You walk outside to grab the mail, and there it is an ugly, dark grease stain ruining the look of your driveway. Whether your car has been leaking oil or leftovers from your trash can have dripped onto the pavement, these stains can make even the cleanest home exterior look messy.

The good news? You can remove grease stains from your driveway quickly using common household items. Because concrete is porous, acting like a sponge for liquids, it’s crucial to tackle the stain before it sets deeply. Acting fast can make all the difference between a temporary blemish and a permanent eyesore.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get grease stains off your driveway using tried-and-true cleaning methods all simple, affordable, and surprisingly effective.

Best Ways to Remove Grease Stains on Your Driveway

When it comes to driveway grease removal, you don’t always need professional cleaners or harsh chemicals. Many powerful solutions can be found right in your home. Below are the most effective DIY methods for cleaning oil and grease stains from concrete driveways.

1. The Coca-Cola Technique

Coca-Cola isn’t just a refreshing beverage it’s also an effective grease remover. Thanks to its mild acidity, Coke can help lift oil and grime from porous surfaces like concrete.

How to use Coca-Cola for grease stain removal:

  1. Blot up any excess oil with paper towels or an old rag.

  2. Pour a few cans of Coca-Cola directly over the grease stain.

  3. Let it sit overnight to allow the soda’s acidic properties to break down the oil.

  4. The next day, rinse thoroughly with water and scrub lightly if needed.

This easy method can work wonders for newer stains and leaves your driveway looking much cleaner.

2. The WD-40 Technique

WD-40 isn’t just for squeaky hinges it’s also a handy cleaner for driveway stains. The lubricant’s solvent properties help dissolve fresh grease and oil deposits.

Steps to remove grease with WD-40:

  1. Spray a generous amount of WD-40 directly onto the stained area.

  2. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to loosen the grease.

  3. Rinse thoroughly with warm water.

  4. For tougher stains, repeat the process or follow up with a detergent scrub.

WD-40’s quick action makes it ideal for emergency clean-ups when you notice a fresh oil leak.

3. The Kitty Litter Technique

Believe it or not, cheap clay-based kitty litter is one of the best absorbents for driveway grease. The porous clay particles draw out oil from the concrete, making this a simple yet effective solution.

How to clean with kitty litter:

  1. Blot up excess oil with paper towels.

  2. Spread a thick layer of unscented, non-clumping clay litter over the stain.

  3. Step on it gently or press it with a broom to help it absorb the oil.

  4. Leave it overnight or at least for 8–12 hours.

  5. Sweep or vacuum up the litter the next day and rinse the area.

For stubborn stains, you can repeat the process or follow up with baking soda for a deeper clean.

4. The Baking Soda Technique

Baking soda is one of the most versatile cleaning agents available, and it works incredibly well for lifting grease stains off your driveway. Its mild abrasiveness and absorbent properties make it ideal for concrete cleaning.

Follow these steps for best results:

  1. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda directly on the stain.

  2. Use a stiff wire brush to scrub the area in circular motions.

  3. Let the baking soda sit for about 30 minutes to absorb the grease.

  4. Rinse the area thoroughly with water.

For older or tougher stains, mix baking soda with a bit of dish soap and scrub again before rinsing.

5. The Detergent Technique

Powdered laundry detergent is another powerful cleaner for driveway stains. It helps break down grease molecules and can penetrate concrete effectively when applied properly.

Steps to clean grease stains using detergent:

  1. Sprinkle powdered laundry detergent on the stained area.

  2. Add a small amount of warm water to form a paste.

  3. Scrub the mixture with a wire brush for several minutes.

  4. Let it sit for 30 minutes to break down the grease.

  5. Rinse thoroughly with a garden hose.

This method is excellent for both fresh and lingering stains, and most households already have detergent on hand.

Pro Tips for Preventing Future Driveway Stains

  • Park over a drip tray or mat if your car tends to leak oil.

  • Clean up spills immediately before they have a chance to soak into the concrete.

  • Seal your driveway every few years to make it less porous and easier to clean.

  • Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage your concrete or surrounding plants.

Conclusion

Driveway grease stains don’t have to be a permanent problem. With a little effort and everyday household items like Coca-Cola, WD-40, baking soda, detergent, or kitty litter, you can restore your driveway’s clean, fresh look. The key is to act quickly, scrub thoroughly, and repeat as needed until the stain disappears.

Keep your driveway spotless, and your home’s curb appeal will thank you.