes to break down stains and, in some cases, digest them. These cleaners contain genetically modified bacteria that eat away at grease and oil. Enzyme cleaners won’t deliver immediate results. Be aware that some take weeks to fully eliminate stains.
Formula and Ingredients
Concrete cleaners are available in either liquid or dry formulas. Some products are ready-to-use, while others need to be diluted with water beforehand. Biodegradable formulas are safe to use around people and pets, and they won’t harm the surrounding environment (plants, streams, wildlife, etc.) Our top choice for pressure washers, Simple Green Oxy Solve Total Outdoor Pressure Washer Cleaner, is certified by the Environmental Protection Agency’s Safer Choice Program.
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How often should you clean concrete?
“Knowing how frequently you should clean concrete floors is very dependent on how trafficked the area is and how the space is utilized, but usually, concrete should be cleaned roughly once a year,” says David Steckel, Thumbtack’s Home Expert. If the concrete area is well-maintained in-between washings, Steckel says you might be able to get away with doing a deep clean every two to three years instead.
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How do you clean concrete safely?
When using a concrete cleaner, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure your safety. Many products can be harmful if they are ingested, inhaled, or come into contact with skin. You should wear personal protective equipment if required to avoid accidental exposure and injuries. Products should also be disposed of properly, rather than released into the environment. Always read the instructions for the tools and products you are using. “While using a pressure washer will help you gain the best cleaning results, it’s important to know how to properly use the equipment so that you don’t injure yourself, others around you, and your home,” says Steckel.
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Should you seal concrete after cleaning it?
Steckel recommends sealing concrete after it’s been cleaned. “Because unsealed concrete is porous, it readily absorbs liquids, leading to unsightly stains and freeze-and-thaw cycle damage,” he explains. For this reason, it’s important to seal concrete that will be exposed to spills and inclement weather. “The best option for garage floors and other high-traffic areas is epoxy, which forms a hard and extremely durable surface on top of concrete,” he says. Alternatively, he suggests using acrylic-resin sealers and reactive penetrating sealers on outdoor surfaces because they repel water and salt.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was researched and written by Sage McHugh, a home and lifestyle writer for The Spruce. For this roundup, McHugh considered dozens of products, carefully evaluating their type, formula, cleaning time, application method, and overall effectiveness. McHugh also took hundreds of customer reviews and write-ups from third-party websites into account. For expert insight on concrete cleaners, she interviewed David Steckel, Thumbtack’s Home Expert.