How to Remove Hydraulic Fluid Stains

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Things You'll Need

  • Gloves

  • Cat litter

  • Newspaper

  • Broom

  • Dustpan

  • Garbage bag

  • Grease-lifting dish detergent

  • Hard-bristled scrub brush

  • Hose

Image Credit: Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images

Hydraulic fluids are used in vehicle transmissions and the brake systems. If you park your car in the driveway and experience a transmission leak or a brake fluid leak, the hydraulic fluid will stain your driveway. Like oil and grease stains, these dark red stains can be a real eyesore for your home and property. Most professionals will treat these stains, as long as you're willing to pay a lot for their services. Before you make that costly call, try a few simple steps to remove the stains on your own.

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Step 1

Pour a generous amount of cat litter on the hydraulic fluid stains. Cover with newspaper. Leave for at least an hour.

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Step 2

Put on gloves, and sweep up the cat litter. Dispose of the litter in a garbage bag.

Step 3

Wet the area, if the stain is still visible, with water from your hose. Pour dish detergent on the stains.

Step 4

Scrub the stains with a scrub brush. Apply as much pressure as you can to ensure the detergent adequately penetrates the stain.

Step 5

Rinse well with water from the hose.

Tip

For best results, treat the stain as soon as possible. Stains that sit for a long period are much harder to remove.

Warning

Always wear gloves when coming in contact with hydraulic fluid as it can cause skin irritation.

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