How To Clean Your Garage Floor

Have you ever walked into your garage only to notice unsightly debris, stains, and marks? If so, it’s time to add garage cleaning to your to-do list.

Unfortunately, we all know how daunting cleaning a garage floor can be. Oil stains and dirt build-up are common issues, and things can get tricky when you’re dealing with signs of water damage.

So, how do you start cleaning your garage? Let us take you through it.

Whether you’re preparing for a project, tidying up after a spill, or just looking to maintain a clean space, this guide is all you’ll need to keep your garage spick and span for the long haul.

Step 1: Clear the Floor

The first step is to clear as much of the garage as possible. Move out cars, tools, storage boxes, and anything else that may be in the way. Not only will this give you a clearer space to work with but it will also allow you to identify any areas that might need special attention, such as oil spots or cracks.

If your garage tends to accumulate clutter, this might also be a good opportunity to organize it.

Step 2: Sweep Away Debris

Once the floor is cleared, give it a thorough sweep. Garage floors tend to collect dust, dirt, leaves, and even small stones over time.

A broom with stiff bristles works best for sweeping up debris. Start from the back of the garage and work your way toward the door to avoid dragging dirt across areas you’ve already cleaned.

If you have a shop vacuum, it can make the process even easier by picking up smaller particles that a broom might miss.

Step 3: Remove Stains

Stains are a common problem on garage floors, especially if you’ve had oil or chemical spills. The method you use to remove them will depend on the type of stain:

• Oil and Grease: For fresh oil stains, sprinkle cat litter or baking soda over the area to absorb the oil. Let it sit for a few hours, then sweep it up. Use a degreaser and scrub with a stiff brush for older, set-in stains.
• Rust: Rust stains can be treated with lemon juice or vinegar. Pour it directly onto the stain, let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes, then scrub with a brush.
• Paint: Paint stains may require a specialized paint remover or solvent, depending on how long the paint has been there.

If your garage floor is made of polyaspartic material, like we offer at Ohio Garage Interiors, you’ll find that stains are much easier to manage.

Our polyaspartic flooring resists oil, grease, and chemicals, making it far less likely for stains to set in compared to traditional concrete or epoxy floors.

Step 4: Scrub and Wash the Floor

After addressing any stains, it’s time to give the entire floor a deep clean. For most garage floors, a mixture of warm water and a mild detergent will do the trick. Use a mop or a long-handled scrub brush to work the solution into the floor.

Pay extra attention to areas that see the most foot traffic or vehicle use. For stubborn dirt or grease, you might need to apply more pressure or use a stronger cleaning solution.

If you have a polyaspartic garage floor, you’re in luck.

Polyaspartic coatings are designed to be incredibly durable and easy to clean. Because they resist staining and don’t absorb water, a quick wash with a mild soap is usually all you need to keep the floor looking pristine.

Step 5: Rinse and Dry

Once the scrubbing is complete, it’s important to rinse away any soap residue. Use a hose or a bucket of clean water to rinse off the entire garage floor, ensuring no detergent is left behind. Polyaspartic floors, in particular, dry quickly and evenly, thanks to their water-resistant properties, so you won’t have to worry about puddles forming or water seeping into cracks.

Bonus Tip: Consider Switching to Polyaspartic Floors

If you find yourself spending a lot of time scrubbing away at stains embedded in rough, old concrete or dealing with moisture problems, it might be time to consider a garage floor upgrade.

At Ohio Garage Interiors, we specialize in our proprietary polyaspartic floor coating system, a superior alternative to traditional epoxy floors. Not only is polyaspartic flooring resistant to staining, dirt, and water but it also comes with a 20-year warranty against peeling and delamination.

Its easy-to-clean surface and long-lasting durability make it the perfect solution for homeowners looking to simplify garage maintenance.

Make the switch and say hello to low-maintenance garage floors. Contact us today for a free consultation.