Best 10 Cleaners and Degreasers for Concrete

Concrete is the most commonly used building material in the world. It’s durable, low-maintenance, and relatively affordable compared to other materials.

However, like any surface, concrete needs regular cleaning and maintenance to retain its appearance and integrity. This is where concrete cleaners and degreasers come in.

In this article, we will discuss the top 5 best concrete cleaners and degreasers that are essential for cleaning concrete with ease and care.

What Are Concrete Cleaners and Degreasers?

Before we jump into the top concrete cleaners and degreasers, let’s first understand what they are and how they work.

Concrete cleaners are specially formulated liquid cleaning solutions that are designed to remove dirt, stains, oil, and other contaminants from concrete surfaces. These cleaners work by breaking down the molecular structure of these substances and making them easier to lift away from the surface.

Degreasers, on the other hand, are designed specifically to remove grease and oil from concrete surfaces. They work by using powerful solvents that break down these substances and make them easier to rinse and wash away.

Why Use Concrete Cleaners and Degreasers?

As mentioned earlier, regular cleaning is crucial to maintain the appearance and integrity of your concrete surfaces. But why specifically use concrete cleaners and degreasers?

Here are some reasons:

Easier and Faster Cleaning Process

Concrete cleaners and degreasers are specially formulated with powerful ingredients that make the cleaning process much easier and faster. They help to break down the toughest stains, grease, and oil, making them easier to remove.

Prevents Damage to the Surface

Using regular household cleaners or harsh chemicals can cause damage to your concrete surface. Concrete cleaners and degreasers are specifically designed for use on concrete, ensuring that they effectively clean concrete without damaging the surface.

Increases Longevity of Concrete

Regular cleaning with concrete cleaners and degreasers can help to prevent the build-up of stains, dirt, and grime. This in turn helps to maintain the appearance and integrity of the concrete, increasing its longevity.

Removes Stains and Discoloration

Concrete surfaces are prone to staining and discoloration, especially in high-traffic areas such as sidewalks or your garage floor. Concrete cleaners and degreasers contain ingredients that effectively remove these stains and restore the original color of the concrete.

Types of Concrete Cleaners and Degreasers

When it comes to choosing the right concrete cleaner and degreaser for your needs, there are various types available on the market.

Here are some of the top 5 types to consider:

1. Acidic Cleaners

Acidic cleaners are chemical-based cleaners that use acids such as hydrochloric or phosphoric acid to dissolve grime on concrete surfaces (such as garage floors). The acids in these cleaners react with alkaline substances, creating a foaming action that helps to lift and remove the stains.

When should you use acidic cleaners?

Acidic cleaners a heavy-duty degreasers, which means they are best used for removing tough mineral deposits, paint, rust stains, or efflorescence on concrete surfaces. They are not recommended for regular cleaning, as they can potentially damage the surface if not used properly.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Highly effective in removing tough stains and grime
• Ideal for deep cleaning dirty concrete surfaces
• Can remove stains that other cleaners may not be able to

Cons:

• Can potentially damage the surface if not used properly
• Should be used with caution and protective gear since they contain harsh chemicals

2. Alkaline Cleaners

Alkaline cleaners, also known as basic cleaners, use alkaline ingredients such as sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide to break down and remove dirt, grease, and other contaminants from concrete surfaces.

When should you use alkaline cleaners?

An alkaline concrete cleaner is ideal for regularly cleaning concrete floors, especially in areas with heavy traffic or high levels of grease and oil.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Effective in removing dirt, grease stains, and other contaminants
• Safe for regular use on concrete surfaces
• Can be used on a variety of surfaces

Cons:

• May not be effective in removing tough stains or mineral deposits

3. Enzymatic Cleaners

Enzymatic cleaners contain enzymes, which are biological molecules that break down complex substances into smaller, more manageable pieces. These enzymes work by breaking down the molecular structure of organic stains, thereby making them easier to remove from concrete surfaces.

When should you use enzymatic cleaners?

Enzymatic cleaners are best used for removing organic stains on concrete surfaces, such as food or pet urine. They are not recommended for tough grime, mineral deposits, or other inorganic materials.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Safe for use around children and pets
• Environmentally friendly
• Can be used on a variety of surfaces

Cons:

• May not be effective in removing tough stains or mineral deposits
  

4. Solvent-Based Degreasers

Solvent-based degreasers work by using strong solvents to dissolve tough grease and oil molecules on concrete surfaces. The solvent molecules attach to the grease and oil particles, breaking them down into smaller pieces that can be easily rinsed away with warm water from a hose, scrub brush, or pressure washer.

When should you use solvent-based degreasers?

Solvent-based degreasers are ideal for removing heavy amounts of grease and oil on concrete surfaces, such as in driveways, garages, or industrial settings.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Highly effective in removing grease and stubborn stains
• Can be used on a variety of surfaces

Cons:

• Can be harmful if not used properly
• May leave an oily residue if not rinsed off properly

5. Bio-Based Cleaners

Bio-based cleaners use natural and biodegradable ingredients (such as citrus or soy) to break down and remove dirt, grease stains, and other contaminants from concrete surfaces. These ingredients can penetrate deep into the surface, breaking down the molecular structure of stains and grime without causing harm or damage.

When should you use bio-based cleaners?

Bio-based cleaners are ideal for regular cleaning of concrete surfaces, as they are safe and environmentally friendly. However, they may not be as effective in removing tough stains or mineral deposits.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Safe for use around children and pets
• Environmentally friendly
• Can be used on a variety of surfaces

Cons:

• May not be as effective in removing tough stains or mineral deposits

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Concrete Cleaner or Degreaser

Surface Type

Some cleaners and degreasers may be specifically formulated for certain types of surfaces, so it is important to choose one that is suitable for the type of surface you are cleaning.

Type of Stain

Consider the type of stain or grime you are trying to remove when selecting a cleaner. Tough, deep stains may require a more powerful cleaner such as an acidic cleaner, while regular surface cleaning may only require a basic alkaline cleaner.

Safety Precautions

Always follow the instructions and safety precautions on the label when using cleaners and degreasers. Some may contain harsh chemicals that can be harmful if used improperly.

Environmentally Friendly Options

If you are looking for an environmentally friendly option, consider bio-based or enzymatic cleaners.

Cost

Some cleaners may be more expensive than others, so consider your budget when making a decision. Remember, the most expensive option may not always be the most effective for your specific needs.

Availability

Some cleaners may only be available in certain regions or online, so make sure to check for availability before making a purchase.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a concrete cleaner or degreaser on all types of surfaces?

A: No, it is important to choose a cleaner that is suitable for the type of surface you are cleaning. Some cleaners may be too harsh for certain surfaces and cause damage.

Q: Are acidic cleaners safe to use?

A: Acidic cleaners should be used with caution and protective gear because they contain harsh chemicals that can potentially damage the surface of your skin if not used properly.

Q: How often should I use a concrete cleaner or degreaser?

A: This will depend on the level of traffic and dirt build-up on your concrete surface. In general, we recommend using a cleaner or degreaser every 1-3 months for regular maintenance. However, for heavily soiled areas, more frequent use may be necessary.

Q: Are bio-based cleaners as effective as chemical cleaners?

A: Bio-based cleaners may not be as effective in removing tough stains or mineral deposits, but they are generally safe, environmentally friendly options. Consider your specific cleaning needs before choosing a cleaner.

Conclusion

When it comes to cleaning and degreasing concrete surfaces, various options are available. It is important to consider factors such as surface type, type of stain or grime, safety precautions, and budget when choosing a cleaner or degreaser.

Ultimately, the best option will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Regular maintenance and proper use of cleaners and degreasers can help keep your concrete surfaces clean and pristine.

Onfloor machines have different attachments and pads that can be used specifically for different types of cleaners or degreasers, providing versatility in the cleaning process. Additionally, these machines are designed to clean large areas quickly, making them ideal for commercial or industrial use.

So if you're looking for a quicker, more efficient way to clean your concrete surfaces, investing in an Onfloor machine could be a great option.