Are you wondering how to clean grout? Well, cleaning grout with the right grout cleaner is indeed a tedious task if you do not know the secret of the trade. Sure, it is still going to be hard work, but there are proven methods for cleaning tile and grout faster, safer, and for less money.
Cleaning tile grout is one of the hardest to clean item in the household. Unlike tiles which are smooth, grouts have small unseen pores where dirt and fungi lodge. Through time, with improper cleaning method, dirt will be pushed deeper and deeper into the grout staining it and give the grout a dirty and dingy appearance.
Here are some helpful tips for a speedy grout cleaning:
Tip # 1 – You need to choose the right grout cleaner. Expensive does not mean effective. Ask friends or relatives for cleaners they have tried. If not, experiment yourself. Do not be afraid to explore. You may try one cleaner at a time. Your goal is to find a cleaner that suits your taste and if you find one, stick to it unless there is a new and effective one that can replace your old.
Tip # 2 – Always follow directions as written on the label. Do not exceed the time allotted for the soaking or else the cleaner may have a damaging effect to your tile and grout. Do not also rinse grout before too early. The cleaner may not have yet done with the loosening of the dirt embedded in the grout.
Tip # 3 – Use the proper tools in cleaning the grout. More often, many house helps complained of ineffective grout cleaners while all the while it is not the cleaner that is the problem but they themselves. Improper tools cannot clean grouts that are stained. One must use a sturdy nylon brush when scrubbing grouts. Its bristles can reach into the small holes of the grout and be able
to clean it efficiently. Sponges and mops will not be as effective in this type of job. You will only end up repeating the whole process without the desired result.
Tip # 4 – Aside from the regular scrubbing, you must have a daily maintenance of your grout. Some would advise spraying the tiles and grouts with 50/50 solution of white vinegar and water after everyone has done using the place. This will eliminate build up of dirt and minimize the growth of fungi thus preventing the grimes and scum to accumulate. This will make your scheduled grout scrubbing a breeze.
Tip # 5 – Of course,knowing ho to clean grout is not enough, you must have a regular cleaning schedule. Do not let dirt and grime accumulate for a long period of time. Some experts would advise that once a month scrubbing is long enough to give a hard day’s work in scrubbing your grout. Twice a month schedule is advisable. With regular scrubbing, your grout will have less dirt embedded in it thus it will less likely to develop stains that are very hard to remove.
In addition to all these, no matter how effective your grout cleaners are and you may have the best tools and always follow the regular schedule for your grout cleaning, but if you are not motivated, everything will be a drag. So, cheer up! You may sing while scrubbing or play your favorite tune on an iPod or MP4, whichever suits you. The goal is, you are enjoying while doing one of household’s toughest job!