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Here are some different ways to restore your grout back to it's original look!! It amazes me when tile and grout is installed and it is not standard procedure to complete the job with at least one coat of grout sealer if not two.
If you grout has been sealed, in any and every case the sealer does lose its ability to protect the grout and should be re-applied every year or two.
Ok, back to cleaning grout...
fortunately there are many methods of cleaning grout from do-it-yourself method to hiring a tile and grout specialist that has the proper equipment and cleaning solution.
Most times this is the easiest, fastest and safest way to accomplish this mission.
If you have tile floors in your kitchen, family room, entry way, bathroom or anywhere else in your house, chances are you have struggled with keeping it clean.
The tile is usually easy to clean, its the grout that can get pretty difficult.
If you are willing, with a little elbow grease and the right cleaning solution, you can get your tile and grout looking new again.
There are many ways grout gets dirty.
In the kitchen it is usually a combination of food and grease stains, wine or juice stains and general household traffic,.
The grout in your family room, hallways, and entryways most likely just collects dirt from household traffic.
In the bathroom its usually mold or mildew.
Whatever the cause, if you are planning on cleaning your grout yourself, start off with the simplest and least acidic cleaning solution first.
Then move up to harsher chemical cleaners.
Remember to read the directions and any safety warnings while preparing and before beginning the job.
Its always recommended to completely rinse the area before, between and after applications.
Vinegar or baking soda can be effective cleaners for simple, light stains.
Solution; Vinegar diluted with an equal amount of water, or a past of baking soda and a small amount of water.
Spray or dab onto a small area of grout and scrub with a stiff brush.
Scrubbing in a circular direction is more effective than just straight up and down.
Rinse well with water and mop up any remaining moisture with a sponge or paper towels.
This can be a time and effort consuming effort depending on how dirty the grout is and the type of staining it is.
Household cleaners such as Mr.
Clean, Lysol, or powder-based cleaners can also work on grout.
Remember to use as directed and always rinse well between and after application.
If you have access to a steam cleaner, try using it on your grout but remember the PSI (pounds per square inch) should be no more than 300-500 depending on the grout.
The last thing you want to do is blast your grout right out from between the tiles.
I am sure you were not planning on replacing your grout, just cleaning it.
If your steam machine has a heat setting, go for it! Heat may loosen any oil or grease type stains that your household cleaners can not dissolve.
I do not recommend the use of oxygen bleach powder, hydrogen peroxide, or chlorine bleach unless you are in a well ventilated area and you read the directions and safety warnings carefully.
You may even consider using a mask designed for working with harsh chemicals.
I would call a professional before attempting this job unless it is a small area.
If your still not getting the results you are looking for, it may be time to call a professional cleaner that specializing in tile and grout cleaning.
In most cases a cleaning professional wants to leave you with the results your anticipating and is educated in what cleaning solutions to use and most likely has equipment that is specifically for this type of cleaning.
This may save you time, effort and may be safer.
Tile and Grout cleaning with a professional ranges from .
30 cents a square foot and 1.
00 dollar per square foot depending on the severity of the stained grout.
I always recommend sealing your grout once its back to that original look.
This will protect your grout from staining in most cases and prolong the time between cleanings.
Make sure you purchase the correct type of sealer for your grout.
Most cases there is someone that can answer those type of questions available where your buying your sealer.
Grout sealer should be reapplied every year or two depending on quality of sealer and exposure to staining elements.
There is a product available that has a 10 year life and requires easy maintenance.
It is a color sealer and great for matching or changing the color of your grout.
It gives you that nice clean uniform look.
Call your Tile and Grout Specialist to get the details of this product.
If they have not heard of it, please email us at the address below.
We are happy to help.
General Tips for Grout Cleaning
- Clean grout with water first and allow to dry.
This should remove any loose surface debris. - Do not use bleach on colored grout, it will discolor the grout.
- Always use a stiff brush for scrubbing.
Avoid using metal bristles, they will wear away the grout.
- Always work in a well ventilated room.
- Gloves and protective eye wear are always recommended when using chemical-based cleaners.
- Always test your grout cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area.
Make sure that it does not damage your grout.
This is especially important in your grout is old or damaged. - Never mix cleaners together!! This could result in a chemical reaction that may cause noxious fumes that could cause lung and brain damage or even death.
- Always rinse area well between and after cleaning.
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