Polished concrete floors are admired for their sleek appearance, durability, and low maintenance needs. However, maintaining their shine and performance requires more than just any cleaning product. Using the wrong cleaners—especially ones that are too acidic or too alkaline—can dull the surface, weaken the protective finish, and shorten the floor's lifespan.
That’s why using a low pH cleaner designed for polished concrete is essential. At CustomCrete, we help businesses throughout the Chicago area maintain their polished floors with the right products and care techniques. In this blog, we’ll explain why low pH matters, what to look for in a cleaner, and recommend some of the best options available.
Why Low pH Cleaners Matter for Polished Concrete
Polished concrete surfaces are chemically refined and densified to create their signature shine and durability. Harsh cleaning agents can break down the surface chemistry, causing:
- Loss of gloss and smoothness
- Surface etching and staining
- Shortened floor lifespan
Low pH cleaners (usually pH 7 or slightly below) are gentle enough to clean without damaging the floor. They help maintain the densified surface while effectively removing dirt, spills, and grime.
What to Look for in a Low pH Cleaner
When choosing a cleaner for polished concrete, keep these factors in mind:
- pH Level: Aim for neutral (around pH 7) or slightly acidic (pH 6-7) formulas.
- Non-Abrasive: Avoid cleaners with harsh abrasives or scrubbing agents.
- Residue-Free: Choose products that don’t leave films or streaks behind.
- Biodegradable and Safe: Eco-friendly formulas are better for indoor air quality and safer for maintenance crews.
- Designed for Concrete: Specialty formulations work better than generic all-purpose cleaners.
Best Low pH Cleaners for Polished Floors
Here are some of the top products trusted by professionals for maintaining polished concrete:
1. CreteClean Plus with Scar Guard by Curecrete
This cleaner is specifically formulated for polished concrete and is used and sold by CustomCrete for ongoing floor care. It’s designed to clean effectively without damaging the floor’s finish, while also reinforcing the surface over time.
Key Features:
- Designed for polished and densified concrete
- Helps preserve shine and surface hardness
- Safe for autoscrubbers and manual mopping
2. Prosoco DailyKlean
Prosoco DailyKlean is specifically designed for the routine maintenance of polished concrete. It lifts dirt and grime without damaging the surface or dulling the shine.
Key Features:
- Low pH (around 7)
- Highly concentrated for cost-effective use
- No rinsing required for light cleaning
- Safe for autoscrubbers and manual mopping
3. Ameripolish Rejuvenating Cleaner
Ameripolish offers a rejuvenating cleaner that not only removes contaminants but also reinforces the surface with a small amount of densifier.
Key Features:
- Neutral pH
- Helps maintain hardness and shine
- Ideal for polished concrete and densified floors
- Concentrated formula for daily use
4. Fabuloso Professional All-Purpose Cleaner
While Fabuloso is widely known as an all-purpose cleaner, the Professional version with neutral pH makes it suitable for polished concrete surfaces when used properly diluted.
Key Features:
- Neutral pH
- Economical and easy to find
- Leaves a light, pleasant fragrance
- No harsh residues
5. Zep Neutral Floor Cleaner Concentrate
Zep’s neutral cleaner is a versatile option for maintaining polished concrete without risking surface damage.
Key Features:
- Neutral pH
- Low-sudsing formula (ideal for autoscrubbers)
- No rinse needed under normal use
- Economical for large spaces
Cleaning Tips for Polished Concrete Floors
- Dust Mop Daily: Remove fine dust and debris that can act like sandpaper.
- Wet Mop or Autoscrub Weekly: Use a neutral cleaner diluted according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Spot Clean Spills Immediately: Prevent stains and protect the surface.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Stay away from bleach, ammonia, vinegar, or acidic cleaners.
- Schedule Professional Maintenance: An occasional reburnish or touch-up from a concrete pro helps keep polished floors looking their best.
Final Thoughts
Polished concrete is a fantastic investment for businesses looking for durability, low maintenance, and modern appeal. However, using the wrong cleaning products can damage that investment over time. Choosing a low pH cleaner designed for polished concrete will help maintain your floor’s shine, strength, and beauty for years to come.
At CustomCrete, we guide Chicago-area businesses in both installing and maintaining their polished concrete floors with the right care routines.
Need help with polished concrete maintenance? Visit our next article, “Will Polished Concrete Work for My Business?”.
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