Engine oils can leave very unpleasant stains on driveways, concrete, tarmac and paving.
Removing engine oil stains can be difficult, with many experts recommending pricey specialist products.
However, cleaning enthusiasts have revealed a kitchen staple that can tackle the stains in just one hour – and it’s not washing powder.
Someone posted on the Facebook group, ‘Cleaning tips and tricks’: “Anyone know any hacks to remove engine oil off driveway please?”
The post was inundated with more than 30 responses from cleaning enthusiasts with the most suggested method being to use Dawn dish soap.
Stacy White said: “Use Dawn dish-washing liquid and a scrub brush. Give the grease spots a good squirt of Dawn, and scrub it in a circular motion to get it down into the ridges of the surface.
“Then put more Dawn on it and let it sit for about an hour. Then scrub it again, and rinse it off with the garden hose.
“If the spot is still there, do it again. If it’s really stubborn, sprinkle baking soda onto the grease spot along with the Dawn and scrub some more. The grease will come off eventually.”
Kelly Castaneda-Wrightstone replied: “Dawn dish soap, hot water and elbow grease.”
Sheila Garrett commented: “Dawn [dish soap] leave it, rinse off after one hour.”
Nicole Danielson posted: “I’ve heard Dawn dish soap and a scrub brush but I haven’t tried it.”
Dawn Dishwashing Liquid claims it’s “tough on grease, yet gentle”.
The dishwashing soap can be bought from Amazon, eBay and other online sites. Dawn Platinum Dishwashing Liquid Dish Soap costs £13.99 from Amazon.
Other suggestions from cleaning enthusiasts include using cat litter, WD40 and washing powder.
Amanda J Lewis replied: “Cat litter to absorb as much as possible before putting any chemical on it.”
Lisa Bieris said: “WD40 (or equivalent) will remove engine oil.”
Marie Therese Officerr commented: “Daz washing powder, put it in with a bit of water to soak it in then scrub with a hard brush.
“Leave it to dry will look white and then wash it every so often. I did it and it took the oil away.”
