How to Remove Rust Stains From Concrete

There is no easy way to remove rust stains with just a solvent cleaner. The best way to go about this is by dissolving a layer of concrete with a very strong solution. With a little help from muriatic acid, this problem will be history. Here is how to get rid of those rust stains, so break out your safety gear.

Things You'll Need

• Rubber gloves
• Boots
• Goggles
• Respirator for acidic vapors
• Fan for air movement
• 5-gallon bucket of water
• Muriatic acid
• Plastic pan
• Measuring cup
• Plastic cover for floor
• Long handled floor brush.

Instructions

1. Follow directions carefully. Lay all materials on a plastic cover. Once you have your safety gear on, put two cups of water in the plastic pan and add 1/4 cup of muriatic acid to the water. Always pour acid into water and not the other way around.

2. Apply a little acid solution at a time on the rust stain. Solution will bubble. Let it soak in and begin to work for about five minutes. Use the floor brush to scrub it in and reapply as needed. Remember the acid is removing a top layer of concrete.

3. Use fresh water to rinse off and scrub the area clean. Make sure every trace of solution is gone. Do not get any of this solution on plants or they will die.

4. Notice the look of the concrete. The cleaned area will be left slightly rougher than the rest but it does not hurt the floor. It will be comparable to light sandpaper.

5. Once you have removed all stains and solution, let the floor dry. Rinse off your equipment and take a shower. To protect your floor from future damage or stains, seal it with a concrete sealant.

Tips & Warnings

• Buy muriatic acid at a local hardware store. Follow directions for acid mixing on bottle if different than directions here.

• Never mix solution by pouring the water onto the chemical.

• Keep out of reach of children.

• If you get any of this solution on your skin, wash it off with water immediately.