Cleaning grout is an important part of maintaining the cleanliness and aesthetics of tiled surfaces. Over time, grout can accumulate dirt, grime, and mildew, which can cause it to become discolored. Cleaning grout can be challenging for the average person without the right equipment and materials, but read on to learn some tips on how to conquer it on your own.
Prefer to leave this daunting task to a professional Fort Collins cleaning service? Contact the experts at Clean Bees today!
What is Grout?
Grout is a combination of cement, water, colorant, and aggregate which is commonly used in household applications for the installation of tiles. Essentially, grout is what fills the open space and joints that are needed to align and array tiles and it is often used in bathrooms, kitchens, and other areas with tilework.
Grout can fade and become dirty over time, often accumulating slimy black mildew that you’ll see as a darker line in between your tiles. Because of this, it is important to make sure your grout is cleaned regularly to retain its fresh, clean look.
Cleaning Techniques
It is easiest to hire a professional cleaner for a task like this, but if you are determined to do it yourself, there are a few different ways to tackle the challenge.
Steam Cleaning
Steam cleaners can be rented and are highly effective for cleaning both grout and tile. This, of course, requires a solid investment on your end as a steam cleaner is not inexpensive to rent or purchase.
Homemade Cleaner
With a combination of a few household items, you can make your own grout cleaning solution!
The first thing you should try is hot water and a stiff brush to see whether that is sufficient for cleaning the dirt or mildew from your grout. If it’s not enough, here are a few different recipes that may prove more effective.
- A solution of bleach diluted with water. This is a strong mixture and can turn your stained grout white again, but this should only be used occasionally as it is quite potent and can damage tile if used excessively. Consider diluting the bleach significantly with initial applications and increasing its potency if needed.
- A solution of 1 part dish soap, 6 parts baking soda, and 3 parts hydrogen peroxide. Balance the level of each ingredient in order to get a paste-like mixture, then cover your grout with the paste and let it sit for several minutes. Scrub it off and wash it with hot water to finish.
- A solution of baking soda, vinegar, and water in equal parts. The vinegar should be diluted because, like the bleach mentioned in the first solution, it can damage tiles and surfaces if used frequently. Once again, spray the grout with this mixture, let it sit for several minutes, then scrub and rinse with hot water. Be sure not to use vinegar on unsealed grout as this may lead to damage.
Professional Cleaning Products
If homemade solutions don’t work to renew your grout, it may be time to turn it up a notch with professional cleaning products. These products include grout erasers, mold remover sprays, and grout brushes from brands such as:
- Grout-Eez
- OxiClean
- Black Diamond Stoneworks Ultimate Grout Cleaner
Grout Renewal
In some cases, no matter how much you clean your existing grout, it never regains its original color and clean look.
If this is the case, you may also consider using a grout renewal product. Grout renewal is applied on top of clean grout to form a new layer that refreshes its original color and extends its lifespan. Grout renewal products can be purchased to match the same color you have or a darker color that helps to hide future stains.
Preventative Measures and Maintenance (Grout Sealant)
Once you your grout and tiles are cleaned, you’ll want to ensure that they stay that way!
Investing in grout sealant will give your tile floors and walls an extra layer of protection, helping to protect them against future stains. This can be applied on your own or with the help of a professional, but it is important that you make sure the sealant is compatible with your tiles and type of grout.
Dirt and mildew stains grout when there are higher levels of moisture in the given room. Taking steps to reduce moisture levels in your bathroom will reduce the chance of mold forming. You may also want to consider wiping down tiles with a squeegee or towel when you’re finished showering, and increase ventilation by opening windows or by investing in a dehumidifier.
As a final point, routine washing is a must to ensure tiles and grout remain clean and mold-free. Weekly washing to maintain your house’s beauty is a great investment, but if you find yourself low on time it may be smart to hire professional cleaners.
Contact a Professional Cleaning Company
Grout cleaning is not an easy task and the average person doesn’t have all the equipment and materials required to do a great job. Ensure that your grout and tiles are looking brand new for years to come by hiring the help of Clean Bees! Contact our Fort Collins cleaning service today to learn more or to schedule an estimate.
