Learn how to clean rust off your concrete slab, driveway, or walkway.

Luckily, it’s possible to remove rust from concrete.

Take the following steps to remove rust stains from your concrete.

Splattered rust stains on concrete

The Spruce / Sarah Lee

Use a hose orpressure washerto rinse the concrete after washing, then let the concrete dry before proceeding.

Apply Rust-Stain Removal Solution

Apply the rust-stain removal solution when the concrete is clean and dry.

Choose an appropriaterust removerbased on the severity of the stain.

Materials and tools to remove rust stains from concrete

The Spruce / Sarah Lee

Warning

Tri-sodium phosphate (TSP) is toxic.

Take care not to swallow, inhale, or spill large amounts on your skin.

Take caution when using hydrochloric/muriatic acid.

Concrete floor washed and scrubbed with dish soap and water and scrub brush

The Spruce / Sarah Lee

Inhalation can cause irritation to the respiratory tract, leading to pulmonary edema.

This jot down of brush will help to scrub the rust stain away without damaging the concrete.

Additionally, you’re free to have the gutter system inspected for leaks.

Lemon juice poured over rust stain on concrete

The Spruce / Sarah Lee

see to it to only use non-corroding bar supports when you are laying your concrete.

Yes, a pressure washer can help remove rust off concrete.

However, stubborn stains may require an acid-based cleaner or detergent.

Scrub brush removing rust stain from concrete

The Spruce / Sarah Lee

Bleach will not work on concrete rust.

It can actually make rust stains worse due to the oxidative properties of bleach.

It’s better to remove the stain first before painting over.

Garden hose running water over concrete floor to rinse

The Spruce / Sarah Lee

Paint won’t adhere to the rust and that can bleed through the paint.

Hydrochloric Acid (Hydrogen Chloride).Environmental Protection Agency.