Cement floors are durable, versatile, and common in homes, garages, patios, and basements. But because cement is porous, it absorbs dirt, moisture, and stains easily.

The best ways to clean a cement floor are to sweep daily, mop weekly with warm water and a pH-neutral cleaner, and deep clean seasonally using a mild detergent or TSP substitute. Treat stains with targeted solutions like baking soda paste for oil and vinegar for rust. Always use gloves, ventilate the area, and seal the floor afterward for easier maintenance.

This guide walks you through every method. Whether you’re dealing with everyday dust in a basement or oil spills in a garage, proper cleaning helps preserve the strength and appearance of the cement floor. We’ll dive into practical methods backed by expert standards, helping you build topical authority on concrete care.

Daily and Weekly Maintenance for Cement Floors

Cement floors endure heavy use, but skipping routine care causes etching and grime buildup. Focus on dry and lightly damp methods to protect their porous surface, which absorbs liquids easily.

Daily Sweeping or Vacuuming

Sweep or vacuum every day with a soft-bristle broom or shop vac with a brush attachment. This removes sand, dust, and pet hair, preventing scratches from foot traffic. In busy spots like kitchens or entryways, do it in the morning to clear overnight debris.

Weekly Mopping

Mix warm water with 1-2 teaspoons of mild dish soap or pH-neutral concrete cleaner. Use a damp microfiber mop—wring it well to avoid excess water that could cause mold in basements. Clean in 4×4-foot sections from the back corner outward, rinsing the mop frequently. For sealed or polished floors, finish with a plain water rinse to avoid residue.

Pro Tips and Schedule

In humid areas like laundry rooms, use a fan for quick drying. Clean concrete floors with daily sweeps in high-traffic homes, weekly mops for moderate use, and bi-weekly for low-traffic zones. This best-practice schedule maintains freshness and longevity.

For garage-specific advice, see our Garage Floor Maintenance Guide.

Cement Floors – Deep Cleaning Methods 

Deep cleaning goes far beyond weekly mopping. It removes embedded dirt, grease, and contaminants trapped inside the pores of cement—especially unsealed floors. Indoor cement floors should be deep-cleaned every three months. At the same time, outdoor surfaces benefit from twice-yearly cleaning, ideally on overcast days so the cleaning solution doesn’t dry too quickly and leave residue.

1. Preparation – Clear and Prep the Area

A spotless, accessible surface is essential for effective deep cleaning.

Clear All Items From the Surface

Remove anything that may block access or interfere with cleaning:

• Furniture or shelving
• Rugs or mats
• Vehicles
• Plants and décor
• Storage bins, tools, or loose objects

This ensures a uniform cleaning finish across the entire floor without any patchy areas.

Sweep Thoroughly With a Soft-Bristle Broom

Use a soft-bristle or push broom to remove dirt, sand, leaves, and grit.
Cement is porous—when loose debris mixes with cleaning solution later, it can turn into slurry and stain the floor deeper.

Focus extra effort on:

• Entry points
• High-traffic paths
• Edges under benches or workstations

Vacuum Edges, Corners & Cracks for Fine Dust

A broom can’t reach everything. Use a HEPA or shop vacuum to remove:

• Powdery dust that settles in corners
• Debris inside cracks, holes, and joints
• Finer dirt along walls and edges
• Cobwebs or micro-dust in tight areas
  
  This prevents the fine dust from turning into mud when a wet cleaner is applied.

2. Deep Cleaning Unsealed Floors 

Unsealed cement absorbs oils, grease, and dirt deeply. This method targets grime inside the pores.

Mix a Strong but Safe Cleaning Solution

Use:

• 1 gallon of warm water
• ¼ cup TSP (powerful degreaser)
  OR
• A safer TSP substitute for eco-friendly cleaning

Warm water boosts chemical activation and helps dissolve oily residues.

Scrub in Controlled Sections

Dip a stiff nylon brush and scrub in circular motions.
Work in 4×4 ft sections so the cleaner doesn’t dry too quickly.

This allows you to:

• Apply even pressure
• Control dwell time
• Prevent streaks
• Focus on high-traffic or heavily stained areas

Let the Solution Dwell 10–15 Minutes

This dwell time breaks down:

• Grease
• Soil buildup
• Soap residues
• Organic stains

But never let it fully dry—mist lightly with water if needed.

Rinse Thoroughly Until No Suds Remain

• Outdoors → Use a garden hose
• Indoors → Use a clean wet mop and buckets of fresh water

Any leftover residue can leave streaks or attract new dirt quickly.

Allow Complete Drying

Let the floor dry:

• Naturally
• With fans
• With a floor squeegee

Damp cement can foster the growth of mildew and affect future sealing.

Always Test First

Test the solution in a small hidden area to confirm:

• No discoloration
• No surface etching
• No unexpected reactions

3. Pressure Washing Outdoor Areas

Ideal for patios, driveways, and outdoor cement where debris is heavier.

Use the Correct PSI and Nozzle

• 1,500–2,000 PSI is safe for most cement
• Use a 25°–40° fan tip for a wide, even spray

This prevents gouging or etching the cement surface.

Maintain Proper Distance and Angle

Keep the nozzle:

• 6–12 inches from the floor
• At a 45° angle

This removes dirt effectively without damaging the cement.

Use Overlapping Passes

Move from one end to the other using overlapping strokes.
This ensures:

• No streaking
• No missed patches
• A uniform finish across the floor

Pre-Treat Heavy Stains

Apply the degreaser 10 minutes before pressure washing.
This softens oil, mold, and organic buildup, allowing the pressure washer to lift it easily.

4. Cleaning Sealed & Polished Concrete 

Sealed and polished surfaces require gentler methods to prevent damage to the finish.

Use Only pH-Neutral Cleaners

Avoid using vinegar, ammonia, lemon, bleach, or any harsh acid—they degrade sealers and dull polished surfaces.

A pH-neutral cleaner:

• Protects the sealer
• Maintains shine
• Prevents haze buildup

Damp Mop, Don’t Soak

Use a microfiber mop to apply cleaner with minimal water.
Excess moisture can:

• Leave streaks
• Dull polish
• Penetrate seams or joints

Rinse With Fresh Water

Always rinse after using the cleaner.
Leftover residue makes sealed floors look cloudy.

Boost Shine on Polished Floors

After cleaning, use a:

• Low-speed buffer
• Soft white polishing pad

This restores the reflective finish without abrasion.

Avoid Aggressive Scrubbing

Harsh brushes or pads can remove sealer and expose the raw cement underneath.

5. Dry vs. Wet Cleaning Options 

Dry cleaning prevents airborne particles from settling, and it avoids moisture on sensitive surfaces.
Includes:

• HEPA vacuuming
• Dust mopping with a treated microfiber mop

Perfect for:

• Kitchens
• Basements
• Families with allergies
• Quick weekly upkeep

Wet Cleaning (Best for Spills & Sticky Grime)

Use mild detergent, warm water, and a nylon brush.
Wet cleaning removes:

• Spills
• Sticky dirt
• Mud footprints
• Food residue

Combine Dry + Wet for the Deepest Clean

Dry clean first → removes loose dirt
Wet clean after → dissolves embedded grime
This is the most effective method overall.

6. DIY vs. Hiring a Professional 

DIY Cleaning Is Suitable For:

• Homes and small garages
• Light to moderate grime
• Routine deep cleaning
• Basic stain removal
• Newly installed floors, you simply want to maintain them

You only need household tools, a brush, and a mild cleaner.

Hire a Professional When:

• Cleaning large warehouses or commercial spaces
• You need uniform, streak-free results over big areas
• Floors require hot-water extraction, rotary scrubbers, or planetary grinders
• There is heavy oil contamination
• You suspect asbestos, old coatings, or chemical residues
• Wastewater needs to be collected and disposed of legally

Professionals also understand concepts such as cement pH, porosity, dwell times, and industry standards.

Follow these sections in order, and your cement floor will look brand-new again!

Research from the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation stresses proper cleaning and roughening for strong repair bonds, reducing future cracks.

Stain Removal Guide: Banish Oil, Paint, Rust, Mold, and Mildew

Cement stains are particularly stubborn and hard due to its absorbency, but quick action with the right agents pulls them out. Always blot—don’t rub—to avoid spreading. How do you remove stains from concrete floors? Target the type for best results.

Oil and Grease Stains:

Common in garages due to leaks. Sprinkle cat litter or cornstarch generously over the spot to absorb overnight (up to 3 days for heavy spills). Sweep away, then scrub with a degreaser such as Simple Green mixed with hot water. Rinse and dry. For old marks, repeat or use a poultice—a thick paste of baking soda and water that is left to dry before being scraped.

Paint Stains:

Fresh drips? Wipe with a damp cloth and dish soap. Dried latex? Apply a paint stripper per label, scrub with a nylon brush, and neutralize with water. Oil-based needs mineral spirits—test first to avoid discoloration.

Rust Stains:

From tools or pipes. Pour undiluted white vinegar over the area, let it fizz for 20-30 minutes, then scrub. Rinse well. Stubborn spots call for a commercial rust remover with oxalic acid, applied sparingly.

Mold and Mildew:

Thrives in damp basements. Mix 1 part bleach to 10 parts water (or use a mold-killing detergent). Spray, let sit 10 minutes, scrub, and rinse. Prevent regrowth by improving ventilation. Can you use bleach on concrete floors? Yes, diluted for mold, but avoid on colored or sealed surfaces—it may fade them.

For eco options, how do you clean concrete floors naturally? Baking soda and vinegar fizz away light stains without harsh chemicals. Can vinegar damage concrete? In high concentrations, it etches unsealed floors—dilute 1:1 with water for safety.

Act fast: Fresh stains lift easier. If DIY fails, pros use steam or acid washes. See our Polished Concrete Care for finish-specific tweaks.

The Getty Conservation Institute’s guide on historic concrete highlights biocide poultices for biological growth, validating these methods for tough, embedded issues.

Tools and Supplies Needed: Complete Cleaning Kit

Having the right tools makes cleaning faster, safer, and more effective while protecting your cement floor from scratches or chemical damage. Most items are inexpensive and available at any hardware store.

Essential Everyday Tools

• Soft-bristle broom or dust mop 

 Perfect for daily dry sweeping; soft fibers lift dirt without scratching the surface.

• Microfiber mop + bucket with wringer 

Traps dust and grime better than cotton and lets you control moisture to avoid over-wetting porous concrete.

• Stiff nylon brush 

 Ideal for scrubbing during deep cleans; nylon is tough on dirt but gentle on cement (never use wire brushes—they leave permanent marks).

• Shop vac or HEPA vacuum 

 Sucks up fine dust, sand, and debris from corners and cracks where brooms can’t reach.

Recommended Cleaners

• pH-neutral dish soap or concrete-safe cleaner (e.g., Simple Green) 

 Safe for weekly mopping on sealed and unsealed floors without breaking down sealers.

• TSP substitute (trisodium phosphate alternative) 

 Powerful yet safer for quarterly deep cleans on unsealed concrete.

• White vinegar & baking soda 

 Affordable, eco-friendly options for natural stain removal and light scrubbing.

• Degreaser, diluted bleach, and rust remover 

 Targeted solutions for oil, mold, and rust stains when basic cleaners aren’t enough.

Optional Power Tools

• Pressure washer (max 1,500–2,000 PSI for home use) 

 Speeds up outdoor patio or driveway cleaning; higher pressure can etch the surface.

• Oscillating fan 

 Quickly dries floors after wet cleaning, preventing moisture from seeping into pores and causing mold or efflorescence.

What should you not use to clean concrete floors? Skip ammonia—it leaves residue—and acidic cleaners such as undiluted vinegar on unsealed surfaces. Is it safe to use ammonia on concrete? Rarely, it dulls finishes and attracts dirt.

For old floors, how do you clean old concrete floors? Gentle tools prevent crumbling—start with vacuuming, then light scrubs. Total cost? Under $50 for starters. Our Concrete Floor Cleaning Guide expands on pro-grade gear.

Safety and Chemical Tips: Protect Yourself and Your Floor

Always put safety first—concrete cleaning mixes water, chemicals, and slippery surfaces.

Personal Protection

Wear rubber gloves, safety goggles, old clothes, and shoes with a good grip. Use a respirator when working with TSP, bleach, or strong degreasers to avoid inhaling fumes.

Slip and Ventilation Rules

Wet concrete is extremely slippery—dry the floor completely after cleaning (OSHA 1910.22 requires hazard-free walking surfaces). Open windows and doors or run fans; mix chemicals outside whenever possible.

Safe Chemical Handling

• Dilute strong cleaners exactly as directed (e.g., muriatic acid 1:10 with water).
• Never mix bleach with ammonia or acids, as dangerous gases can form.
• Choose plant-based, biodegradable degreasers for an eco-friendly, low-toxin option.

Extra Precautions

Keep children and pets out of the area until everything is dry and rinsed. When pressure washing, angle the spray away from edges and joints to prevent chipping.

DIY vs. Professional

Small cleaning tasks are safe for DIY, but hire a Professional Floor Cleaning Service for large areas, deep stains, chemical treatments, or older floors that may contain asbestos. Professionals understand surface pH, porosity, and dwell-time, ensuring the job meets ASTM D4258 surface preparation standards. Always leave the floor clean, rinsed, pH-neutral, and fully dry before sealing.

Sealing and Protection (Optional): Lock in the Clean

Sealing isn’t required, but it turns porous concrete into a low-maintenance, stain-resistant surface that stays cleaner longer.

Why Seal Your Cement Floor?

A good sealer fills microscopic pores, repels oil, water, and dirt, reduces dusting, and prevents mold growth in damp areas—making future cleaning much easier.

Types of Sealers

• Penetrating (silane/siloxane) → Soaks in, keeps natural look, allows the floor to breathe; best for basements and outdoor areas.
• Acrylic or topical → Sits on top, adds slight sheen; great for indoor living spaces.
• Epoxy → Tough, glossy finish; ideal for garages and high-wear zones.
• UV-resistant sealers → Essential for patios and driveways to prevent sun fading.

When and How to Apply

1. Deep clean and let the floor dry completely (24–48 hours, longer in humid conditions).
2. Apply 2–3 thin coats with a roller, following product instructions (usually 4 hours between coats).
3. Allow full cure (typically 24–72 hours) before walking or placing furniture.
4. Reapply every 3–5 years (epoxy may last longer). 

Important Notes

Skip sealing on already polished concrete—the polishing process already densifies the surface. Always test a small area first to check appearance and adhesion.

Sealing is one of the smartest upgrades you can make for long-term beauty and easy upkeep.

Read more about: What Is Floor Sealing? Benefits, Process, and Best Types Explained

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do you clean concrete floors naturally?

Mix baking soda and vinegar to create a fizzing scrub for light stains. For general cleaning, mop with a gentle solution of dish soap and warm water. This method is ideal for sensitive skin, homes with children or pets, and avoids harsh chemicals that can damage sealers or polished surfaces.

2. Can you use bleach on concrete floors?

Yes, but only in diluted form—typically 1 part bleach to 10 parts water—for mold or mildew. Always test on a small area first, especially on colored or sealed floors, as bleach can fade finishes. After application, rinse thoroughly to remove residues and prevent chemical reactions.

3. How do you clean unsealed concrete floors?

Scrub with a TSP solution or an eco-friendly substitute, rinse thoroughly, and dry completely. Unsealed floors are porous and absorb liquids easily, so thorough rinsing and drying prevent staining and mold growth. Avoid over-wetting, as it can damage the floor over time.

4. What is the best way to clean concrete floors?

Weekly damp mopping with a pH-neutral soap works for routine maintenance. Seasonally, use deeper cleaning methods such as TSP or eco-degreasers for unsealed floors, or pressure washing for outdoor areas. Regular cleaning prevents dirt build-up and extends floor lifespan.

5. How do you clean old concrete floors?

Vacuum or sweep thoroughly first, then scrub gently with a mild TSP solution. Avoid abrasive methods that can crumble aged concrete. For stubborn stains, consider spot treatments like baking soda poultices or professional-grade cleaners suitable for historic floors.

6. Can vinegar damage concrete?

Yes, in high concentrations, vinegar can etch unsealed floors. Always dilute 1:1 with water if used for rust removal or light cleaning. On sealed or polished surfaces, avoid vinegar entirely to prevent dulling the finish.

7. How do you remove stains from concrete floors?

Act quickly for the best results. Absorb oils with cat litter or cornstarch, scrub rust with vinegar, and treat paint or chemical spills according to type. For deep-set stains, a poultice or professional cleaning may be required. Always rinse and dry thoroughly afterward.

8. What should you not use to clean concrete floors?

Avoid ammonia, bleach on colored or sealed surfaces, acidic cleaners, and wire brushes. These can strip sealers, dull polished surfaces, and cause permanent etching or scratches. Stick to pH-neutral cleaners, mild detergents, or approved eco-friendly alternatives.

9. How often should you clean concrete floors?

Daily sweeps remove dust and debris, weekly mopping handles light grime, and quarterly or seasonal deep cleaning removes embedded dirt and stains. Adjust frequency based on traffic and environmental conditions to maintain the floor’s appearance and longevity.

10. Is it safe to use ammonia on concrete?

Routine use of ammonia is not recommended, as it strips protective sealers and can leave a sticky residue that attracts dirt. Use pH-neutral or eco-friendly cleaners for regular maintenance instead. Ammonia may be used occasionally for tough spot cleaning, but always rinse thoroughly.