Sprinkle baking soda liberally onto the oil stain, scrub vigorously with a stiff brush, let it sit for about 30 minutes, and then rinse it away thoroughly with a hose.
Here's a more detailed guide to effectively cleaning up oil spills on asphalt:
Steps to Clean Oil from Asphalt
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Contain the Spill (If Applicable): If the spill is fresh and still spreading, use absorbent materials like paper towels, rags, or kitty litter to contain it.
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Apply Absorbent Material: Generously cover the oil stain with an absorbent material. Baking soda is a great option because it's readily available and effective. Other options include:
- Kitty litter (clay-based is best)
- Sawdust
- Commercial oil absorbents
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Scrub Thoroughly: Using a stiff-bristled brush (a deck brush works well), scrub the absorbent material into the oil stain. Apply firm pressure and use a circular motion to lift the oil from the asphalt pores.
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Let it Sit: Allow the absorbent material to sit on the stain for at least 30 minutes. For older or more stubborn stains, you may need to let it sit for several hours, or even overnight. This allows the absorbent to draw out as much oil as possible.
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Sweep or Vacuum Up: Sweep up the used absorbent material with a broom and dustpan. You can also use a shop vacuum for this purpose. Dispose of the used absorbent material properly, as it is now considered oily waste. Check your local regulations for proper disposal methods.
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Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the area with a garden hose. A pressure washer can also be used for a more powerful cleaning, but be careful not to damage the asphalt.
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Repeat if Necessary: For stubborn stains, you may need to repeat steps 2-6.
Stubborn Oil Stains
If the baking soda method doesn't completely remove the stain, you can try these alternative methods:
- Detergent: Mix a strong solution of dish soap or laundry detergent with water. Apply it to the stain, scrub, and rinse.
- Degreaser: Use a commercial degreaser specifically designed for asphalt. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
- Trisodium Phosphate (TSP): Note: TSP is a strong chemical and should be used with caution. Mix TSP with water according to the package directions. Apply to the stain, scrub, and rinse thoroughly. Wear gloves and eye protection when using TSP. Check local regulations regarding its use as it may be restricted or banned in some areas.
Prevention
Preventing oil spills is always easier than cleaning them up. Here are a few tips:
- Use drip pans under vehicles to catch oil leaks.
- Regularly inspect your vehicles for leaks.
- Be careful when changing oil or performing other maintenance on vehicles.
