How to Clean Concrete Floors

Concrete floors are renowned for their exceptional durability, low maintenance, and versatility, making them a popular choice for garages, basements, patios, and even modern interiors. 

Although concrete is a durable material for both indoor and outdoor flooring, its porous surface can lose its shine over time due to dirt, dust, debris, stains, spills, and everyday grime. And remember: just because a surface looks clean doesn’t mean it’s germ-free. Lysol^® kills up to 99.9% of bacteria and viruses when used on floors, helping you beyond the surface for a truly clean home.

But whether you're cleaning indoor flooring or an outdoor slab, concrete floor cleaning doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right cleaning method and reliable cleaning and disinfecting product, such as Lysol^®, you can restore that clean, fresh look and keep your floor in great shape for years to come.

This article outlines how to clean concrete floors swiftly and efficiently while preserving the quality of your concrete floors and extending their lifespan.

What to use to clean concrete floors

Make sure you have these materials on hand when cleaning concrete floors.

• Lysol^® Multi-Surface Liquid Cleaner
• Water
• Bucket
• Microfiber mop
• Soft-bristle brush
• Microfiber cloths
• Broom or vacuum

Best way to clean concrete floors

Step 1: Remove surface dirt and debris

Start by removing everything (cars, patio furniture, grills, plants, toys, etc.) from the concrete floor that you wish to clean. Then, sweep the concrete floor thoroughly using a broom with stiff bristles or a vacuum designed for hard surfaces. This helps eliminate loose dirt, dust, leaves, and any abrasive particles that could scratch the surface during mopping or scrubbing.

Step 2: Clean concrete floors

In a bucket, combine 1 gallon of warm water with ¼ cup (2 fl. oz.) of Lysol^® Multi-Surface Liquid Cleaner. We recommend using it at full strength to clean dirt, dust, grime, and stains across the entire surface area of your floor. If using at full strength, always remember to rinse thoroughly with clean water.

For the same effective cleaning, consider using Lysol^® Disinfecting Wipes. Specially formulated for hard, non-porous surfaces, it's perfect for high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms. These wipes eliminate 99.99% of viruses and bacteria, leaving behind a hygienic surface and long-lasting freshness.

Step 3: Scrub the floor thoroughly

Dip a mop or soft-bristle scrub brush into your prepared cleaning solution and begin working it into the concrete surface. Use circular motions to lift dirt and stains, focusing extra attention on high-traffic or heavily soiled areas. For outdoor or unsealed floors, you can use a push broom or floor buffer for more effective scrubbing. Let the solution sit briefly on stubborn spots to help break up grime.

Step 4: Rinse away the residue

Once you have mopped or scrubbed the entire floor, rinse it thoroughly with clean water. For outdoor concrete, use a garden hose or pressure washer to wash away the cleaning solution and loosened dirt. Indoors, mop the floor with clean water or use a wet vacuum for faster results. Ensure that all cleaning solution residue is removed, as leftover soap can attract more dirt and leave streaks on the surface.

Step 5: Dry the floor properly

Use clean and dry microfiber towels or a dry mop to dry the floor, absorbing excess moisture thoroughly. Ensure good ventilation by opening the windows or using fans. The outdoor concrete floors can simply be left to air dry. Additionally, avoid walking on the surface until it’s completely dry to prevent re-soiling and slipping.

FAQs

How often should I clean my concrete floors?

For routine maintenance, sweep or dust weekly to prevent buildup. Mop or deep clean once a month, or as needed, depending on foot traffic and exposure to dirt or stains.

Can I use vinegar to clean concrete floors?

It is better to avoid using vinegar to clean concrete floors as its acidity can degrade the protective finish and potentially etch or damage the concrete.

How do I make my concrete floor shine?

To make concrete floors shine, clean thoroughly and then apply a concrete polish or floor wax, as recommended by the manufacturer.

Do concrete floors carry germs?

Yes, concrete floors can trap germs in their porous surface, especially in high-traffic areas. Lysol^® kills up to 99.9% of bacteria and viruses when used as directed, helping keep your floors clean and hygienic.

Are there any floor cleaners that actually smell good?

Yes! While many floor cleaners can leave behind strong or unpleasant odours, Lysol^® offers a variety of fresh, pleasant scents perfect for everyday use. From our best-selling Lemon scent, to our new Brand New Day collection, Lysol^® helps you clean and disinfect, and leaves your home smelling as fresh as it looks.