Selection Of Cleaning Tools
I think having the right equipment makes a big difference in manual concrete cleaning. Some effective options include.
Broom – A stiff bristle broom is essential for sweeping up loose debris before scrubbing. Opt for one meant for outdoor hard surfaces.
Deck scrub brush – Also called a deck block brush, these rugged scrubbing tools feature durable nylon bristles set in a non-slip grip handle. They can withstand heavy scrubbing pressure.
Concrete cleaning brush – Similar to a deck brush but with stiff bristles made of brass, fiberglass, or plastic for breaking through hardened messes.
Cleaning rags – Microfiber or terry cloth rags are handy for applying cleaners, wiping surfaces, and drying after rinsing. Cotton rags can scrub small areas.
Containers – You'll need buckets or bins for mixing cleaners as well as holding soapy rinse water. Consider separate ones for each task.
Concrete Cleaning Without Pressure Washer
Soap Paste Method
It's a great alternative to pressure washing, as it doesn't require any special equipment or harsh chemicals.
Mix powdered laundry detergent or dish soap with just enough water to form a thick paste
Apply directly and scrub vigorously with a deck brush, reapplying paste as needed
Allow to dwell 5-10 mins before rinsing clean. Great for oil, and grease
Deck Cleaning Block Scrub
It's a cost-effective alternative to harsh chemicals and is gentle on surfaces, making it an excellent choice for cleaning concrete.
Available at hardware stores, these are durable nylon abrasive blocks
Use light pressure in straight lines while scrubbing caked-on grime from concrete
Rinse cleaned areas to prevent slick surfaces as you work section by section
Vinegar Soak and Pressure Scrub
Vinegar is a natural and versatile cleaning agent that has been used for centuries. It's a cost-effective alternative to harsh chemicals and is gentle on surfaces, making it an excellent choice for cleaning concrete.
White vinegar is the most common type of vinegar used for cleaning concrete. It's inexpensive and can be found in most grocery stores.
Baking soda and vinegar: Mixing baking soda and vinegar creates a natural cleaning solution that can be used to clean concrete surfaces. The baking soda acts as a gentle abrasive, while the vinegar helps to dissolve dirt and grime.
Saturate the surface with straight white vinegar and cover it with plastic for 8 hours
Pressure scrub with a stiff brush as the vinegar helps lift ingrained soils
Specialized Cleaning Jobs
Some concrete stains require extra steps for effective removal by hand:
Grease, Oil Stains: Reapply degreasing cleaner and let soak for 30 minutes before vigorous scrubbing with a deck brush. Several treatments may be needed.
Moss and Mildew: Make a bleach solution. Soak affected areas and scrub away growth. Rinse and apply concrete sealant.
Rust Stains: Make a cleaner by mixing 1 tbsp oxalic acid and 3 tbsp ammonia per 1 cup water. Apply and scrub to dissolve rust marks.
Chewing Gum: Freeze it solid with an ice cube, then scrape off while still frozen using a credit card or plastic scraper.
Ground-in Dirt: Reapply cleaning solution, cover with a plastic sheet for 6 hours, then peel off with scraper before scrubbing residue.
Conclusion
Cleaning concrete by hand requires some elbow grease but does not require an expensive pressure washer machine to achieve great results. With the right cleaning products paired with sturdy manual tools and proper technique, you can successfully remove even deeply embedded dirt, grease, and stains. With some practice, getting those gray concrete surfaces sparkling white is absolutely within reach without pressure.
