How To Clean Up A Kerosene Spill On Concrete

If you spill kerosene on your driveway or basement floor, act quickly — the longer a kerosene spill is allowed to set, the more difficult it will be to remove the stain and odor. Although kerosene is not volatile like gasoline, it is combustible; proper cleaning will eliminate any hazards caused by the spill. Any household that uses kerosene-fueled items should prepare a "spill kit" for a rapid response to accidents when they happen.

Step 1

Spread cat litter on the kerosene spill immediately. As the kerosene absorbs into the litter, sweep it into a dustpan and dump it into a trash bag. Apply more litter to the spill, if necessary. Allow the litter to sit until the spot is dry.

Step 2

Sprinkle the spot generously with heavy duty laundry detergent powder. Allow it to sit for five to 10 minutes, then scrub the area with a nylon scrub brush dipped in hot water.

Step 3

Lay an absorbent cloth over the spot. Once it becomes saturated, replace it with a dry one, repeating until the detergent and kerosene residue is gone. Allow the spot to dry.

Step 4

Sprinkle the spot with baking soda to absorb the kerosene odor. Leave the baking soda in place for 24 hours, then sweep it up. If the odor remains, place a 1-pound open container of activated charcoal near the spill site until the odor is gone.