Simple DIY Solution to Remove Leaf Stains from Concrete
- Oct 13
- 3 min read
When fall hits Ohio (and pretty much anywhere else with trees and concrete), leaf stains become a familiar sight. Whether it’s your driveway, patio, or walkway — those brownish, rusty stains left behind from fallen leaves can make even the nicest concrete look neglected. But don’t worry, there’s an easy, affordable fix you can mix up yourself with supplies from almost any store.
Why Leaf Stains Happen
Before we jump into the fix, let’s quickly cover why leaf stains appear in the first place:
When leaves sit on damp concrete, organic tannins and natural dyes from the leaf leach into the pores of the slab. Add a little dew or rain, and those pigments bond just enough to leave a temporary stain. They’re harmless (but unsightly), and if you’re getting ready to seal your concrete, it’s best to remove them first so you don’t lock them in under the sealer.
What You’ll Need
The best part about this cleaning solution? It's composed of four basic items you probably already have on hand. If not, you can easily grab everything you need from your local Dollar General, hardware store, or supermarket.
Supplies:
Liquid Bleach
Liquid Laundry Detergent
Water
Pump Sprayer (large or small, depending on the area)
The DIY Leaf Stain Removal Formula
To create the cleaning solution, mix the following ratio:
16 parts bleach; 16 parts water; 1 part liquid laundry detergent
For smaller batches, that could look like:
16 oz bleach
16 oz water
1 oz detergent
You can multiply these numbers up for larger areas, just be sure to keep the ratio the same.
How to Apply
Mix Your Solution: First, add bleach and water, then pour the detergent on top. (If you add the detergent first, it’s harder to clean out of the container later.)
Shake Well: Secure the lid and give it a good mix until everything’s evenly combined.
Apply Generously: Using your sprayer, soak each leaf-stained area thoroughly. Ensure you’re getting sufficient coverage for the solution to penetrate deep into the pores of the concrete.
Let The Solution Sit: Give the cleaner a few minutes to lift the stain. For heavy discoloration, you may need to lightly scrub with a soft brush or reapply a second coat.
Rinse Thoroughly: Once the stains begin to fade, rinse the surface clean with water and let it dry before sealing or walking on it.
Pro Tips for Best Results
Work on a mild day: Avoid freezing temps or direct sunlight — cool, overcast conditions help the cleaner stay active longer.
Spot treat the smaller areas: If your slab only has a few stains, a small handheld sprayer is easier to control.
For larger jobs, use a pump sprayer: This saves time and ensures even application across the surface.
Never mix other cleaners or acids with this formula, as bleach and other chemicals can create dangerous fumes.
Why It Works
This simple combo works because:
Bleach breaks down the organic matter that causes the discoloration.
Laundry detergent helps lift and suspend those particles so they rinse away easily.
Water dilutes the mix, making it safe for most concrete surfaces when used properly.
It’s safe, effective, and a lot cheaper than most commercial concrete cleaners.
Before You Seal
If you’re cleaning your driveway before sealing, removing leaf stains ensures your sealer bonds properly and your finish looks clean, even, and professional.
Key Takeaways
Mix bleach, water, and detergent in a 16:16:1 ratio.
Apply using a sprayer — spot treat or cover larger areas as needed.
Works great for leaf stains, mold, and mildew.
Always rinse thoroughly before sealing.
Inexpensive, fast, and effective — all with household ingredients.
