How to Neutralize Muriatic Acid

Muriatic acid is often used to clean a garage floor or outdoor pavement. Once the acid has done its work, cleaning away oil and grease stains, it needs to be thoroughly cleaned from the concrete or other masonry surface. Any leftover muriatic acid should be neutralized. The neutralization process is a simple task, involving the use of lime or baking soda and water. Use a bucket for mixing the ingredients together, or use the ingredients directly on a spill to neutralize the acid.

Things You'll Need

• Lime or baking soda
• Large bucket
• Stirring stick

Instructions

1. Get a large bucket, about 5 gallons. Using a larger bucket will minimize splatter issues.

2. Use 3 to 4 cups of garden lime (or baking soda), mixed with 1 gallon of water. Mix the ingredients in the bucket, stirring with a stick.

3. Add in the muriatic acid slowly, being careful not to slosh it over the side of the bucket.

4. Continue stirring and adding more acid and more lime until the chemicals are no longer fizzing. Once all the acid has been neutralized, it can be disposed of safely.

Tips & Warnings

• You should wear a respirator or mask while neutralizing muriatic acid to avoid breathing in fumes.

References

• The Natural Handyman: Muriatic Acid and Cleaning Masonry Surfaces