If you’re hosting guests and want your driveway to impress, we have a solution to remove stubborn stains. Particularly effective against oil and rust marks, this trick utilizes an item you may already have in your cupboard: baking soda.
According to Georgina Read, an expert at Paving Superstore, baking soda can effortlessly remove unsightly marks and grime from your driveway. She emphasizes the importance of acting quickly to prevent stains from setting in. Avoid using bleach, lemon juice, or white vinegar on certain patio stones, as they can cause bleaching and damage.
For grease or oil stains, apply washing-up liquid and warm water directly to the stain and gently scrub with a brush or cloth. If the stain persists, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda onto it. Its natural abrasive properties will help lift the grease from the surface. Use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub in a circular motion, applying ample pressure to work the baking soda and washing-up liquid into the stain.
Once rubbed in, thoroughly rinse the area with clean water. Repeat the process if necessary. Baking soda also effectively removes rust stains. Create a paste of baking soda and water, apply it to the stain, and let it penetrate for a few minutes before scrubbing it away. For stubborn rust stains, consider using a specialized rust removal product.
To prevent future stains, seal your natural stone and concrete paving with a specialist impregnator sealer. This penetrates the stone, filling tiny capillaries and preventing stains from soaking in. Baking soda can be purchased at various high-street shops and supermarkets for less than £2 for a large box. Combined with washing-up liquid, this cleaning solution costs under 50p.