How to Remove Motor Oil from Concrete Driveway

Co-authored by Duston Maynes

Last Updated: January 27, 2023 References

Motor oil quickly seeps into the layers of the driveway, which makes removal difficult. Attacking the stain while it is fresh will produce the best results.

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:

Fresh Spills

Purchase engine degreaser or cleaning products beforehand so that you are prepared for spills or drips before they occur.

1
Encircle the spill with sand, dirt, sawdust or cat litter to prevent further spreading.
2
Soak up the spill using an absorbent towel, cloth or powder.

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3
Apply an engine degreaser or other specific cleaning product according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.^{[1]
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4
Rinse the surface thoroughly using a garden hose.^{[2]
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Method 2

Method 2 of 2:

Old Spills

Older spills require a solution with more cleaning power.

1
Encircle the stain with cat litter to contain cleaning products.^{[3]
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- Sand, dirt, or sawdust could also work.
2
Create a poultice of 1-part lime to 2-parts mineral turpentine in a 5 gallon (18.9 L) bucket. Use a wooden paint stirrer stick to stir the mixture.
3
Spread a 1/4" (6 mm) layer of the poultice over the stain using a drywall finishing knife. Make sure to spread the poultice out so that there is a 2" (50 mm) margin around the stain.
4
Cover the stain with plastic sheeting and leave for 24 hours. Set rocks, bricks or concrete blocks at each corner to secure the sheeting so that it does not blow away.
5
Remove the sheeting and scrape off the powder using a drywall finishing knife.
6
Mix 1/4 cup of laundry detergent and 1 gallon (3.8 L) of warm water in a clean, five gallon bucket.
7
Scrub the area with warm water and laundry detergent using a stiff nylon bristled brush.^{[4]
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- There are various types of concrete cleaners on the market, too—just be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions when using these.
8
Rinse with clean water using a garden hose.^{[5]
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- A pressure washer can help you get rid of the oil stain.

Community Q&A

Question

How much does it cost to have a motor oil stain removed from concrete by a professional?

Community Answer

It can vary from around $50 to $100. This depends on where you live and who you talk to.

Warnings

Follow all package instructions related to engine degreaser, cleaning products, turpentine and lime.

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Keep animals and children away from your work area to prevent poisoning.

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Turpentine is flammable. Do not smoke or use an open flame near turpentine at any time.

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