A polished concrete floor is durable, versatile, and sleek in appearance. They have become incredibly popular among homes and businesses seeking a concrete floor that is easy to clean and maintain and carries a modern customized aesthetic. Stains and damage can occur despite its many advantages, like any type of flooring.
A stain may occur on your polished concrete, and you don’t mind it. You can’t be bothered to clean it because it’s not a big deal. While that’s okay, an unattended stain can cause permanent damage that will never come out. It’s best to deal with every stain quickly and efficiently when you see it and to not neglect to tidy up after a stain, however insignificant it is.
As unsightly as a stain is, don’t give up hope because there is a good chance it can be removed and your concrete floor can be restored. Here is how to remove stains from polished concrete floors.
Different Types of Stains On Polished Concrete Flooring
How you deal with a stain will depend on what it is. The wrong approach can damage your concrete surface further. The most common stains are oil and grease, food and beverages, paint stains, rust stains, tire marks, dye stains, acid stains, and urine stains.
The stain’s colour, texture, and location will likely tell you what kind of stain it is. From there, it’s all about choosing the right cleaning product for the polished concrete flooring.
Cleaning Products & Equipment
You may need the following products and tools to tackle a polished concrete floor stain:
Oil and grease stains
For oil and grease stains, you will need a degreaser and hot water.
Rust stains
For rust stains, an acid-based cleaner will be needed to dislodge the rust from the material.
Dye stains
For dye stains, a specialized stain remover will be needed to target dyes.
Ink stains
For ink stains, rubbing alcohol or ink remover may be needed.
Broom & vacuum cleaner
A broom or vacuum cleaner to remove dirt and debris from the floor’s surface before cleaning.
Bucket and mop
A bucket and mop to apply the cleaning solution to the floor.
Scrub brush
For deeper stains, you may need a scrub brush that is safe for your polished concrete.
Protective gear
Protective gear, such as gloves, eye protection, and a face mask. These may be necessary when dealing with the cleaning solution you are using.
Clean towels
Clean towels to wipe up excess cleaning solution and towel-dry the floor after removing the stain.
Prepare the Area and Apply the Stain Removal Solution
First, prepare the area to remove stains from a polished concrete floor. Remove any dirt from the floor. Sweep and vacuum. Then, use a mop or scrub brush to apply the cleaning solution to the floor, wearing protective gear.
For the cleaning solution to work, it may need to sit for several minutes. The instructions on the packaging will be able to advise you how much time is needed to break down a stain.
Carefully Scrub the Stain and Work on It to Fully Remove It
After the cleaning solution has had time to sit, it’s time to scrub it. Do so gently at first. You don’t want to ruin the surface of the polished concrete floor.
If your cleaning solution does not recommend scrubbing, however, don’t. Follow the instructions on the packing to ensure you do not accidentally damage your floor.
Rinse Away the Cleaning Solution and Dry the Area
After you believe the stain is handled, rinse the area with clean water and remove any excess cleaning solution from the surface. A mop or towels can be used to do this. After that, dry the floor with towels or rags.
Do so thoroughly. You won’t want water spots forming on the polished concrete, or it is a safety hazard because of the wetness left behind.
You May Need to Repeat the Process to Remove the Stain
It’s not uncommon with some stains to have to repeat. If so, fully dry the floor and restart the process. You can repeat it a few times if you like, and as long as manufacturer instructions are followed, you should not damage your floor. This is a sure way to clean and maintain polished concrete floors without fail.
Hire a Professional Polished Concrete Floor Stain Removal Expert
If you’re uncertain about removing a specific stain, do not wish to do it yourself, or would rather have a professional look it over, you can hire a professional who knows polished concrete cleaning. They are equipped with specialized tools and equipment to remove the toughest of stains with no damage to your concrete floor.
They may also be able to help restore the floor’s aesthetic afterward, bringing it back to its former glory. Contact an expert if you’re unsure what to do about a polished concrete floor stain.
