Introduction
Oil stains on a beautiful limestone driveway can be frustrating. Whether from a leaky car or accidental spill, these stubborn marks can ruin your home’s curb appeal. The good news? Removing oil from limestone is achievable with the right techniques and products.
At Forest Stone, we specialize in both high-quality limestone paving and professional stone care products. In this guide, we’ll show you how we removed a deep-set oil stain from our Lymington Dune Courtsetts limestone driveway using Lithofin Oil Ex (to draw out the oil) and Lithofin Power Clean (for a final, streak-free finish).
By the end, you’ll know:
✅ Why limestone is prone to oil stains
✅ The best professional products for oil removal
✅ Step-by-step cleaning instructions
✅ How to prevent future stains
✅ Where to buy premium limestone & cleaning supplies
Why Limestone Needs Special Care
Limestone is a natural, slightly porous stone, meaning it absorbs liquids—including oil—more easily than something like a porcelain tile. If left untreated, oil can cause:
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Permanent discoloration
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Long-term damage to the stone’s structure
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Increased dirt buildup over time
That’s why acting fast and using the right cleaning methods is crucial.
The Best Products for Removing Oil from Limestone
Professional-Grade Cleaners from Forest Stone
At Forest Stone, we recommend (and sell) specialist stone care products that are safe for limestone and highly effective:
1. Lithofin Oil Ex – Deep Oil Stain Remover
✔ Specifically designed for natural stone
✔ Penetrates deep to break down and lift oil stains
✔ Safe for limestone, sandstone, and other porous surfaces
2. Lithofin Power Clean – Residue-Free Cleaner
✔ Removes leftover residues without damaging stone
✔ pH-balanced for long-term stone care
✔ Ideal for post-treatment cleaning
Why choose these? Generic “driveway cleaners” often contain acids or harsh chemicals that damage limestone.
How to Remove Oil Stains from a Limestone Driveway: Step-by-Step
What You’ll Need:
✔ Lithofin Oil Ex
✔ Lithofin Power Clean
✔ Soft brush or scrubbing pad
✔ Clean cloths or sponges
✔ Warm water
Step 1: Absorb Excess Oil (If Fresh)
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Blot up as much oil as possible with paper towels or an absorbent cloth.
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Avoid rubbing—this can push oil deeper into the stone.
Step 2: Apply Lithofin Oil Ex
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Shake the bottle well.
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Pour Lithofin Oil Ex directly onto the stain, ensuring full coverage.
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Let it sit for few hours (or overnight for old stains). Ideally do this process in shade or on a dry but not too hot of a day so the Oil Ex has time to work.
Step 3: Scrub Gently
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Use a soft brush to lift the stain.
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Avoid wire brushes—they can scratch limestone!
Step 4: Rinse & Check
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Wash away residue with warm water.
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If the stain persists, repeat the process once or twice more.
Step 5: Final Clean with Lithofin Power Clean
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Mix Lithofin Power Clean with water (as per instructions).
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Scrub the entire area to remove residues.
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Rinse thoroughly.
Step 6: Let It Dry & Admire!
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Your limestone should now look stain-free and revitalized!
Preventing Future Oil Stains
Once clean, keep your driveway protected with these tips:
🔹 Seal Your Limestone – Use a quality sealer (like Lithofin MN Stain Stop) to reduce porosity.
🔹 Clean Spills Immediately – The faster you act, the easier removal will be.
🔹 Use Drip Trays – Place under parked cars to catch leaks.
🔹 Regular Maintenance – Sweep debris and wash periodically with just water or a mild solution of water and Lithofin Power Clean.
FAQs About Cleaning Limestone Driveways
Q: Can I use baking soda or vinegar on limestone?
A: No! Vinegar is acidic and can etch limestone. Baking soda is abrasive and may scratch the surface. Stick to pH-neutral stone cleaners like Lithofin.
Q: How often should I seal my limestone driveway?
A: Every 2 years, depending on traffic and weather exposure.
Q: Will pressure washing damage limestone?
A: Yes, if misused. Use a gentle setting and keep the nozzle at least 12 inches away.
Upgrade Your Driveway with Premium Limestone
Looking for beautiful, durable limestone paving? Forest Stone offers:
🛒 Lymington Dune Courtsetts – The same stunning limestone used in our demo!
🛒 Winsor Pavers – A sleek, dark option for modern homes.
🛒 Lymington Beige Coach House Cobbles – A light, elegant choice.
Browse our full range of limestone paving and stone care products.
Final Thoughts
Removing oil stains from limestone is simple with the right products and techniques. At Forest Stone, we provide both premium limestone paving and professional cleaning solutions to keep your driveway looking flawless.
Need help choosing the right products? Contact our team for expert advice!
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