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Patti asked: How do I remove Pine-Sol from interior, decorative concrete? The cleaning lady used Pine-Sol on our decorative concrete instead of just water. Now the floor has a dull, sticky film. I tried mopping with water only, but it just seems to make it grow. I have a no idea how Pine-Sol she used. I also tried water with a little bit of vinegar. It is just a smear now. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
The actual cleaning process for a decorative concrete floor depends on whether it is colored. If so, how dark or light the shade, and whether it has been protected by a stain or finish. As a result, you should use common sense with this approach, always taking the time to spot test before you begin.
You Will Need:
- Bleach
- Hot water
- Bucket
- Mop
- Stiff bristled brush
Steps to Remove the Stain:
- Fill a clean bucket with scalding hot water. The hotter the water, the more effective it will be at removing the stain.
- Add 1-2 ounces of bleach per gallon.
- Swirl the mixture with the mop, then begin working it over the floor. For tough or stubborn stains, use the stiff bristled brush to work the solution into the stain.
- A detergent such as Pine-Sol will likely form suds as it is lifted away. Rinse the mop frequently, and change the water as needed. Work until the suds are gone, or until the area is clean.
- Allow the spot to dry. Check for cleanliness, then repeat if necessary.
Additional Tips and Advice
- Bleach is prone to lightening darker floors, so it’s especially important to spot test before you use bleach unless you’re prepared to give the entire floor the same treatment.
- If your floor fails the spot test, your other option is to scrub vigorously with plain, hot water. With enough elbow grease, the stain will lift to the surface and wash away.
- If these methods fail, it’s best to contact the manufacturer of the concrete for advice or call in a professional concrete cleaning service.
I lifted old, rotten carpets and need to clean the concrete floors that are stained with old paint, Clue (used for the carpets) and other dirty stains. What can I use to clean this mess? Please help.
Your best option may be to power wash the concrete with a hose or pressure washer. You can use a paint stripper to remove the paint before power washing. For the other stains, try scrubbing the area with laundry detergent, TSP (trisodium phosphate) or a concrete cleaner. You could also try diluted white vinegar or hydrogen peroxide to lighten the stains, however if your concrete floor is polished, the acid could damage the finish.
Source: HowToCleanStuff.net – How to Clean Concrete Floors
Source: HowToCleanStuff.net – How to Remove Paint from Concrete
Source: HowToCleanStuff.net – How to Remove Nut Stains from Concrete