A dirty grout is an unpleasant sight. That’s why you need to take your tile and grout cleaning activities seriously. Using the right combination of techniques and cleaning solutions, you can always make sure they’re bright, clean, and pleasing to the sight. Unless you have hardwood floors, tile and grout require special care to ensure its pleasing appearance.
This article will help you restore your tiles and grout like new. So, are you ready for some thorough home cleaning on the weekends? Here’s how you can ensure your tiles and grout are as clean and tidy as possible.
Two Types of Grout
Before anything else, let’s cover the different grout types. There are two kinds of grout, namely, cement and epoxy based. So let’s dig a little deeper to understand their composition.
Cement-based
Cement-based grout is for use in homes, and the application can consist of water, cement, and sometimes sand. Sand strengthens grout which is often the case for floor tiles. However, wall tires require less strength, that’s why it has thinner grout lines.
In addition, never use water-based floor finish for grouted floors. This finish can penetrate the grout and will make restoration very difficult.
Epoxy-based grout
This type of grout uses polymer instead of concrete. As a result, it develops into a stain-resistant filler that’s easy to clean and doesn’t need sealant. However, epoxy-based grout resembles a plastic-like appearance which is not pleasing to most people.
How to Restore Grout
When cleaning grout, it is best to use the least aggressive approach. Grout is a powdery material that can react when exposed to acidic products. Nylon brushes compare better to wire brushes in preventing any damage. When using chemicals, it is best to try neutral pH first instead of corrosive solutions.
Here are a few tips on how to restore the appearance of the grout.
1. Remove mold and mildew
2. Use general-purpose cleaner
3. Use tile and grout cleaning solutions
If you are unsatisfied with steps 1 and 2, then it is time to try step 3. When stains or dirt are hard to remove, it is time to use stronger chemicals. When using chemicals, you can expect several precautions but follow the manufacturer’s recommendation on dwell time to avoid an unwanted reaction.
How to Clean Tiles
Juices, coffee, and tea
Remove these stains using a mild detergent diluted in hot water. Next, blot the area using hydrogen peroxide or bleach for several minutes and rinse the surface with water.
Grease
Remove fat-based stains and grease using non-abrasive tile and cleaner or club soda and water. After you remove most of the oil, you should buff the tiles using a microfiber cloth for a dirt-free finish.
Dye and ink
Soak a soft cloth in rubbing alcohol and apply it directly to the stain. Next, apply hydrogen peroxide to the area and use a soft, damp cloth to rinse the solution. Finally, add baking soda to the mixture if the stain is hard to remove.
The Bottom Line
No one wants to see filthy tile and grout in their home. Tile and grout cleaning should be done regularly to prevent mold and mildew from growing. Likewise, stains and other dirt should be removed using the right cleaning solution and techniques.
Do you find this article helpful? Contact us so we can guide you with your home cleaning efforts.
