Step by Step: Learn How to Clean Grout on Floor Tiles
In every home, floor tiles add elegance, but what about maintaining the luster of the grout? Here we unveil the answer to the question: how to clean grout on floor tiles? Buckle up for a comprehensive guide to keeping your tiles sparkling.
Grout Types and Their Specific Cleaning Requirements
Grout, the dense fluid used to fill gaps or seal joints between tiles, comes in various types. Each of these grout types has its specific cleaning requirements that depend on their composition and color. The most common grout types are sanded, unsanded, and epoxy grout.
Sanded Grout - Made with cement and a gritty texture, this type is used for larger joints and is preferred for heavy footfall areas. However, it can be vulnerable to stains and, thus, requires regular cleaning and maintenance.
Unsanded Grout - This cement-based grout type is used for narrower joints. It is easier to clean and suitable for both polished stone tiles and vertical surfaces. Its smooth and sticky texture makes it resistant to dirt build-up.
Epoxy Grout - This is a water-resistant type that is less prone to stains, cracks, and discoloration. It's a popular choice for kitchen backsplashes and shower floors because of its durability and easy maintenance.
Understand Your Grout
Before you begin the grout cleaning process, it's crucial to understand the type of grout you have. Some grout varieties are pre-colored to resist fading, while others have polymers added to resist moisture and mildew. A sealed grout will resist stains better than an unsealed one and may affect which cleaning solutions you can use.
Materials and Tools You'll Need
A successful grout cleaning endeavor relies heavily on the correct tools and materials. The essential ones include:
- Medium-bristle brush
- Warm water
- Vinegar
- Baking soda
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Oxygen bleach
- Commercial grout cleaner
- Steam mop
Remember, testing the cleaning solution on a hidden part of the grout before application is a wise step to avoid potential discoloration.
Also read: How to Clean Prefinished Hardwood Floors
The Cleaning Process: From Mild to Intense
The complexity of grout stains varies, and so does the cleaning method. Here's a step-by-step approach starting from the mildest to the most intense method.
Warm Water and Medium-Bristle Brush
Start by scrubbing the grout using warm water and a medium-bristle brush. Avoid excessive water and don't let it sit for too long, as it can lead to mildew due to grout's porous nature.
Vinegar and Warm Water Solution
If grout stains persist, use a half-and-half solution of vinegar and warm water. Spray it on, let it stand for 5 minutes, then scrub with a stiff brush. Note: Only apply vinegar on sealed grout.
Baking Soda Paste and Vinegar
Next, escalate to a baking soda paste applied on the grout lines and sprayed with the vinegar solution. After the mixture stops foaming, scrub with a brush, rinse, and wipe dry.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Moderate stains might require hydrogen peroxide. Apply it directly or mix it with baking soda to create a potent paste. This method is generally safe for both sealed and unsealed grout.
Oxygen Bleach
For tougher stains, especially on white grout, use oxygen bleach. Apply it as per the manufacturer's directions, let it soak in for 10-15 minutes before rinsing, and then wipe the area dry.
Commercial Grout Cleaner
If stains still persist, consider a commercial grout cleaner. There are various options available, both spray-and-wipe and scour-with-a-brush types. However, use these products cautiously, as they often contain harsh ingredients.
Steam Cleaning
The worst grout stains can be steam cleaned using a high-quality steam mop. It's an effective and environmentally friendly cleaning tool suitable for several hard surfaces.
Chlorine Bleach
In extreme cases, chlorine bleach can be used. However, it's essential to rinse the grout thoroughly before applying bleach, especially if you have used vinegar. Mixing vinegar with bleach can emit a toxic gas.
Maintaining Your Grout Post-Cleaning
Once you've successfully cleaned your grout, ensure regular maintenance to avoid future heavy staining. Spray the grout with vinegar or a mild grout cleaner and wipe it down weekly. This simple routine can keep your grout stain-free and add years to your tiled floors' life.
Grout cleaning might seem daunting, but with the right methods and maintenance, it becomes manageable. Remember, learning how to clean grout on floor tiles not only refreshes your floors but also significantly increases their lifespan. Adopt a routine, stick to it, and your grout will remain sparkling clean for years to come. Remember to follow your tiling professional's or manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations and avoid harsh cleansers if your grout is prone to damage.
What Do Professionals Use to Clean Grout?
Professional grout cleaning services are experts at restoring the original shine and color of grout lines. They use specialized cleaning products and equipment that are often more potent and efficient than typical household cleaning solutions and tools. Here's a glimpse at what they generally use:
Commercial Grout Cleaners: These high-strength cleaners are formulated with potent chemicals capable of breaking down stubborn grime and stains. The commercial-grade products are usually pH-neutral to ensure that they clean without causing harm to the grout or tile surface.
Rotary Cleaning Machines: To facilitate quick and efficient grout cleaning, professionals often use rotary cleaning machines. These devices are equipped with brushes designed specifically to reach into the tiny pores and crevices of grout, lifting out dirt and stains that manual scrubbing might miss.
Steam Cleaners: Industrial-grade steam cleaners are another staple tool of grout cleaning professionals. The high-pressure steam works to dissolve and lift away ingrained dirt and mold, all without the use of harsh chemicals. These steam cleaners are particularly effective in cleaning grout lines in high-moisture environments such as bathrooms and kitchens.
Grout Sealing Products: Once the grout is clean, professionals often apply a sealer to protect it from future staining and damage. These sealers create a barrier on the grout surface that repels water, dirt, and other potential staining agents. It's an essential step in ensuring the longevity of your grout and maintaining a clean appearance.
Professional Protective Gear: Last but not least, professionals also use protective gear, such as gloves and eye protection. These tools are vital when working with powerful cleaning solutions and machinery, ensuring the safety of the cleaning personnel.
In conclusion, professionals employ a combination of commercial-grade cleaners, specialized equipment, and sealing products to achieve impressive grout cleaning results. Although these methods and tools are often more powerful than typical household items, many of the principles remain the same: thorough cleaning, adequate rinsing, and regular maintenance to keep grout looking its best.
Homeowners can borrow these principles when tackling grout cleaning at home, starting with the least aggressive method and escalating as needed, always mindful of the type of grout and tile they are dealing with.
And there you have it - a comprehensive guide on how to clean grout on floor tiles. With these simple yet effective methods, your tiled floors can shine like new for years to come.