How to Remove Cement Stains

How to Remove Cement Stains From Clothing

Removing cement stains from clothing can be daunting, but as long as you act quickly and follow cleaning directions closely, you can successfully remove these stains at home.

1. Remove Dry Particles

   Avoid re-wetting dry cement, so use a firm-bristled clothes brush to brush away as much dust as possible from both sides of the fabric. After all dry cement matter is gone, wash as usual. Use plenty of water in your washing machine, and do not overcrowd the washer to ensure all cement is flushed away.

2. Remove Wet Particles

   For wet concrete stains, first, use a plastic spatula or dull kitchen knife to lift away as much of the solid matter as possible

3. Use Lime Remover

   Use Lime-A-Way or CLR to remove the stains from fabric left by wet cement, as cement is a lime-based substance. Rinse immediately and repeat if necessary.

   Tip

   Be aware that lime removal products may cause color loss and fade fabrics. Test the product by applying a few drops to an inconspicuous area, then rinse promptly.

4. Wash as Usual

   Wash the clothing as you usually would, using a heavy-duty detergent. Make sure to wash the stained garment alone to prevent spotting on other items.

How to Remove Cement Stains From Shoes

Cement is very corrosive to fabric, synthetic leather, and natural leather shoes, which is why construction workers wear rubber boots. Treating stained shoes promptly is essential to successful stain removal. 

1. Scrape Away Solids

   Use a dull edge to immediately remove as much wet cement as possible, and then flush the shoes with water. It can feel counterintuitive to use so much water on your shoes, especially leather, but if you do not, you will ruin the shoes if the concrete hardens. Use saddle soap on leather shoes to remove the stains and finish with a leather conditioner.

2. Wash or Clean as Usual

   Flush away as much cement as possible, and wash tennis shoes or sneakers as usual. Dry your shoes with a soft cloth and allow to finish air-drying away from direct heat or sunlight. 

How to Remove Cement Stains From Carpet and Upholstery

The cleaning technique you use on cement-stained carpet and upholstery depends on whether the cement is wet or dry. Be careful not to over-wet upholstery while cleaning, as excess moisture in cushions can create mold and mildew.

1. Vacuum Dry Cement

   Vacuum dry cement dust immediately. Repeat the removal process several times to ensure all the dry cement is removed. Avoid getting the area wet.

2. Apply Solvent

   Use a dull knife or plastic scraper on wet cement to lift as much of the solid matter off the carpet or upholstery as possible. The longer the cement rests on the fibers, the higher the chance of discoloration and staining. Treat the area with a few drops of dry-cleaning solvent on a white cotton cloth. Each time an area of the cloth becomes dirty, move to a clean section until the stain is entirely transferred out of the carpet or upholstery.

   Warning

   When using a dry cleaning solvent, we highly recommend wearing protective solvent-resistant gloves or other PPE (Personal Protective Equipment).

3. Rinse and Air Dry

   Blot the area with a white cloth dipped in plain water once the stain is removed to absorb as much moisture as possible. Allow the item to air dry. Do not dry with direct heat.

4. Scrape Away Dried Cement

   Scrape and vacuum any remaining dry cement pieces. For longer carpet fibers, you may be able to carefully clip away the dried cement using small scissors.

When to Call a Professional

If your garment is marked as dry clean only, visit a professional dry cleaner and point out the stains as soon as possible. This is not a stain you should attempt to treat at home on dry clean only garments. If cement or concrete gets on silk or vintage upholstery, consult a professional cleaner.

Additional Tips for Handling Cement Stains

In addition to the methods mentioned above, you can lightly use fine-grade sandpaper to remove dried cement residue. If cement gets on a hard surface, such as a wood floor, it may be best to keep the substance wet. You can apply a bit of petroleum jelly to the cement. If the cement stain is very small, you can begin the removal process by scraping it away with your fingernail, but be sure to wash your hands when you're done thoroughly. If the stain persists, feel free to repeat cleaning methods as many times as you see fit or contact a professional cleaner for more specialized advice.

When cleaning cement stains, it's best to wear clothing you don't mind dirtying with cement and concrete materials. You may also cover surrounding items using a plastic tarp. Always wear rubber gloves and a face mask when handling wet or dry cement.