Tile and Grout Cleaning – How to Keep Your Tiles and Grout Clean

Stains and discoloration in your tile or grout lines aren’t just unsightly; they can signal bacteria accumulation, mildew formation, or even mold. These are indicators that it’s time for a thorough cleaning.

Whether you use a manufactured cleaner or create a natural cleaning solution of your own, start with sweeping to remove loose dirt.

Cleaning Method

Tile is a durable surface that makes for strong kitchen countertops, shower walls, and bathroom floors. It is also relatively easy to keep clean with a mop or sponge and an all purpose kitchen or bathroom cleaner. Regular cleaning prevents the buildup of mold and mildew, as well as soap scum and grime that can leave tiles looking dull or stained.

For those who want to go the extra mile, professional stone, tile, and grout cleaning is an excellent option. The Chem-Dry system uses a powerful yet safe solution to remove dirt and grime from the pores of your grout while leaving the tile itself unharmed. The primary cleaner for this service is an eco-friendly, plant based formula that contains no harmful chemicals or dyes. The ingredients are non-toxic, biodegradable, and derived from natural sources such as coconut and corn.

This product is effective on a variety of surfaces, including ceramic, porcelain, and slate. It is safe to use in the tub or shower, and it can handle mildew and mold stains, as well as general dirt buildup.

When using this product, be sure to test a small patch before applying to a larger area. Once applied, you should notice a bubbling effect as the cleaner works its magic on your grout. This bubbleing should last a few minutes and once it subsides, you can continue to scrub the affected area with a nylon bristled brush (like a dishwashing brush or old toothbrush).

For best results, use a hard-bristled brush that is specifically designed for tile and grout cleaning. This ensures that the bristles don’t wear down or become damaged, and it allows you to get into those tough-to-reach areas where dirt tends to accumulate. After scrubbing, rinse the area with clean water. This will remove any residue left by the cleaner and allow you to see if any spots need more attention.

Preparation

Keeping your tile and grout clean extends their lifespan, saving you money on costly replacement or repairs. Regular cleaning can also prevent the buildup of grime, mildew, soap scum and other damaging agents. To keep your tile and grout in top shape, follow these simple steps to mimic the process used by professional cleaners.

Clear the area: Before you begin your cleaning, vacuum or sweep the floor to remove loose dirt and debris. This will help prevent scratching your tiles and rugs during the cleaning process. Vacuuming also helps dislodge any stubborn dirt particles that may be lingering in the cracks of your grout lines.

Preparing the surface: Vacuum or sweep again to ensure your surfaces are free of any remaining dirt and dust. Sweeping will also help eliminate any pools of water that can damage your tile, and allow you to see any areas where extra scrubbing may be needed.

Applying the cleaning solution: Apply a pH-balanced cleaner to the surface of your grout using a scrubbing brush or microfiber mop. Use a circular motion to work the cleaner into the pores of your grout, focusing on any heavily stained or discolored areas. Allow the solution to sit on your grout for a few minutes before scrubbing again. Scrub until your grout is clean and rinse the area thoroughly with a wet mop or cloth.

If your grout still looks dull or discolored, it’s time to add a little bleach to the mix. Wear rubber gloves and open a window, and be sure to use bleach in a well-ventilated room. Be careful not to combine bleach with other cleaning products, as it can react violently and release toxic fumes. Once your grout is clean, you can replace the protective sealant that was applied by your professional.

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