How to Clean Up an Oil Spill

Oops! You knocked over a gallon of oil and didn’t notice right away because you were too busy arranging shelves in your garage. Maybe you didn’t tighten the oil plug on your ATV when you changed the oil. Whatever the reason, you have a mess. Most likely it’s not as bad as it looks. Roll up your sleeves and gather the items below. The oil spill will soon be nothing more than a bad memory.

Things You'll Need

• Oil absorbent pads
• Natural or commercial oil absorbent material
• Push broom
• Water
• Liquid detergent or environmentally friendly hydrocarbon mitigation agent

Instructions

Cleaning up an Oil Spill

1. Contain the spill as soon as possible. If the spill is still spreading, place absorbent pads around the outside edges to stop it. Absorbent pads also help wick oil out of the spill area.

2. Remove as much of the oil as possible. There are many methods that can be used. The two easiest methods are to place absorbent pads over the spill area or to pour kitty litter, vermiculite, sand, sawdust or straw over the oil. These materials will absorb oil out of the spill area.

3. Place the oil-soaked material you used in Step 2 in plastic bags. This material must be disposed of properly. The next time you visit the landfill, place the bags in the designated hazardous waste container.

4. Shake a handful or two of laundry detergent or hydrocarbon mitigation agent over the stained area.

5. Scrub the detergent or hydrocarbon mitigation agent into the stained area with a push broom, using short back and forth motions. A scrub brush can used in place of the push broom. Add a little water to the area, preferably warm, and scrub the area again for a minute or two. If using laundry detergent and water, let the solution sit on the stain overnight, then proceed to Step 6. If cleaning up the oil spill area with hydrocarbon mitigation agent and water, proceed immediately to Step 6.

6. Rinse the area until all the detergent or hydrocarbon mitigation agent has been removed. Let the area dry and enjoy!

Tips & Warnings

• If the oil spill is large, the oil will need to be removed with a skimmer and then disposed of properly. Local authorities may need to be notified.

• If you have access to a pressure washer, you can pressure wash the area after you have completed Step 5. Hot water up to 190-degrees Fahrenheit works best.

• Cola can be poured on the spill after Step 3 and left on the stain overnight before proceeding to Step 4. Cola helps dissolve oily residue.

• If the oil stain is particularly tough to clean, you may have to resort to using a commercial concrete cleaner or muriatic acid. Follow product instructions carefully.