How To Clean Anti-Freeze from Concrete

Antifreeze, like motor/engine oil, can get on your concrete garage or driveway from drips and container spills. Aside from the stain issue, antifreeze containing ethylene glycol should be cleaned up promptly particularly if you have pets. To pets and children, the taste and appearance of antifreeze is slightly sweet and attractive, although the substance is poisonous to them; they should be kept away until these spills and stains are removed. Remember, that concrete types and sealants can vary, and cleaning materials and techniques should be tested on a small area before using on a wider area.

Unlike oil based stains, antifreeze is dissolvable in water. This can be used to the stain-removal advantage. Hydrate the affected area with water. Sprinkle powdered laundry detergent over the watered-down stain. Place a few layers of newspaper directly over the detergent-sprinkled stain and press flat. Wet thoroughly. Allow to sit for up to three hours. Remove the newspapers and discard. Use a nylon bristle brush wet with water to scrub the antifreeze stained area and create a sudsy cleaning agent with the sprinkled laundry detergent. Rinse the brush in clean water, and use to remove excess antifreeze and detergent suds residue. Blot well with clean newspaper and allow to dry.

Caution: Never mix cleaning agents or chemicals, the result can be dangerous or deadly. Before cleaning, always test the agent on an inconspicuous location to determine its suitability and to make certain it does not damage the material. Wear appropriate clothing such as gloves and protective eyewear, and work in a well-ventilated area. Accidental inhalation or ingestion of cleaning agents can be hazardous and even fatal, particularly to pets and children.