Does the white stuff look kind of powdery, like dry mold? If so, that is called "inflorescence", and is relatively common when you work with cement. It can be scrubbed off with water and a brush.

But, does this inflorescence show up before or after you stain? Staining after just a week is too soon. You need to wait at least 28 days, till the majority of the curing is complete.

Sue

I think Sue meant efflorescence. It's also called "bloom" and it's salts in the mix or from your water, coming to the surface. Are you using city or well water? As Sue said it can be washed off, you just have to keep at it.

As far as staining it all depends on the product you are using. Some can be done very soon after demolding and others you have to wait. Just read the directions.

Jeez, yes! Efflorescence not inflorescence! (Remind self: don't look up vinegar stuff when you're thinking about concrete!)

Sue

it was there befor i stained . i do bush and water it . but it seem's to come back. so i tryed to stain it just to see what happens . but the stain didn't cover it . i use city water. inflorescence yes i think thats it. what if i use a pigment color . thank u both for ur help.

Maybe your mix is not quite...mixed. It sounds to me like it is not efflorescence, but a mixture that is not quite mixed thoroughly. This would cause uneven staining. As far as staining, I have stained my pieces a week after unmolding with no problems; it does depend on the stain that you use though. just my two cents...:)

redhead70 what stain are u useing. i use a mixer . but maybe its not mixed well thanks . i mix it for about 15mine i wet my sand fist.