How to Clean Oil From a Concrete Driveway

The thought of cleaning oil stains from a driveway is often followed by feelings of apprehension and concern. This, however, does not need to be the case. Oil stains caused by a leaky car or engine can be removed with a few different home remedy applications. While it is best and easiest to attack a recent stain quickly, older and tougher stains can still be removed with some patience and elbow grease.

Clean Old Oil Stains

Step 1

Apply a thick layer of liquid laundry detergent to the oil stain. Cover the entire stain liberally with the detergent.

Step 2

Create a lather of detergent and water. Apply approximately 1/4 cup of water to the detergent and mix with the brush to create a lather.

Step 3

Scrub the stain vigorously with the brush. Use short, circular movements of the brush to work out the oil stain.

Step 4

Rinse the stain using a garden hose. Repeat the process if necessary to completely remove the stain and detergent.

Clean Fresh Oil Stains

Step 1

Immediately cover the new oil stain with a thick layer of kitty litter.

Step 2

Work the kitty litter into the stain with a broom. Slowly sweep the oil-kitty litter mixture into a pile and dispose.

Step 3

Apply a powdered laundry detergent to the stain. Add 1/4 cup of water, and mix with the brush to create a paste.

Step 4

Scrub vigorously with the brush. Continue scrubbing with circular movements to remove the stain.

Step 5

Rinse the area with a garden hose to clear away the powdered detergent and water paste.