How to Scrub and Disinfect a Concrete Basement Floor

A concrete basement floor.
  • 3-5 hours
  • Beginner
  • 0-50
What You'll Need
Bleach
Water
Bucket
String mop
All purpose cleaning detergent
What You'll Need
Bleach
Water
Bucket
String mop
All purpose cleaning detergent

If your basement has not been finished, then it likely has a concrete floor. A concrete basement floor is usually good for storage and for workshop areas. It sometimes accumulates mold, mildew, and dust, which looks white and dirty.

As you walk along your basement floor, you track this dust and dirt throughout the house. It is possible to clean a basement floor. Cleaning the basement floor requires little mechanical skill, but it does require a good deal of time. If you follow these directions from start to finish, you will end up with a clean, fresh smelling basement floor.

Step 1 - Clear Your Basement

Clear your basement of all furniture, boxes, and other items. If you need help, enlist the services of a friend or family member. Put the items that were on your basement floor away. Store them until your basement is completely clean and dry.

Step 2 - Sweep the Floor

To prepare the floor for cleaning, sweep it completely. Using a dustpan, pick up any debris, dust, or small particles. That includes all dirt, all dust, hair, and loose coins.

Step 3 - Clean with Bleach and Water

Mix 1 cup of bleach with 1 gallon of water in a bucket. String mop the basement floor completely. Start at one corner and work to the opposite end of the basement. Allow the floor to dry, then repeat the process again. Doing so will remove dust, mold, and mildew from the floor. This preparatory step will also remove any tough stains which have formed on the basement floor.

WARNING: Bleach is toxic to breathe in and stains clothing, so make sure your basement is ventilated and put on a respirator mask before you start working. Wear old clothing and use gloves as well.

Step 4 - Wash With Soap and Water

Now that you have fully sanitized the concrete basement floor, pour detergent to the bottom of a bucket and fill the bucket with warm water. Take a clean mop, or a mop that is specifically dedicated for soapy water, and mop the floor completely. Begin at one end of the floor and proceed to the other end of the floor, working in circular motions.

If the soapy water becomes dirty, dump it in the lawn or garden and refill the bucket with another batch of warm, soapy water. After you have fully mopped your floor, allow it to dry and repeat the process.

Step 5 - Rinse

Clean the bucket and fill it with warm water. Rinse the mop. The mop should remove any soap that has been left on the concrete floor from the last step. Allow the floor to dry completely.