How Remove Oil From a Slippery Floor
Grease and oil spills, especially on an already slippery floor surface, pose a slipping hazard. Cleaning up the spill immediately prevents it from spreading, but plain water won't cut through the oily residue. Combining an alkaline cleaner with an acidic one breaks down the oil and removes the slipperiness. Alkaline cleaners, like washing soda, alter oils into a soapy substance, but an acid such as vinegar is necessary to remove the soapy, oily residue before it hardens on the floor.
Step 01
Combine 1 teaspoon of washing soda with 1 gallon of warm water in a mop bucket.
Step 11
Mop the floor with the soda water. Rinse and wring the mop regularly to remove the oil particles from the mop head. Some foaming may occur when the washing soda comes in contact with the oil.
Step 21
Empty the mop bucket and refill it with 1 gallon of fresh, warm water. Mix 1 cup of white vinegar into the mop water.
Step 31
Mop the floor with the vinegar water, rinsing and wringing the mop as necessary. The vinegar breaks down and removes any remaining oil or washing soda residue.
Step 41
Wipe the floor dry with a clean towel. Check for any remaining oily or slippery spots. Mop these spots a second time with the soda and vinegar.
References
Tips
- Washing soda and vinegar are suitable for linoleum, tile and wood flooring. Dry the floors immediately so water doesn't remain on the surface. Standing water can warp wood and linoleum floors.
Warnings
- Do not use alkaline cleaners or rubber tiles. Only use mild detergents formulated for cleaning these surfaces.
Writer Bio
Jenny Harrington has been a freelance writer since 2006. Her published articles have appeared in various print and online publications. Previously, she owned her own business, selling handmade items online, wholesale and at crafts fairs. Harrington's specialties include small business information, crafting, decorating and gardening.
Photo Credits
- Jupiterimages/Polka Dot/Getty Images
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