Concrete is a popular material for indoor and outdoor flooring because it offers durability. Concrete floors are easily washable, but that does not mean you should not be careful when cleaning them. To make the cleaning easy, you’ll need some essential tools, but be careful when selecting your cleaning equipment. You don’t want to use cleaning equipment that can damage the floor.
Make Concrete Floor Cleaning Easy
Follow these steps when cleaning your concrete floor.
Step #1: Clear the Floor
Clearing means removing all the items in the area you want to clean. For outdoor cleaning, remove the potted plants, furniture, or other things, then conduct a spot test to ensure your cleaning method will not cause discoloration or damage to the concrete.
Cleaning your basement may need you to move items from one section to the other, then transfer them back to clean the other side. Moving items ensures that you won’t be cleaning around the objects or moving them constantly.
Step #2: Remove Loose Dirt and Debris
Loose particles will need sweeping or vacuuming off the concrete floor. However, be careful if the floor has mold or mildew (especially in the basement). If your floor has cracks, check for weeds. Such bases may need treatment after removing the weeds.
For vacuuming, consider using a vacuum specifically designed for concrete floors. If your home has more than one floor type, use a vacuum with a raised height. You can use such vacuums on carpeting, tiles, concrete, and other floor types. You only need to know how to adjust the height on different floors to remove debris, dust, and dirt effectively.
While height is essential, you’ll need to consider the vacuum’s suction power. Strong suction is necessary to prevent the vacuum head from pushing dust and dirt around your concrete floor. Vacuums for concrete floors have their head lowered to the bottom to reduce the distance between suction and the floor. It ensures that the vacuum collects all the dirt, dust, and debris as its head passes over the floor.
Strong suction ensures that you collect all the dirt in one pass, reducing the time needed to clean concrete floors. Vacuuming also helps to get rid of allergens that may irritate people.
Step #3: Spot Treat Stained Areas
Using liquid laundry detergent and water is the most affordable way to clean stains. Pour the detergent directly on the color, wait for a few minutes and then scrub the area using a nylon brush. Beware of using wire bristle brushes since they will scratch the floor. Use water to rinse it thoroughly, then leave it to dry.
You can use sawdust or baking soda if your floor gets stained with grease or oil. Sprinkle baking soda on the stained floor to absorb any spills. You can also make a cleaning paste by mixing baking soda with water and scrubbing it gently on the stain. Wait for about an hour before washing away the solution. Use a degreaser or follow the manufacturer’s instructions for old grease stains.
Rust Stains: You can use white vinegar to remove rust stains from concrete floors. Spray the white vinegar on the stain, then let it settle for about an hour. Use a stiff-bristle brush to scrub over the color. Be careful when cleaning to avoid producing unpleasant scratches. Consider using a concrete rust remover if this procedure doesn’t remove the stain.
Step #4: Use a Pressure Washer
A pressure washer can help you remove stubborn stains from your concrete floor. You can buy attachments locally and convert your garden hose into a pressure washer. Another option is to rent a power washer from the local hardware store. Wear safety gear before embarking on this task. For instance, wear long pants, gloves, sturdy shoes, and safety glasses.
Remember to start from the highest point, moving downwards when power washing. Start by applying a degreaser or concrete cleaner. Let it absorb the stain, then wash it off with a steady sweeping motion. Please do not keep the nozzle too close to the floor, as it may cause damage.
Different concrete floors may react differently to the power washer. Check the results by testing with a less visible spot before cleaning the entire floor. You may also need to move plants and protect windows since water pressure can damage them.
Step #5: Apply Sealant and Wax Your Concrete Floor
Sealing and applying wax to your concrete floor prevents it from appearing dull. Your foot will seem like it’s new again. It also becomes resistant to stains.
Follow the Guide and Make Concrete Floor Cleaning Easy
Using the right equipment is the key to cleaning your concrete floor efficiently. Also, follow the manufacturer’s directions as indicated on the products. Proper cleaning ensures that your concrete floor appears new. Remember to plan before starting the process to avoid starting without all the essential tools.
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