How to Clean Oil Off a Driveway

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Decide what kind of oil cleaning method you want to use.

   Depending on what kind of stain you have, you might use different methods for cleaning the oil off your driveway.
   
   If you have an oil stain that is still fresh or if you have a small and stubborn stain, you may want to use the poultice method to get out your stain.
   
   If your stain is small, you can use a common household detergent method to remove the stain.
   
   If your stain is large, you may want to buy a degreaser or a microbial cleaner to remove the oil.
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   Step 2: Purchase or get out any materials you need for the job.

   You can buy all the following materials from Home Depot, Lowes, online or at your local hardware store.
   
   Depending on what kind of stain you have or the method you are using, you will have to get different materials.
   
   For small stains you will need: 1) a detergent (baking soda, vinegar, soap, dish or laundry detergent) 2) a bucket or pot and hose for water 3) a steel brush or stiff brush with stiff bristles If you have a small, hard to remove stain use the poultice method: 1) kitty litter 2) acetone, lacquer thinner, or xylene 3) a sheet of plastic slightly larger than the size of your stain 4) a steel brush or stiff brush with stiff bristles For larger stains you will need: 1) a degreaser or microbial cleaner (buy online)2) a bucket or hose for water 3) a steel brush or stiff brush with stiff bristlesIf you have fresh stains or anticipate further oil leaks, consider buying a bag of baking soda or kitty litter to keep in your garage to use in the future. , Wear goggles or eye protection to shield your eyes from the chemicals.
   
   Find chemical resistant gloves at a superstore or hardware store to wear while you scrub.
   
   Additionally, wear overalls you would use for working on a car if you have them.
   
   Or you can wear clothes that cover your arms and legs and that you don’t mind getting stained or dirty., Keep your pets and kids inside while you work.
   
   In case of any accidents, have the number of poison control written down or recorded in your phone.
   
   You can call poison control 24 hours a day, 7 days a week- the number for poison control is: 1 (800) 222-1222. , Prior to cleaning the pavement wash off any dirt and debris that is in the way of the oil stain on your driveway.
   
   However, do not use a high pressure hose to clean off the affected area, because you could end up pushing the oil deeper into the pavement.
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   Step 3: Wear protective clothing and gear if you are using degreasers.

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   Step 4: Locate the number of poison control and keep pets or small children away from chemicals.

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   Step 5: Clean the area with oil stains with water from a hose or bucket.

Detailed Guide

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