Grout is probably the least attended part of our home's tiled areas when it comes to cleaning. But to achieve completely sparkly clean floors, walls, and kitchen counters, we need to clean the grout as regularly as we do the tiles. Moreover, a grout's porous surface can easily attract and absorb grease, moisture, and dirt -- all the more reason to clean it well to prevent bacteria from accumulating.
Cleaning the grout can be as easy-breezy as polishing a shoe if we use the most effective yet safest solution and method. Below we have compiled 5 easy-to-follow steps toward dirt-free grout and a brighter kitchen or bathroom.
- Prepare the cleaning solution of Bring It On Cleaner: Understanding the treatment needs of your grout comes with knowing how dirty it is or how long since it was last cleaned.
- For routine clean-up - Given the porous nature of the grout, which over time may react to highly caustic and acidic cleaners (such as bleach or vinegar), it's always best to start with the mildest and safest solution. Sometimes brushing off the dirt with warm water by using a drill brush can already do the trick.
- For moderate discoloration - Make a paste of 2 parts baking soda and 1 part water.
- For heavier dirt and tougher stains - Aside from the baking soda-water paste, you can make a vinegar solution by mixing 1 part distilled white vinegar with 1 part water in a spray bottle. Add some drops of dishwashing soap if grease has accumulated on the surface.
- Clean the tile area. Mop the floor or wipe the tiled walls and kitchen counters using warm water and a mild liquid dishwashing solution. This is to get rid of dirt and dust that has clung to the surface. Depending on the type or make of the tile, it's best always to follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning it.
- Apply the solution. Depending on the state of stains and dirt on the grout, apply the appropriate cleaning mixture on the grout. Use a spoon for the paste. For heavier dirt/tougher stains, spray the vinegar solution on top of the baking soda paste. Leave the mixture on for 5-10 minutes.
- Scrub the grout. Using a stiff brush, scrub off the dirt and grime from the grout.
- Rinse. With the help of a sponge or a cloth, wash the tiles with warm water, letting it linger a bit longer on the grout lines. Dry the tiles off with a microfiber cloth.
Why Grout Cleaning is Essential
Grout cleaning is more than just an aesthetic choice; it is a crucial step in maintaining your home's hygiene. Over time, grout, due to its porous nature, becomes a breeding ground for mold, mildew, and bacteria. Not only can this affect the overall look of your tiles, but it can also impact the health of your family. Mold spores, when inhaled, can cause respiratory problems, especially in those with asthma or allergies.
The Psychological Impact of Clean Tiles and Grout
A clean home isn't just beneficial for physical health; it has a psychological effect too. Walking into a room with sparkling tiles and grout can elevate your mood, giving you a sense of accomplishment and peace. It's no wonder, then, that many homeowners find the act of cleaning therapeutic.
Prevention: The Key to Lesser Grout Hassles
While it's essential to have a cleaning regimen, prevention is always better than cure. Here are some proactive steps you can take:
- Seal the Grout: After installing new tiles, ensure the grout is sealed. A grout sealant provides a protective barrier, preventing moisture and dirt from penetrating.
- Wipe Spills Immediately: Especially in areas like the kitchen, where stains from food and beverages are common, it's crucial to wipe up any spills immediately. This will prevent potential stains and lessen the cleaning work later on.
- Use Door Mats and Rugs: Place doormats at entrances and rugs in high-traffic areas. They can trap dirt and moisture, reducing the amount that gets onto your tile floors.
It's important to keep tile grout clean and grime-free. Using DIY remedies in cleaning tile grout is the go-to action of people concerned with health and safety. But do you know that there are available products that not only are more effective than home remedies but also safe and health-friendly? Check out our Bring It On Cleaner as a tile grout cleaner. Does the mention of brushing get your arms aching from the expected manual labor? Check out these powerful drill brushes that you can use as Bring It On Cleaner applicators.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a way to protect the grout from frequent staining?
Applying a grout sealer can create a protective barrier, making it harder for stains to penetrate.
Can colored grout be cleaned using the same methods?
Yes, but always conduct a spot test to ensure the cleaning method doesn't alter the grout's color.
Do DIY remedies have an expiry or shelf life once mixed?
Yes, it's best to use DIY mixtures immediately. If stored, they may lose effectiveness over time.