When you have a concrete floor it is important to know how to clean the floor properly. Standard concrete floors are super easy to clean. When you only need to remove a small amount of dust, you can use a vacuum cleaner. Sweep up large dirt particles and debris with a sturdy synthetic broom. In either case, follow with a high-pressure wash with your garden hose.
One of the ideal ways to clean is with mild ingredients that won’t scratch or damage concrete:
First, you should clean the concrete floor with white vinegar and dishwashing soap, after that you should sweep the concrete floor with a broom of sturdy edras. Mix the following ingredients: 2 teaspoons of dishwashing soap, 1 cup of white vinegar, and 1 gallon of warm water in a bucket.
Then dip a sponge in the bucket, squeeze the sponge and clean the unsealed concrete. The dish soap will remove the residue, while the vinegar disinfects it and removes the odor. Allow the floor to air dry naturally. Once dry, sprinkle baking soda on any stains and rub with a nylon brush. Baking soda removes the stain without damaging the concrete. Finally, the area should be washed to collect the baking soda.
On the other hand, if the floor presents a particular problem, such as oil and grease stains, it is best to cover it with a generous layer of cat litter or sawdust. This will soak the oil if you do it quickly. Leave it for several hours or overnight, and then take it out. Sprinkle the remaining mark with an alkaline degreaser, heavy-duty detergent, or powdered dishwashing detergent. Rub well and rinse with boiling water.
Rust can be removed with a mild acid such as lemon juice or white vinegar. More persistent stains may require treatment with trisodium phosphate (TSP) or oxalic acid. Mix any of these powders in water (not the other way around as this can cause an explosive action), then apply it to the oxidized patch.
On the other hand, to do a deep cleaning job like a professional, rent a pressure hose and use the right tip for your concrete, and don’t direct the pressure spray in one place for too long, as its powerful abrasive action can engrave the surface of the concrete. Be sure to protect gypsum panels and electrical outlets.
It is important to know that exterior concrete floors should be sealed every 1 to 3 years to protect them from the effects of weather and daily wear. Sealing reduces staining, maintains the attractive appearance of the concrete and extends its life.