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How to Clean Cement Mixer

Lowe's Editorial Team

By Lowe's Editorial Team
Published July 29, 2024

Cement can build up inside the drum and over the surface of the cement mixer if it’s not cleaned properly. This could affect how it works. Whether it’s wet or dry cement, we’ll show you how to clean your dirty cement mixer.

Why Clean Your Cement Mixer

There are many advantages to cleaning a cement mixer. Cleaning increases the lifespan of the machine by making sure that no residue hinders the paddles from turning effectively. Build-up can occur when cement mixers are not cleaned properly. Cleaning your cement mixers prevents old cement from ruining a new mix. You will also reduce the cleaning and maintenance if you clean them before and after every use.

Preparation

Before you begin the cleaning process, there are a few things you need to do to ensure a safe, smooth and effective clean: 

  • Wear protective gear. Use safety glasses to protect your eyes from the debris, dust or cleaning splashes and gloves to protect your hands. Also, wear a breathing mask to protect yourself from cement dust or any cleaning solution and acids you’re working with.
  • Disconnect the mixer from the power source. Switch the engine off and disconnect the spark plug.
  • Work outdoors and choose a well-leveled area to place your cement mixers. Also, make sure that there’s a water source nearby.
  • Keep all the cleaning materials you need at hand. Gather tools like a stiff-bristled brush, a scraping tool to scrape off hardened debris, and a sponge or cloth.

Cleaning Up Wet Cement

Cleaning your mixers just after using them is ideal because the cement is still wet. Here’s how to clean your cement mixer to keep it ready for the next use:

  • Make sure that all the concrete is poured out.
  • Fill ⅓ of the drum with water and start the mixer, allowing it to run for a few minutes. To support the cleaning and breaking down of the cement, throw in some gravel and stones. For best results, make sure the gravel goes in after the water.
  • Allow this mixture to tumble in the mixer for at least 10-15 minutes and turn it off.
  • Empty the mixture and rinse with water to get rid of any remaining residues.
  • Wipe it down dry and store it in a cool and dry place.

Cleaning Dried Cement Inside of the Cement Mixer Drum

The drum of the mixer requires the most cleaning. The methods you use to clean the inside of the drum depends on the kind of residue left behind. Here’s how to deal with each:

For Light to Mild Build up

  • Fill the drum with water and allow it to soak for a few hours to loosen up the build-up.
  • Use a stiff bristled brush to scrub away or a scraping tool to scrape off the softened concrete.
  • Rinse the drum with water until you get rid of all the concrete residues.

For Heavy build-up

Here is how to clean a dirty cement mixer with hard residues using a concrete dissolver.

  • Fill ⅓ of the drum with water and add the dissolver to it. Turn on the mixer and allow it to run for 10-15 minutes. This will allow the cleaning mixture to break the cement down.
  • Turn off the mixer and rinse with a pressure washer until completely clean.

Tip

For any commercial dissolver you use, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions.

  • Using acid to clean your cement mixer is an effective cleaning method, but it should be done with precaution and if absolutely necessary. In a bucket, add one part acid and dilute it with 10 parts of water.
Caution

Add acid to the water to prevent splashes, injuries and chemical burns. Be sure to wear gloves, protective eyewear and a breathing mask while dealing with acid.

  • Pour this mixture slowly and carefully into the mixer. Allow it to coat the drum entirely and let it sit for not more than 10 minutes.
Caution

Dispose of the liquid responsibly. Call a hazardous waste management center and follow their guidelines.

  • Use plenty of water and rinse thoroughly. 
  • To avoid any damage to the mixer, do not allow the acid to dry. After a proper rinse, you should further safeguard your mixers by neutralizing any remaining acid with a baking soda solution. 
  • Dilute ½ cup of baking soda to a gallon of water. As you add the baking soda, you will notice some fizzing and bubbles. 
  • Allow it to sit for a few minutes and rinse with water. 
  • If you’re hesitant to deal with acid, another option would be to use an acid-based cleaner and follow the manufacturer's label for proper application and safety measures.

Cleaning the Outside of the Cement Mixer

Even though the cement mixes inside the drum, residues can still accumulate over the outer layer of the drum, especially when you pour the concrete out. Cleaning the outside of the cement mixer drum is equally important as cleaning the inside. Here’s what you need to do:

  • Use a hose to wash and water down the entire surface. For tougher residues, you may use a pressure washer to clean the outside. Make sure that you use the right nozzle and pressure settings for an effective clean.
  • Harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners might damage the mixer’s paint and finish. A safer option would be to use mild soap with warm water. Use a sponge or a soft cloth to gently scrub the surface.
  • Rinse thoroughly with water and wipe it dry with a clean cloth.

Tip

For an additional layer of protection, apply a layer of wax or sealant that will prevent the sticking of dirt and debris.

Maintenance Tips

Now that you know how to clean your cement mixer, you should take steps to keep it that way. Before you store it away, make sure it is completely clean and dry. Store it in a clean and dry area until you need to use it again. When stored away, inspect its condition once in a while to check for any damages or build-up.