How to Clean Up Oil Stains on Your Sydney Driveway: DIY Tips & When to Call Edgeflow (2025)

Few things mar the appearance of a Sydney driveway more than unsightly oil stains. Whether from a leaky car, a spill during maintenance, or an old, forgotten mark, these greasy patches can be frustratingly stubborn. While fresh spills are easier to tackle, even older stains can sometimes be improved with the right approach. At Edgeflow, we’re experts in professional driveway cleaning in Sydney, and we’re here to share some tips on how to clean up oil stains, plus advice on when it’s best to call in the professionals.

For a quick overview, you might also want to check our existing Sydney guide on cleaning up oil stains on driveways.

Act Fast! Treating Fresh Oil Spills on Your Driveway:

The key to successfully removing an oil stain is to act as quickly as possible before the oil has a chance to deeply penetrate the porous surface of your driveway (especially concrete or pavers).

1. DO NOT RUB OR HOSE IT DOWN: This will only spread the oil and make the stain larger or drive it deeper.
2. Absorb Excess Oil: Immediately cover the fresh spill with an absorbent material. Good options include:
   • Cat litter (clay-based is best)
   • Sawdust
   • Baking soda
   • Cornstarch
   • Sand

   Pile it on generously and let it sit for at least a few hours, or even overnight, to draw out as much oil as possible.

3. Sweep Up: Carefully sweep up the absorbent material and dispose of it responsibly (check local Sydney council guidelines for hazardous waste disposal).
4. Scrub the Area: Now, create a paste with a strong detergent (like dish soap designed to cut grease) and a little water. Apply it to the stained area and scrub vigorously with a stiff-bristled brush (not a wire brush, which can damage some surfaces).
5. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the area well with clean water.

Repeat scrubbing and rinsing if necessary. For fresh spills, this method can be quite effective.

Tackling Older, Set-In Oil Stains:

Older oil stains are much tougher as the oil has had time to soak into the driveway material. Here are a few DIY methods you can try, but be prepared for multiple applications and potentially limited success:

• Poultice Method: Create a thick paste using an absorbent powder (like cat litter, baking soda, or diatomaceous earth) mixed with a solvent (such as acetone, mineral spirits, or a commercial degreaser – always test solvents on an inconspicuous area first for discoloration or damage, and ensure good ventilation). Apply the paste thickly over the stain, cover with plastic wrap taped at the edges, and let it sit for 24-48 hours. The solvent helps dissolve the oil, and the powder draws it out. Scrape off the dried poultice and scrub/rinse.
• Commercial Oil Stain Removers/Degreasers: There are many products specifically designed for removing oil stains from driveways. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. These often require scrubbing and rinsing.
• Baking Soda and Vinegar (for lighter stains): Sprinkle baking soda generously over the stain, then spray with white vinegar until it fizzes. Let it sit for 30 minutes, then scrub with a stiff brush and rinse. This is generally better for lighter, less penetrated stains.

When DIY Isn’t Enough: Calling Edgeflow for Professional Oil Stain Removal

While DIY methods can sometimes help, for deep, extensive, or very old oil stains on your Sydney driveway, professional intervention is often necessary. Here’s why Edgeflow’s driveway pressure cleaning service is superior for tough oil stains:

• Powerful Equipment: Our commercial-grade pressure washers operate at much higher pressures and flow rates than domestic units, allowing for deeper cleaning.
• Specialised Degreasers: We have access to professional-strength, environmentally responsible degreasers that are more effective at breaking down stubborn oil.
• Hot Water Pressure Washing (where appropriate): For certain surfaces and stain types, hot water pressure washing can significantly improve oil stain removal.
• Experience and Technique: Our technicians know the right combination of pressure, cleaning agents, and techniques to use for different driveway materials and stain types, minimizing the risk of damage.
• Time and Effort Savings: We can achieve results in a fraction of the time it would take for multiple DIY attempts.

Preventing Future Oil Stains on Your Sydney Driveway:

• Place a drip tray or cardboard under your car if you notice any leaks.
• Address vehicle leaks promptly.
• Consider sealing your driveway after a professional clean. A good quality sealant creates a barrier that makes it harder for oil to penetrate.

Don’t Let Oil Stains Ruin Your Sydney Driveway’s Appeal

Oil stains can be a real eyesore. While quick action on fresh spills can make a big difference, don’t despair if you have older, tougher stains. Edgeflow is here to help Sydney homeowners restore the beauty of their driveways.

Our expert driveway cleaning service is designed to tackle the most challenging stains, including oil. It’s a key component of our comprehensive exterior cleaning services. Contact Edgeflow today for a free quote and let us take care of those stubborn oil stains for you!