Things You'll Need:
- Plastic bucket
- Garden hose
- Water source
- Proper safety gear
- Scrub brush
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Step 1
Dress in proper clothing and safety gear for the job. Since muriatic acid is a caustic chemical, it is wise to wear protective gear such as goggles, gloves, long-sleeve shirts, pants and closed-toe shoes. You want to keep as much of your skin protected as possible.
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Step 2
In a plastic bucket measure one part muriatic acid, to 20 parts water. This is the safest and ideal strength for use in cleaning concrete and other outdoor surfaces. Although this is a general rule of thumb, remember to always read the package instructions for a varied mixing method.
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Step 3
Hose down the concrete completely with your garden hose. You want the area to be fully saturated, before you begin cleaning. This will also free the concrete of any loose debris.
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Step 4
Apply the muriatic acid solution to the concrete with your scrub brush. Allow the muriatic acid to remain on the concrete for at least 10 minutes after a strong scrubbing. This will allow the chemical compounds to be released into the concrete, making painting or staining more acceptable.
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Step 5
Once again give the concrete a saturating spray with your hose, and remove as much of the acid as possible. If the desired amount of cleaning has not been reached, repeat the process as necessary.
