How to Remove an Oil Stain From Concrete: Effective Methods and Professional Solutions

Removing an Oil Stain from Concrete: Why You Should Act Quickly

A routine oil change in your garage, a small leak under your vehicle, or a container left open… and suddenly there’s an oil stain on your concrete floor.
If the stain is fresh, removing it is usually straightforward. Once it has set in, it becomes harder to treat and may require professional help.

Concrete is strong and durable, making it ideal for garage floors. However, it is also porous, which means it can easily absorb liquids and hold on to stains. Proper maintenance is key to preserving both the look and the performance of your floor.

At B.Protek Concrete Coatings, we help homeowners across Canada restore their concrete floors to their best condition. Here’s our complete guide to removing an oil stain, whether fresh or deep-set, and how to prevent it from coming back.

How to Remove a Fresh Oil Stain From a Concrete Floor

The golden rule: act fast. The longer you wait, the deeper the oil penetrates into the concrete, making removal more difficult.

1. Rinse the stained area
   Remove dust and debris with warm or hot water. Avoid scrubbing at this stage to prevent pushing the oil deeper into the surface.
2. Apply baking soda generously
   Cover the stain with baking soda, a natural degreaser that helps lift oils and grease. Let it sit for 20 to 30 minutes. For added strength, mix it with dish soap.
3. Scrub thoroughly
   Use a stiff-bristle brush (not metal) and hot water to scrub for several minutes.
4. Rinse again
   Pour hot water over the area to remove the cleaning mixture and residue.
5. Repeat if needed
   Some stains may reappear after a few hours as oil resurfaces. Repeat the process until it’s gone.

How to Remove a Set-In or Old Oil Stain From Concrete

Older stains require more power. The steps are similar to treating a fresh stain, but you’ll need a stronger product.

Key difference: use a heavy-duty degreaser instead of baking soda
Choose a concrete-specific degreaser or an industrial cleaner. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely.

About muriatic acid
Muriatic acid (hydrochloric acid) can be effective for dissolving embedded residues, but is highly corrosive. Always follow strict safety precautions:

• Dilute exactly as directed on the label
• Wear gloves, safety glasses, and a mask
• Ensure proper ventilation
• Rinse thoroughly after application

If you’re unsure, leave this step to a professional to avoid damaging the concrete or risking your health.

When DIY Oil Stain Removal Isn’t Enough

Some oil stains are so deeply embedded that only professional mechanical treatment will remove them completely.

At B.Protek, we use:

• Diamond-grinder machines to remove the contaminated surface layer
• HEPA-filter vacuums to capture fine concrete dust
• Targeted repair techniques to restore a smooth, even surface

This process permanently eliminates the stain and leaves the concrete ready for a protective coating.

How to Prevent Oil Stains On Your Concrete Garage Floor

Bare concrete is porous and quickly absorbs liquids. The best way to avoid damage and extend your floor’s lifespan is to protect it with a premium garage floor coating.

Our recommended solutions:

• Polyaspartic garage floor coating with vinyl flakes – slip-resistant, resistant to road salts, chemicals, hot tire pickup, and freeze-thaw cycles
• Epoxy garage floor coating – durable, but best when paired with a polyurethane topcoat for added protection

Both create a uniform, non-porous surface that’s easy to clean, even if oil spills occur.

Frequently Asked Questions About Oil Stains On Concrete

How do I remove an oil stain from a concrete driveway?
Absorb with kitty litter or baking soda, apply a degreaser, scrub, and rinse. For best results, consider professional cleaning.

Can I coat over an oil stain
No. Oil prevents proper adhesion. The contamination must be completely removed first.

Does polyaspartic resist oil stains
Yes. Oil remains on the surface and can be wiped away easily without penetrating.

Eliminate Oil Stains from Concrete with B.Protek’s Expertise

An oil stain on concrete is always easier to remove immediately. If it’s already set in, home methods can help, but professional treatment delivers lasting results.

B.Protek offers complete concrete cleaning, preparation, and premium coatings that prevent stains from coming back.

Call us today to book a free consultation or Get Your Instant Quote online now.