How to Clean Garage Floors and Driveways with TSP

B-Brite TSP Cleaner is a heavy-duty trisodium phosphate powder. The label lists driveways and floors among its jobs, and it lifts stubborn grime from garage floors and driveways.

What you need

  • B-Brite TSP Cleaner (454 g / 1 lb canister)
  • A bucket and warm water
  • A stiff scrub brush or push broom
  • A hose for rinsing
  • Gloves and eye protection

Standard cleaning

  1. Mix: combine 80 g (3 oz, about 6 tablespoons) of TSP Cleaner with 1 US gallon (3.8 L) of warm water.
  2. Apply the solution to the surface.
  3. Scrub as needed to remove dirt and stains.
  4. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.

Heavy cleaning for tough stains

  1. Mix a concentrated solution: 3 tablespoons of TSP Cleaner with 1 cup (250 mL) of water.
  2. Apply it directly to the stains.
  3. Soak: let it sit for several minutes.
  4. Scrub the stains thoroughly.
  5. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.

Tips

  • Use warm water so the powder dissolves properly.
  • Don’t let the solution dry on the surface. It can leave a white, powdery residue.
  • Rinse well to remove any residue.

Don’t use it on

  • Aluminum, chrome or other metals
  • Glass, mirrors or ceramic tile
  • Painted or finished wood you don’t intend to strip

Safety

Caution: irritant. TSP may irritate eyes and skin. Wear gloves and eye protection. Do not mix with other chemicals or cleaners, including vinegar. Keep out of reach of children.

First aid: contains trisodium phosphate. If swallowed, call a Poison Control Centre or doctor immediately. Do not induce vomiting. If in eyes, rinse with water for 15 minutes.

Washing walls before you paint? See how to wash walls before painting with TSP.