How to Keep Your Garage Floor Looking Like New

Most garage floors are concrete, and concrete floors are quite easy to clean. They can take time to dry, depending on the size of the space and the weather, so start early!

Before you clean

The first step is to declutter the floor. Garages often seem to breed clutter, as tools or toys are not put away. Keep everything in its place, and if necessary create storage areas for toys, balls, or other items which clutter up the garage.

Once the floor is clear, start sweeping. Leaves, dirt, sand, and other debris can build up in garages. If there’s a lot of dust, consider wearing a breath mask so you don’t breathe it in. Make sure the floor is dust and debris-free before you begin cleaning.

Cleaning your garage floor

You will need:

• Garden hose
• Bucket
• Laundry detergent
• Stiff brush with a long handle (if you only have a scrubbing brush, you will have to kneel on the wet floor)

Follow these steps to keep your garage floor looking like new:

1. First spray the garage floor. Use the water on full so it’s a powerful spray. Start from the back, and spray your way towards the door.
2. Fill a bucket with 2 gallons of hot water and 1 cup of laundry detergent. Dip the stiff brush in the detergent.
3. Start scrubbing the floor with the stiff brush. You will have to scrub hard over stains. If the dirt won’t dislodge, cover it with an abrasive cleaner and continue scrubbing.
4. Get the hose again and rinse the detergent away, again starting at the back and working towards the door.
5. Sweep out any excess water with a broom.
6. Allow to dry.

Removing oil stains

Oil stains are an occupational hazard for garages. If you can, wipe them up at once. Pour kitty litter over the remains to soak it up, covering the oil stain completely. You may have to leave this overnight, and you may have to re-apply the litter. Once the oil is absorbed, sweep up the oily litter and dispose of it.

To remove set-in oil stains:

1. Sweep the stained area.
2. Completely cover the stain with powdered detergent.
3. Scrub with warm water with a stiff brush. You will have to scrub hard.
4. Wipe and allow to dry.

Concrete garage floors may develop cracks or imperfections. If so, they can be improved by adding a coating to create a durable surface.