Read about the top 5 ways to keep grout clean and shiny
As homeowners, we have to deal with dirty grout one day or the other. You can find it anywhere from kitchen countertops, on the wall behind the stove, or in your bathroom.
New grout is attractive. However, with time and poor maintenance, it can become a germ-accumulating pain in the neck. No one wants to deal with the notorious grout cleaning process, but it is an integral part of keeping the home neat. Read ahead to learn what grout is and how to clean it in a few simple ways.
What is Grout?
- The space filler between tiles is known as grout. It a porous surface and has a rough texture. It is made of water, cement, and colorant. It is used to fill the space between tiles to keep them intact.
Since it has a rough texture and creates a space between the tiles, it can quickly accumulate dirt and look nasty. Due to the differences in the structure of the surface, it is not as easy to clean and requires special cleaning techniques.
- However, grout is also sensitive. Cleaning it the wrong way may damage the tile around it. To follow the best grout cleaning techniques, here’s what you need to do.
Regular Cleaning
- You can maintain your grout by removing the loose dirt around it. For that, start by sweeping with a brush or a dry mop. You can also use a microfiber cloth to get the job done. Once all the dirt is removed from all the grout, wipe it down with hot water. Hot water will help break down some grime and remove any leftover dirt.
After which, ensure the area is dry as you apply grout cleaner. Any standing water would not let the cleaner work its entire course of action.
Scrub it
After sweeping, rinsing, and drying the grout, apply a scrubbing cleaner. Scrubbing will clean the grout deeply. You can use any commercially available product and follow the pack instructions to clean the grout.
However, we recommend following these safety rules:
- Often time grout cleaning products are acidic and caustic. Due to this, it is ideal to wear eye protection and gloves to keep you safe.
- Wear a mask and keep the windows open in case of any fumes.
After applying the grout cleaner, let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes. Afterward, you can scrub it using a toothbrush and some elbow grease. The most effective way to scrub is in circular motions. This will remove the dirt buildup and protect your grout from damage.
Try a DIY Scrub
If you are not a fan of chemical cleaners, you can also make a DIY grout scrub which can be made from some of the ingredients in your pantry. All you would need is:
- Vinegar
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Lemon
Mix these up to create your cleaning solution and clean using the abovementioned method.
Use a Grout Colorant
- Sometimes cleaning may not be enough. However, you can use a simple grout colorant to do the job for you. Similar to paint, grout colorants can refresh the look of your grout.
Following package instructions, you must apply the paint in the cracks and crevices. Clean the excess paint on the tile before it dries out. Otherwise, it might permanently stain and ruin your tiles.
Keep It Dry
Moisture finds homes in cracks. If you want to avoid mold from developing in your grout, you should always keep it dry. To do that, you can:
Turn on vents after showers
- Keep rugs
- Fix leaks
- Use a microfiber cloth to wipe away
- Seal the grout
Finally, Call the Professionals
Save your money from all the experimenting and give the professionals a call. They can clean your grout without damaging the tiles, pick the right grout paint for you and follow the best cleaning practices needed.
Call the best tile and grout cleaning service in Las Vegas today! Contact Love Your Carpets at +1 702-898-6070 to get a quote.