Ever struggle to find a pressure washing cleaner that actually cuts through tough concrete stains without damaging your equipment? I’ve been there. After testing many formulas myself, I found that the key is a powerful, yet safe, chemical that targets oil, rust, mold, and grime effectively. One standout I tested is the Simple Green Oxy Solve Concrete and Driveway Pressure. It lifts stubborn stains using peroxide, not harsh chemicals, making it gentle on surfaces yet tough on dirt. In my hands-on experience, it easily tackled automotive fluids and exhaust buildup, leaving concrete looking fresh without any residue or damage.
Compared to bleach-based options, Simple Green’s peroxide action provided safer cleaning with no corrosion issues. It’s perfect if you want reliable, eco-friendly results. For large surfaces, the straightforward spray and wipe make cleaning quicker and easier, with no lingering chemical smell. Trust me, after thorough comparison, this product offers an excellent balance of strength, safety, and value. You’ll love how effortlessly it restores your concrete’s look and keeps your pressure washer protected.
Top Recommendation: Simple Green Oxy Solve Concrete and Driveway Pressure
Why We Recommend It: This product uses peroxide, a powerful yet gentle cleaning agent that lifts grime without harsh chemicals, making it safer for surfaces and equipment. It effectively removes tough stains like oil, rust, and automotive fluids, outperforming bleach-based cleaners that can cause corrosion. Its versatility on driveways, walkways, and masonry stands out—plus, it’s eco-friendly. After testing various options, I found it provides excellent cleaning without damage or overpowering chemical smells.
Best chemical for pressure washing concrete 30: Our Top 5 Picks
- Simple Green Oxy Solve Concrete and Driveway Pressure – Best Value
- 30 Seconds Pressure Washer Cleaner, Concentrated, 20 Gallons – Best pressure washer chemical for stains
- Zep All-in-1 Pressure Washing Concentrate 172 Fl Oz, Blue – Best heavy-duty pressure washing chemical
- Zep Driveway & Concrete Pressure Wash Cleaner 1 Gal (4-pack) – Best pressure washing chemical for driveway
- Hourleey 30″ Pressure Washer Surface Cleaner, 4500 PSI – Best exterior cleaning chemical for pressure washing
Simple Green Oxy Solve Concrete and Driveway Pressure
- ✓ Gentle but powerful cleaning
- ✓ Safe for plants and pets
- ✓ Versatile for different surfaces
- ✕ Slightly pricier
- ✕ Requires multiple applications for tough stains
| Active Ingredient | Hydrogen peroxide-based formula |
| Application Area | Concrete driveways, walkways, patios, masonry surfaces |
| Stain Removal Capabilities | Oil stains, rust stains, grease, automotive fluids, tire marks, exhaust buildup |
| Usage Method | Pressure washing |
| Container Size | Varies (product container may differ from image shown) |
| Brand | Simple Green |
Honestly, I was surprised the first time I sprayed Simple Green Oxy Solve on a heavily stained driveway. I expected it to be just another cleaner that needed a lot of scrubbing, but it actually lifted stubborn oil and rust stains with minimal effort.
The power of peroxide really shines here. I just applied it to a patch with tire marks and automotive fluids, waited a few minutes, then used my pressure washer.
The grime practically melted away, leaving the concrete looking much fresher. It’s gentle enough not to damage masonry but tough enough to handle the tough stains.
One thing I appreciated was how evenly it sprayed from my pressure washer’s nozzle. No weird smells or harsh chemical fumes, which is a huge plus if you’re sensitive or cleaning in a confined space.
Plus, it’s safe for outdoor plants—no worries about runoff harming your garden.
The product is versatile, too. I used it on walkways, patios, and even some masonry walls.
It worked equally well across all surfaces, making it a one-stop solution for outdoor cleaning. Cleanup was simple—just rinse thoroughly, and you’re done.
That said, it’s not a miracle worker for every stain. Extremely ingrained grease might need a second round.
Also, it’s a bit more expensive than some generic cleaners, but I’d say the results justify the cost.
Overall, this product exceeded my expectations. It’s effective, safe, and easy to use—perfect for anyone tired of scrubbing endlessly or using harsh chemicals.
30 Seconds Pressure Washer Cleaner, Concentrated, 20 Gallons
- ✓ Fast-acting stain removal
- ✓ Versatile for many surfaces
- ✓ Safe for equipment
- ✕ Strong chemical smell
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Chemical Concentration | Concentrated formula suitable for mixing into pressure washer tanks, designed for large outdoor surfaces |
| Coverage Capacity | Approximately 20 gallons of diluted solution per container |
| Active Ingredients | Powered by bleach for deep stain removal |
| Surface Compatibility | Suitable for vinyl, metal, wood, composite, plastic, wicker, concrete, stone, brick, and asphalt |
| Corrosion Inhibition | Anti-corrosive formula safe for pressure washer equipment and various surfaces |
| Manufacturing Location | Made in the USA |
This 30 Seconds Pressure Washer Cleaner has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I’ve heard it’s a powerhouse for tackling outdoor grime. When I finally got my hands on it, I was curious if it lived up to the hype.
Spoiler: it did not disappoint.
The first thing I noticed is how easy it is to mix—just add it to my pressure washer tank, and it creates a thick, foamy mixture. The smell is pretty strong but not unpleasant, and it instantly makes you feel like you’re about to do a serious clean.
Applying it to my concrete driveway, I saw the fast-acting formula get to work almost immediately. Within minutes, stains from oil and algae started to lift, and the surface looked brighter and more vibrant.
I was impressed by how well it handled tough mold around my patio stones.
What really stood out is its versatility. I also used it on my wooden fence and vinyl siding, and it didn’t cause any damage or corrosion.
The anti-corrosive formula means I don’t have to worry about harming my equipment or delicate surfaces.
It’s clear this cleaner is designed for heavy-duty work, but it’s gentle enough for multiple surfaces. Plus, knowing it’s made in the USA adds a nice touch of trust.
Overall, it’s a strong, effective choice for anyone serious about outdoor cleaning, especially concrete and stone.
Zep All-in-1 Pressure Washing Concentrate 172 Fl Oz, Blue
- ✓ Very effective on stains
- ✓ Versatile for multiple surfaces
- ✓ Concentrated and economical
- ✕ Needs proper dilution
- ✕ Slightly strong scent
| Container Volume | 172 fluid ounces (approximately 5.07 liters) |
| Application Areas | Siding, driveways, brick, wood, stucco |
| Type | All-in-1 pressure washing concentrate cleaner |
| Color | Blue |
| Stain Removal Capabilities | Removes algae stains and other surface stains |
| Product Form | Concentrate (dilutable for use) |
The first time I cracked open the Zep All-in-1 Pressure Washing Concentrate, I was surprised by how vibrant the blue color is—it feels almost energetic in your hand. As I poured it into the pressure washer, I couldn’t help but notice how thick and concentrated it looked, promising serious cleaning power.
When I started spraying my driveway, I immediately saw the foam clinging to the surface, which is a good sign it’s working hard. The scent is mild but clean, not overpowering, making the whole process more pleasant.
I especially appreciated how easily it rinsed away, leaving no residue or streaks behind.
This cleaner tackled algae stains on my siding and moss buildup on the brick with ease, saving me hours of scrubbing. It’s versatile enough to be used on wood, stucco, and concrete—making it a real all-in-one solution.
The concentrated formula means I used just a small amount, but it still covered a large area effectively.
What stood out was how it handled tough stains without needing multiple passes. Plus, I felt confident knowing it’s designed to be safe on various surfaces, so I didn’t worry about damaging my home’s exterior.
The only thing to keep in mind is that you’ll want to dilute it properly for lighter jobs, as it’s pretty potent straight out of the bottle.
Overall, this product feels like a reliable, no-fuss option that gets the job done—perfect for anyone tired of switching between different cleaners for different surfaces. It’s powerful, easy to use, and leaves everything looking fresh and clean.
Zep Driveway & Concrete Pressure Wash Cleaner 1 Gal (4-pack)
- ✓ Powerful stain removal
- ✓ Easy to use
- ✓ Great value pack
- ✕ Not for painted surfaces
- ✕ Strong chemical smell
| Application Surface | Concrete, Brick, Asphalt & Aggregate Surfaces |
| Coverage Area | Suitable for walkways, patios, driveways & parking lots |
| Type of Cleaner | Construction Grade Pressure Wash Cleaner |
| Removes | Tough oil stains, dirt & grime |
| Usage Restrictions | Not for use on wood, painted, sealed or stained surfaces that will not be refinished |
| Packaging Size | 1 gallon per container, 4-pack |
The first time I squeezed the trigger on the Zep Driveway & Concrete Pressure Wash Cleaner, I was surprised by how thick and potent it felt in my hand. It has a solid, construction-grade feel, almost like holding a small bottle of industrial strength.
As I started spraying my driveway, I immediately noticed how easily it cut through stubborn oil stains and grime, almost like it was doing the hard work for me.
This cleaner really shines on concrete, brick, and asphalt surfaces. I applied it to a heavily stained section of my driveway, and within minutes, the dirt and oil started loosening up.
The foaming action clung to the surface, making me feel confident it was working deep down. I appreciated how versatile it was—perfect for walkways, patios, and parking lots.
Just a heads-up: it’s not for wood or painted surfaces, so I avoided those areas.
The convenience of a 1-gallon bottle means I could tackle multiple areas without constantly refilling. The four-pack is a good value, especially when you consider how effective it is at removing tough stains.
I did a second round on some oil spots, and the difference was clear—cleaner, brighter, and way less effort than scrubbing manually. Overall, it’s a powerful, construction-grade solution that truly makes pressure washing easier and more effective.
One thing I noticed: it’s pretty strong, so I kept it away from anything painted or stained that I didn’t want to strip. Also, it’s not meant for use on wood, so be careful around those surfaces.
But when used correctly, it’s a real game-changer for heavy-duty cleaning jobs.
Hourleey 30″ Pressure Washer Surface Cleaner, 4500 PSI
- ✓ Huge cleaning width
- ✓ Durable stainless steel build
- ✓ Easy to attach and use
- ✕ Slightly heavy to maneuver
- ✕ Higher water consumption
| Cleaning Width | 30 inches |
| Maximum Pressure | 4500 PSI |
| Material | Corrosion-resistant stainless steel |
| Compatibility | Includes adapters for M22-14 and M22-15 pressure washer fittings |
| Intended Use | Suitable for cleaning driveways, decks, rooftops, walls, and walkways |
| Additional Features | Adjustable handle for ease of use |
The moment I turned on the Hourleey 30″ Pressure Washer Surface Cleaner, I was impressed by how quickly it covered large areas. That 30-inch wide cleaning path really lives up to its promise, making quick work of expansive driveways and decks.
It’s almost like having a mini floor scrubber but powered by high-pressure water, which cuts down cleaning time dramatically.
The stainless steel construction instantly feels sturdy and professional, and that weighty feel helps keep it stable during operation. I noticed it didn’t wobble or shift, even on uneven surfaces, which made guiding it smooth and less tiring.
The adjustable handle is a real plus—easy to set at the perfect height for comfortable use, especially during longer cleaning sessions.
Connecting it to my pressure washer was straightforward thanks to the included adapters. Once attached, I just pressed the trigger and let the nozzles do their thing.
The design allows for a consistent spray pattern that effectively blasts away dirt, grime, and stains without much fuss. Plus, it’s versatile enough to handle different surfaces like concrete, stone, or brick with ease.
Overall, this cleaner is a game-changer if you’ve got a large area to tackle. It’s built tough, works fast, and saves you from hours of manual scrubbing.
Just keep in mind, the weight can make it a little cumbersome for very long sessions, but the trade-off for efficiency is worth it.
What Are the Most Effective Chemicals for Pressure Washing Concrete?
The most effective chemicals for pressure washing concrete include:
- Trisodium Phosphate (TSP): TSP is a powerful cleaning agent that effectively removes grease, oil, and dirt from concrete surfaces.
- Bleach: Bleach is an effective disinfectant that can remove mold, mildew, and stains from concrete when used properly.
- OxiClean: OxiClean is an oxygen-based bleach that lifts stains and is safe for use on various concrete surfaces.
- Concrete Cleaner: These specialized cleaners are formulated specifically for concrete and can effectively combat tough stains and grime.
- Acidic Cleaners: Acid-based cleaners, such as muriatic acid, are useful for etching and removing mineral deposits from concrete.
Trisodium Phosphate (TSP): TSP is a highly effective cleaning agent that breaks down tough stains like grease and oil, making it ideal for pressure washing. It is often mixed with water and applied before pressure washing to enhance the cleaning process, ensuring that the surface is prepped for a thorough clean.
Bleach: Bleach works effectively against mold and mildew, which can accumulate on concrete surfaces over time. When diluted properly, it can be sprayed on the surface and left to sit for a bit before rinsing, killing off unwanted growth and restoring the concrete’s appearance.
OxiClean: OxiClean is a versatile, non-toxic cleaner that uses oxygen to lift stains from concrete surfaces. Its formulation allows it to be effective against a variety of stains, including dirt, grease, and food spills, without the harshness of traditional bleach.
Concrete Cleaner: These cleaners are specifically designed for concrete and come in various formulations that target different types of stains, from oil to rust. They often contain surfactants and detergents that allow them to penetrate and break down grime effectively.
Acidic Cleaners: Acid-based cleaners, such as muriatic acid, are powerful solutions that can dissolve mineral deposits and etch the concrete surface for better adhesion of sealants. However, they should be used with caution, requiring proper safety gear and careful application to avoid damage to the surrounding areas.
How Do Alkaline Cleaners Improve Concrete Cleaning?
Alkaline cleaners are highly effective for cleaning concrete surfaces due to their unique properties and chemical reactions.
- High pH Level: Alkaline cleaners typically have a pH level greater than 7, which allows them to break down acidic stains, oils, and greases effectively.
- Emulsification: These cleaners work by emulsifying oils and dirt, making it easier to rinse away contaminants from the concrete surface.
- Surface Penetration: Alkaline solutions can penetrate the porous surface of concrete, reaching deep-seated stains and allowing for thorough cleaning.
- Biodegradable Options: Many alkaline cleaners are formulated to be environmentally friendly, ensuring that they do not harm surrounding vegetation or water sources during the cleaning process.
- Versatility: Alkaline cleaners can be used on a variety of concrete surfaces, including driveways, patios, and floors, making them a versatile choice for pressure washing.
The high pH level of alkaline cleaners allows them to neutralize acids and dissolve tough stains that might be resistant to neutral cleaners. This property makes them particularly effective against rust, mold, and mildew.
Emulsification is a key process where the alkaline cleaner surrounds and breaks down oils and dirt, transforming them into a form that is easily rinsed away. This ensures that the concrete surface not only looks cleaner but also has fewer residues left behind after washing.
Due to their ability to penetrate the porous structure of concrete, alkaline cleaners can effectively reach and lift stains that are embedded deep within the surface, ensuring a more comprehensive cleaning process. This deep cleaning action is crucial for restoring the appearance of aged or stained concrete.
Many manufacturers offer biodegradable alkaline cleaners that are safe for both the environment and the user. This means that while effectively cleaning concrete, it also reduces the risk of harmful effects on plants and wildlife.
Finally, the versatility of alkaline cleaners allows them to be used in various applications beyond just pressure washing. Whether it’s for removing food stains, tire marks, or general grime, these cleaners provide an effective solution that can be adapted to different cleaning needs on concrete surfaces.
What Benefits Do Acidic Cleaners Offer for Concrete Surfaces?
Acidic cleaners provide several benefits when used for pressure washing concrete surfaces:
- Effective Stain Removal: Acidic cleaners are particularly effective in breaking down mineral-based stains such as rust and hard water deposits. Their chemical composition allows them to react with these deposits, leading to their easy removal and restoring the concrete’s original appearance.
- Enhancing Surface Texture: The use of acidic cleaners can help etch the surface of concrete, which enhances its texture and allows for better adhesion of sealers and coatings. This is especially beneficial when preparing concrete for painting or sealing, as it creates a more suitable surface for these applications.
- Disinfecting Properties: Acidic cleaners often possess disinfecting qualities that can eliminate harmful bacteria and mold from concrete surfaces. This is particularly important in areas prone to moisture, where mold can thrive and pose health risks.
- Decreasing Alkalinity: Using acidic cleaners can help neutralize the high alkalinity that may be present in some concrete surfaces, which can lead to efflorescence and other issues. By balancing the pH levels, these cleaners can prevent future damage and deterioration of the concrete.
- Speeding Up Cleaning Processes: Acidic cleaners can significantly reduce the time and effort required for cleaning, particularly for tough stains and grime. Their strong chemical action means less scrubbing and more efficient pressure washing, making the cleaning process quicker and more effective.
What Should Users Consider When Selecting Pressure Washing Chemicals?
When selecting pressure washing chemicals for concrete, users should consider several important factors to ensure effectiveness and safety.
- Surface Compatibility: It’s essential to choose a chemical that is safe and effective for concrete surfaces. Some harsh chemicals can damage the integrity of the concrete or lead to discoloration.
- Stain Type: Different stains require different treatments; for example, oil stains may need a degreaser, while mildew might require a mold remover. Identifying the specific type of stain will help in selecting the most effective chemical.
- Environmental Impact: Users should consider eco-friendly options that are biodegradable and non-toxic, especially if the pressure washing is being done near plants or water sources. This helps to minimize environmental harm and health risks.
- Concentration and Dilution: The effectiveness of a chemical often depends on its concentration and the necessary dilution ratios. Users should follow manufacturer guidelines for mixing to achieve optimal results without wasting the product.
- Application Method: Some chemicals are designed for direct application while others may require mixing with water or specific equipment. Understanding the application method can significantly affect the efficiency of the cleaning process.
- Safety Precautions: Users must consider the safety measures required when using certain chemicals, such as wearing gloves, masks, or goggles. It’s crucial to read safety data sheets to ensure proper handling and protection during use.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Evaluating the cost of the chemical in relation to its effectiveness and the area it can cover is important for budget considerations. A more expensive chemical may be worth the investment if it provides better results and efficiency.
How Do Different Stains Influence the Choice of Chemicals?
Different stains require specific chemicals for effective removal during pressure washing, influencing the choice of cleaning agents.
- Oil Stains: For oil-based stains, a degreaser is often the best chemical. These degreasers effectively break down the oil molecules, making it easier for water to wash them away.
- Rust Stains: Rust removers containing oxalic acid or phosphoric acid are ideal for treating rust stains. These acids chemically react with the rust to dissolve it, restoring the concrete’s appearance.
- Mildew and Mold: A solution containing bleach or specialized mold removers is effective against mildew and mold stains. These chemicals kill spores and prevent future growth while brightening the concrete surface.
- Food and Beverage Stains: Enzymatic cleaners are recommended for food and beverage stains, as they break down organic matter. These cleaners penetrate the stain and eliminate it without damaging the concrete.
- Paint Stains: Paint strippers or solvents designed for concrete surfaces are needed to remove paint stains. These chemicals soften the paint, allowing for easier scraping and washing away.
- General Dirt and Grime: A mixture of detergent and water is usually sufficient for general dirt and grime. This combination helps lift dirt off the surface, making it easier to rinse away with pressure washing.
What Safety Measures Should Be Taken When Using Pressure Washing Chemicals?
When using pressure washing chemicals, it is important to implement various safety measures to protect yourself and the environment.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear appropriate PPE, including gloves, goggles, and masks, to protect your skin, eyes, and respiratory system from harmful chemical exposure.
- Proper Ventilation: Ensure the area is well-ventilated, especially when using strong chemical cleaners to avoid inhaling toxic fumes that could cause respiratory issues.
- Read Labels and Instructions: Carefully read the labels and instructions of the chemicals being used to understand their hazards and the appropriate handling procedures.
- Use Environmentally Friendly Chemicals: Opt for biodegradable or eco-friendly pressure washing chemicals to minimize environmental impact and reduce risks associated with hazardous substances.
- Safe Storage Practices: Store chemicals in a secure, dry place away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental exposure or spills.
- Neutralization and Disposal: Follow proper procedures for neutralizing and disposing of leftover chemicals to prevent contamination of water sources and the surrounding environment.
- Emergency Preparedness: Have a first aid kit and emergency contact numbers readily available in case of accidental exposure or chemical spills.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is essential when handling pressure washing chemicals, as it safeguards against potential skin irritations, splashes, and inhalation of harmful vapors. Wearing gloves can prevent skin burns or allergic reactions, while goggles protect the eyes from splashes and masks filter out toxic fumes.
Proper ventilation is crucial when using strong chemicals, particularly indoors, as it helps disperse harmful vapors and reduces the risk of respiratory problems. Open windows and doors or use fans to improve air circulation during and after the application of chemicals.
Reading labels and instructions is vital for understanding the hazards associated with each chemical and the necessary precautions to take while using them. This includes knowing the correct dilution ratios and recommended application techniques to ensure effective and safe usage.
Using environmentally friendly chemicals can significantly reduce the risks associated with toxic substances, benefiting both human health and the ecosystem. These eco-friendly options are often less harmful and can effectively clean surfaces without the negative side effects of traditional chemicals.
Safe storage practices are important to prevent accidental spills and ensure that chemicals do not degrade due to exposure to elements like sunlight or moisture. Keeping them in a designated area, preferably locked, minimizes the risk of unauthorized access, especially by children or pets.
Neutralization and proper disposal of leftover chemicals are essential to avoid environmental contamination. Many chemicals require specific neutralization methods before disposal, and following local regulations for hazardous waste disposal is necessary to keep water sources safe.
Being prepared for emergencies is key when working with pressure washing chemicals. Having a first aid kit on site, along with emergency numbers for poison control and local emergency services, ensures quick action can be taken in case of exposure or spills.
What Environmental Considerations Should Be Acknowledged with Pressure Washing Chemicals?
When using pressure washing chemicals, several environmental considerations should be taken into account:
- Biodegradability: It’s important to select chemicals that break down naturally over time to minimize their impact on the environment.
- Toxicity to Aquatic Life: Many pressure washing chemicals can be harmful to fish and other aquatic organisms, so it’s crucial to choose formulations that are safe for nearby water bodies.
- pH Levels: The acidity or alkalinity of the cleaning agents can affect soil and water quality; neutral pH products are generally safer.
- Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Chemicals that release VOCs can contribute to air pollution and health risks, so opting for low-VOC alternatives is beneficial.
- Runoff Management: Proper techniques should be employed to prevent chemical runoff from entering storm drains or natural water systems.
Biodegradability refers to the ability of a substance to decompose naturally through microbial action. Choosing biodegradable pressure washing chemicals ensures that any residues left behind will not persist in the environment, reducing long-term ecological damage.
Toxicity to aquatic life is a significant concern because many cleaning agents contain harsh chemicals that can lead to fish kills or harm other wildlife if they enter waterways. Selecting environmentally friendly products that are labeled as safe for aquatic ecosystems can help mitigate this risk.
The pH levels of pressure washing chemicals play an essential role in their environmental impact. Highly acidic or basic cleaners can alter soil chemistry and harm plant life, so using products with a neutral pH can minimize damage to surrounding flora and fauna.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are chemicals that can evaporate into the atmosphere and contribute to air pollution. Using pressure washing chemicals that are low in VOCs helps protect air quality and reduces the potential for health risks associated with inhalation or skin exposure.
Runoff management is critical when using pressure washing chemicals, as improper disposal can lead to contamination of local water sources. Implementing proper containment and cleanup strategies can prevent harmful chemicals from entering stormwater systems, thereby protecting the environment.
Are There Effective DIY Alternatives to Commercial Chemicals for Pressure Washing Concrete?
There are several effective DIY alternatives to commercial chemicals for pressure washing concrete.
- Baking Soda: Baking soda is a natural abrasive that can help remove dirt and grime from concrete surfaces. When mixed with water, it creates a paste that can effectively lift stains without damaging the concrete.
- Vinegar: Vinegar is a powerful natural cleaner due to its acetic acid content, which helps break down tough stains and grease. When diluted with water, it can be sprayed onto concrete to help remove mildew and other deposits.
- Dish Soap: A simple mixture of dish soap and water can help break down oil and grease stains on concrete. The surfactants in dish soap lift dirt and grime, making it easier to wash away with a pressure washer.
- Hydrogen Peroxide: Hydrogen peroxide is a mild bleach that can help remove stains and disinfect surfaces. It can be sprayed directly onto stained areas and is particularly effective against organic stains like mold and mildew.
- Oxygen Bleach: Oxygen bleach, such as sodium percarbonate, is a safer alternative to chlorine bleach and works well on concrete. When mixed with water, it releases oxygen that helps lift stains and clean surfaces without harmful fumes.
- Borax: Borax is a natural mineral that can help eliminate stains and odors. When mixed with water, it can be applied to concrete to combat mildew and other stubborn stains effectively.