How To Clean Concrete The Easy Way

Concrete is everywhere, from driveways and patios to walkways and even decorative garden features. But moss and mould can quickly turn your concrete from "wow" to "whoa," creating an eyesore and a slippery hazard. Cleaning concrete can be a real chore, but Wet & Forget makes it easy. Our products do the hard work for you, so you can skip the pressure washing and scrubbing. Let's dive into how it works.

What Makes My Concrete So Grimy?

Concrete growths are a universal headache. Before cleaning your concrete, it's helpful to identify the type you're dealing with. Here are some of the most common culprits:

  • Moss - A green fuzzy growth that has root-like structures.
  • Algae - A green or black powdery film that grows on outdoor surfaces, making them slippery and slimy. Green algae thrives in shade, while black algae prefers full sunlight.
  • Mould - A slimy or fuzzy growth, usually black, that thrives in damp, shady areas.
  • Lichen - A flat, leaf-like growth that attaches firmly to the surface and comes in a range of colours, typically red, yellow, brown, or green.

How Can Wet & Forget Clean My Concrete? 

Removing organic growths like mould and moss is a breeze. Forget about pressure washers and specialised tools - all you need is a bottle of  Wet & Forget. For larger areas, our Rapid Application helps you tackle the job quickly and effectively. You can order both online, or find them in your local store. And with a non-acidic, non-caustic formula, they’re safe to use on almost any outdoor surface, including tennis courts, roofs and even campers.

(Please note: you cannot put W&F 5L (blue) into your Rapid bottle due to Rapid being a 2L concentrate versus W&F being a 5L concentrate)

Remove Moss and Lichen From Your Roof with Wet & Forget Products

How To Apply Wet & Forget To Concrete

Wet & Forget Moss, Mould, Lichen & Algae Remover is specially formulated to tackle ugly organic growths - no scrubbing or pressure washing needed.

  • Choose a cool, dry day to apply the product, when no rain is forecast for at least 5 hours.

  • In a garden sprayer, mix 1 part concentrate with 5 parts water

  • Saturate the dry concrete, covering the entire surface you want to clean

  • You’re all done! Our clever formula works with Mother Nature as the weathering helps remove the decomposing organic matter.

Please note: We know it’s called rapid but that’s the application, not the results. The formula requires both rainfall and time to effectively eliminate existing growth and prevent new growth for up to a year.

How To Apply Rapid Application To Concrete

With Rapid Application, all you have to do is attach your hose, turn it on and start spraying!

  • Apply on a cool, dry, windless day when rain isn't expected for at least 5 hours.
    Simply saturate the concrete with the product.
  • The reach nozzle extends up to 8 metres (2 storeys), eliminating the need for ladders.
  • The quick-change nozzle allows for incredibly fast application, covering areas more than 50 times faster than a garden sprayer.
  • No Mess, No Fuss: The product is ready to use, requiring no mixing or measuring.
  • Coverage: Each 2L pack covers 150-300 sq m, depending on the surface's porosity and contamination level.
  • Long-lasting Results: Watch your concrete gradually become clean with just one application.

Please note that results will appear gradually, as the formula requires both rainfall and time to effectively eliminate existing growth and prevent new growth for up to a year.

Read more on Wet & Forget or Rapid Application

Are They Safe To Use With Pets?

As with any cleaning product, it’s important to keep your pet off the surfaces until the product is completely dry. This prevents them from licking the formula off their fur or paws. If they accidentally sit or walk through the product before it dries, wash their feet and fur with fresh water. As we like to say “Don’t let your moggy or doggy’s paws get soggy!”

How to clean concrete fast? 

For heavily contaminated concrete, a second application may be needed after a month. Once the initial cleaning is complete, regular maintenance will keep your concrete looking its best and prevent stubborn growths from returning. The good news is, that each application makes the next one even more effective! Simply re-apply Wet & Forget at the first sign of regrowth to stop the unsightly contamination in its tracks.

Can’t I Just Use Bleach Instead?

While bleach is often used for cleaning and can remove stains from concrete, it often requires a lot of scrubbing and has strong fumes. Our Wet & Forget products are bleach-free, making them safe for use on any outdoor surface and giving them an unlimited shelf life. Plus, they work like a charm!

Why Has My Concrete Turned Orange?

If you notice your concrete turning orange after cleaning, don't worry! That's actually a good sign – it shows the product is working its magic on the growth. The orange is simply the contamination changing colour as it breaks down, and it will fade away naturally over time. Your concrete is well on its way to looking clean and fresh again!

At Wet & Forget, we’ve got the answer to all your concrete contamination issues. Discover our range of outdoor products online or contact us if you have any questions.