How to Clean Leaf Stains from Cement

Stained concrete can be cleaned without power washing.

Cement concrete is the primary material used for porches, walkways and patios due to its reasonable cost, durability and ability to be molded into almost any shape. While concrete is low-maintenance, it is susceptible to stains from many substances, including leaf stains caused by the natural tannins that seep from wet leaves. These stains do not affect the material's durability, but they do create an unsightly appearance. You can clean leaf stains from cement with a variety of treatments.

Things You'll Need

• Bleaching detergent
• Bleach
• Laundry detergent
• Trisodium phosphate
• Muriatic acid
• Broom or nylon scrub brush
• Gloves
• Eye protection

Instructions

1. Mix enough water with a bleaching detergent such as OxiClean to make a paste. Apply it to the leaf stains on the concrete and scrub with a broom or stiff-bristled nylon brush. Rinse well with warm water.

2. Add a quart of bleach to three quarts of water, then add one-third cup of laundry detergent. Pour the mixture on the stains and let it stand for about five minutes before scrubbing. Rinse the area thoroughly with water.

3. Mix one cup of trisodium phosphate with one gallon of hot water. Apply to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing and rinsing well. Use gloves and eye protection to prevent eye damage and skin burns.

4. Try a solution of one part muriatic acid to nine parts water as a last resort. Apply it to the stain and let it sit for five to 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with water. Wear rubber gloves and eye protection when using this acid, as it is very caustic.

Tips & Warnings

• Since you can end up with noticeably cleaner spots when using these methods of stain removal, clean the entire concrete area with one of the first two steps for best overall results.

• Keep any runoff from trisodium phosphate or muriatic acid away from wood, metal, plants and painted surfaces, as it can cause damage. Any foliage that could be exposed needs to be soaked before using the chemicals and thoroughly rinsed afterward.

References

• On the House: Leaf Stains from Concrete
• Concrete Network: How to Remove Leaf Stains from Concrete
• SchmitzMix.com: FAQs About "Aftercare" for Concrete
• The Natural Handyman: Trisodium Phosphate