Things You'll Need
Vacuum cleaner or broom
2 buckets
Sponge mop
Old towels
Shop vac (optional)
Trisodium phosphate (TSP) comes in a white powder and is a strong cleaning agent. Sold at most hardware and home improvement stores, it is ideal for cleaning basement floors plagued with grease, mildew or just plain dirt. TSP also helps to clean basement floors before painting, sealing or staining. Because it is such a strong chemical, it's important to use it properly when cleaning.
Step 1
Vacuum or sweep the floor to remove surface dirt and dust.
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Step 2
Fill a bucket with 2 gallons of warm water. Add 1 cup of TSP. Use a long stick to stir up the mixture until the white powder dissolves. Fill another bucket with water.
Step 3
Dip a sponge mop into the cleaning solution and wring it out. Mop the cleaning solution onto the basement floor.
Step 4
Let the mixture sit on the floor for 15 minutes. If it appears that the liquid is drying onto the surface, apply more of the mixture with the mop.
Step 5
Scrub any tough stains from the floor with the mop. Soak up the excess water with a dry mop, towels or shop vac.
Step 6
Rinse the floor twice with a clean mop and plain water. Dry the floor thoroughly with towels.
Warning
Wear safety goggles, long clothing to cover your legs and arms, and rubber gloves when using trisodium phosphate. Work in a well-ventilated area. Avoid letting trisodium phosphate come into contact with your eyes. If it does, flush well with plenty of water and seek medical attention promptly.
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