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How to remove oil stains

A patch of oil underneath a car on a driveway
Finding it impossible to remove oil stains from your driveway or garage floor? If so, we’ve got a few ideas that may help shift those stains for good.

Small stains

There is a good chance that small, relatively new oil stains can be removed with hot water, detergent and a steel brush. Simply apply the detergent and scrub with a steel brush, clean with water then repeat if necessary.

Large stains

For stubborn existing oil stains, you’ll need a degreaser. These powerful, concentrated, cleaners remove ingrained dirt, grease and oil deposits and most automotive fluids without damaging the surface. And, best of all, they work fast.

All degreasers will have application instructions for you to follow. Most importantly, be sure to wear the correct protective wear, especially gloves and goggles.

How to remove oil stains with a degreaser

1. Apply the recommended amount of driveway degreaser to the affected area (refer to product instructions for the recommended amount; for lighter duty cleaning, dilute the product with up to five parts water)

2. Leave for 1–3 minutes (for heavily soiled areas leave the driveway degreaser on the area a little longer before washing but do not allow the product to dry completely)

3. Work vigorously with a stiff or steel brush

4. Leave for 5–10 minutes

5. Wash away with water

Any oil spot that has penetrated the substrate may re-surface within 24 hours following cleaning, if so, repeat the process.

Get your home looking spotless

We've got plenty more cleaning tips to help you get your home in tip-top shape.

 

Health & Safety

Please make sure you use all equipment appropriately and safely when following the advice in these D.I.Y. videos. You need to be familiar with how to use equipment safely and follow the instructions that came with the equipment. If you are unsure, you may feel it is safest to consult an expert, such as the manufacturer or an expert Bunnings Team Member.

Grave health hazards are linked to asbestos, which may be in homes built up to 1990. Health hazards may result from exposure to lead-based paints in older materials and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer.