A sparkling clean home starts with tidy floors, but many homeowners need to remember an often grimy element – the grout. Over time, this tiny but essential cement forms a haven for dirt, mould, and stains if left unmaintained. Grouting, a necessary part of any tiled surface, can quickly become an eyesore without proper cleaning strategies.
Yet, pristine grout is more than attainable with the right tools and techniques. This article will delve into eight pro tips from cleaning experts on deeply sanitizing grout without stress or hassle. From solution selection to maintenance routines, readers will learn clever hacks to achieve tile joints any professional would be proud of.
Keep reading to level your cleaning skills and transform drab grout into a dazzling finish that turns heads.
Use The Right Cleaning Solution
For basic cleaning of lightly soiled grout, you only need a simple solution of warm water and a gentle cleaner like white vinegar or a pH-neutral grout cleaner. Mix about 1/4 cup of vinegar or cleaner per gallon of water. You may need something more potent for tougher jobs, like a bleach or oxygen-based cleaner.
Be sure first to test any tile grout cleaner in an inconspicuous area to prevent damage or discoloration. Scrubbing Bubbles Daily shower spray is a great all-purpose spray cleaner for lightly soiled grout. Its unique formula cuts through soap scum and grime without harsh chemicals or abrasives.
Invest In a Quality Grout Brush
A grout brush is essential for scrubbing away dirt and stains deeply embedded in the grout. Look for a brush with tightly packed, medium-stiff nylon bristles that can scrub without being too abrasive on the grout. Replace your brush regularly every few cleaning jobs, as bristles can splay over time and not clean as effectively.
Apply Baking Soda Paste for Tough Stains
Nothing works better for stubborn grout stains like mildew or rust than a paste of baking soda and water. The gentle abrasiveness of baking soda helps scrub away stains without harming the grout. Make a paste by mixing baking soda with just enough water to form a thick but spreadable consistency. Apply the paste directly to stained areas and let it dwell for at least 15 minutes before scrubbing vigorously with a stiff bristle brush.
The chemical reaction between the baking soda and water helps break down stain molecules. After scrubbing, rinse thoroughly with clean water. You’ll be amazed at how much better stains will look after this treatment.
Steam Clean for Deep Sanitization
Regular steam cleaning is recommended for a deep clean and sanitization of tile and grout that sees a lot of moisture and foot traffic. Steam reaches up to 212°F, sufficiently hot enough to kill 99.9% of common household bacteria and viruses that can grow in damp grout lines.
Steam cleaning lifts away dirt and grime that regular scrubbing can miss. Use a steam mop or handheld steamer on a low setting and let the steam do the work – no chemicals needed. Give extra attention to corners and crevices where organic matter can build up.
Seal Grout After Cleaning
Once your grout is completely clean and dry, apply a quality grout sealer to help prevent future dirt and staining. The sealer soaks into the porous grout and forms a protective barrier that makes stains, spills, and moisture bead up and wipe away easily. For maximum protection, reapply the sealer every 12-18 months. Clear and colour-enhancing sealers are available.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Grout is porous and can be damaged by highly acidic or alkaline cleaning products over time. Forget about using undiluted toilet bowl cleaner, ammonia, or acids directly on grout. While they might cut through grime quickly, they can also eat away at the grout surface or change its colour. Stick to pH-neutral or low-acid cleaners like white vinegar and baking soda for gentle, effective cleaning.
Avoid bleach for regular maintenance—reserve it only for disinfecting or deep cleaning mouldy grout. Too much bleach will weaken and discolour the grout. Never mix bleach with other cleaners like ammonia, as toxic fumes can be produced.
Regular Maintenance Prevents Buildup
Once tiles and grout are thoroughly cleaned, develop a habit of maintenance washing down tiles with warm water weekly to prevent dirt and grime from accumulating deeply in the grout in the first place. A regular light scrub with a toothbrush 1-2 times a week keeps problem areas like shower walls and floors fresh.
Dirt and soap scum have less chance to bond irreversibly if wiped away frequently. Sweep up spills immediately and spot-clean as needed with a gentle cleaner. Deep scrubbing every few months with your grout brush keeps things looking new without deep cleaning being necessary as often.
Consider Professional Cleaning for Extensive Jobs
Some types of grout renovation jobs are best left to the professionals.
If your grout is badly stained, cracked, or crumbling in places, you may need more than surface cleaning—you may need to have the entire grout regrouted. Old silicone caulk lines around showers must also be removed before resealing can be effective. Large commercial projects like hotels or multi-unit properties are better managed by pro cleaners with industrial equipment.
In Conclusion
Armed with these pro tips, transforming grimy grout is simpler than ever.
Regular maintenance keeps joint lines sparkling for years to come with minimal effort. Master these tried-and-true techniques for deep cleaning confidence. With the right products, tools, and approach – even historically dirty grout stands no chance.
So, follow these secrets from the experts to flaunt floors any home would envy.
