Have you checked your garage floor lately? It can get dirty down there – fast! Garage floors accumulate a considerable amount of dirt, oil, and grease over time, so it’s important to regularly keep them clean to avoid stubborn, hardened build-up. Discover steps to keeping your garage floor clean and even sparkling on a regular basis.
How to Clean Garage Floor: Cement/Concrete Garage Floors
What You'll Need:
- Broom
- Vacuum
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- Natural disinfectant
- Pressure washer (optional)
- Lemon juice and salt
- Epoxy filler (optional)
Steps:
- Start by sweeping or vacuuming the floor to get rid of loose dirt.
- Tackle grease stains by applying a mixture of 4-parts water and 1-part white vinegar. Apply to the affected area, wait 5-10 minutes, and then thoroughly rinse with water.
- For remaining stains, apply a mixture of baking soda and water.
- Disinfect the area using a bleach-free, natural disinfectant.
- If you've got a pressure washer, blast away remaining grime and grease.
- For rust stains, apply a simple combo of lemon juice and salt.
- Fill any cracks with epoxy filler for a smooth finish.
Pro tip: Regular maintenance is key. Sweep or vacuum regularly to prevent dirt and debris from settling in.
How to Clean Epoxy-Coated or Painted Garage Floors
What You'll Need:
- Broom
- Vacuum
- Mild detergent
- White vinegar
- Natural disinfectant
- Lemon juice and salt
- Epoxy filler
Steps:
- Sweep or vacuum to get rid of loose debris.
- Use a mild detergent to get rid of grease and grime.
- Apply a mixture of 4-parts water and 1-part white vinegar to stubborn stains. Apply onto the affected area, wait 10 minutes, and then thoroughly rinse with water.
- Use a bleach-free, natural disinfectant to disinfect the floor.
- Remove rust stains by combining lemon juice and salt, and applying directly onto the affected areas.
- Avoid any cracks from deepening or growing by filling them with an epoxy filler.
Pro tip: Invest in a good-quality doormat. It'll catch dirt before it even thinks about stepping onto your pristine floor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best way to clean a garage floor?
It depends on the type of floor you have, but a good sweep, followed by targeted cleaning and maybe a bit of pressure washing for particularly dirty floors, is a solid recipe.
Why go for natural ways to clean a garage floor?
Why not, right? Natural cleaners are often gentler on the environment and your floor. Plus, you'll avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the surface and pose potential health risks for those with allergies or other sensitivities..
How do you keep a garage floor clean?
Regular maintenance is key. Sweep or vacuum, address spills promptly, and show that floor some love regularly.
Can I use bleach to clean garage floors?
While it can be effective, bleach is not the safest option. Opt for more eco-friendly or floor-safe alternatives for a kinder clean.
Can I use trisodium phosphate (TSP) or muriatic acid to clean garage floors?
Though trisodium phosphate (TSP) and muriatic acid is effective at cleaning concrete, these harsh chemicals are extremely alkaline. That means when not used with the proper safety precautions and ventilation, you run the risk of severe skin irritation and burns. It's better and safer to opt for natural, plant-powered formulas that are effective yet safe on skin.
Why go natural when cleaning garage floors?
For the love of the environment! Natural cleaners reduce your carbon footprint and keep your garage floor happy and healthy.
Garage Floor Care Tips to Keep in Mind
- Regular Sweeping: Make it a habit. Regularly sweeping or vacuuming will keep your garage floor looking spick and span.
- Prompt Spill Cleanup: Don't let spills linger. Clean them up ASAP to prevent stains and damage.
- Mind the Weather: If you live in an area with harsh winters, be mindful of salt and de-icing chemicals. They can be harsh on your garage floor.
And now, your garage floor is now ready to stay clean all year-long thanks to regular maintenance and natural, plant-powered formulas that are effective yet safe for every member of your household.
