Grout isn’t just the filling between the tile but it is an important part of the tile aesthetics. Despite the nature of the tile, the cleaner the grout is, the more beautiful the appearance will be. This is why choosing the best grout cleaners is essential. They can help you keep your tile in a pristine look for longer. Grout may seem a smaller detail but it is important in several ways. It is usually white and has a porous surface.
The texture is much like a worn-out sandpaper. It is a mixture of colorant, cement, water, and sand. Unsanded grout is found in spaces less than 18 inches. Sanded grout is available in spaces bigger than 18 inches. Grout helps the tile to stick to the surface while filling the gaps. The grout cleaners help you to clean the grout lines most efficiently so they will not look worn out, or torn out, and even more, they will help the tile to stay in its place for longer.
But grout cleaning can be a daunting task. Following, we have discussed the best information regarding grout, grout cleaners, and how to clean it. Keep reading for more information.
Before we talk about the grout cleaning, let’s understand the types of tiles and grout you may be working with. Not all tile grout are the same and different materials require different care. Understanding the types of your installation will help you choose the right grout cleaner.
Types of Grout:
Here are the most common types of Grout:
Sanded Grout
Sanded grout is often used in wider joints to add stability. However, it has a porous surface which is why it is prone to staining and discoloration.
Unsanded Grout
It is widely used for newer joints that don’t contain any sand. Though the surface is smoother it still can get dirty.
Epoxy Grout
Epoxy grout resists stains and water, so it’s good for areas with a lot of moisture. Even though it doesn’t need as much cleaning, regular maintenance still helps.
Each grout type is different and they require a specific cleaning approach. Understanding what type of grout you have to deal with will help you select the right grout cleaners for maintaining and cleaning beautiful surfaces.
How to Select the Best Grout Cleaner?
Once you understand different types of tiles and grout, you will need to find the best grout cleaner accordingly. There are several factors to consider in this regard. Every grout cleaner is different and some may be too harsh for your tile surface. While others may not be too effective in general. Here’s how to make the right choice:
Know Your Tile Material
First of all, you will need to understand the type of the tile. This will help you in selecting the best grout cleaner. Acidic cleaners, for instance, are too harsh for natural stone tiles. They can damage and stain the stone tile surface. Opting for a pH-neutral cleaner like Deep Degreaser For Natural Stone is recommended for natural stone tiles to avoid any damage. In contrast, ceramic and porcelain tiles are more resilient and they can handle more aggressive cleaning solutions.
Check for Harsh Chemicals
Different grout cleaners contain strong chemicals. They can emit harmful smells or cause damage to the grout or tile. Fila grout haze remover and Fila heavy-duty cleaners have been formulated without the use of aggressive chemicals or odors. That’s why they are an attractive choice for households with allergies, health problems, or kids. These grout cleaning products are available in the market and if one is looking for non-toxic fumes while cleaning then it is a good option. You want to find eco-friendly or low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) choices that not only work but also are safer for your home.
Consider the Purpose
Grout cleaners have different types and purposes. They are used for heavy cleaning like mildew or limescale to more regular maintenance. Opt for a pH-neutral detergent or regular cleaner to clean the dust and dirt. If the grout is discolored or stains are tough to clean then use a heavy-duty pH-neutral stain remover like Oxidant Stain Remover For Porcelain Surfaces and Mar Gel Plus Stain Plus For Natural Stone.
Dilution and Multi-Use Cleaners
Some natural stone cleaners can be used as a detergent when combined with water. They can be a convenient option for difficult cleaning. A multi-purpose cleaner can be a great long-term investment for grout maintenance.
Step-by-Step Grout Cleaning Tips
After selecting the best grout cleaner you will need to clean the grout. Here is a simple way to do it.
Prep the Area
Preparing the selected surface is important. Before you begin cleaning, prepare the surface by removing any loose dirt and debris from the grout. You can sweep or vacuum the surface for more convenience. This will assure you that you are not pushing dirt and grime more into the grout.
Apply the Cleaner
Now apply or spray the selected grout cleaner directly onto the grout lines. Let it sit for a few minutes so the cleaner will penetrate and break down any dirt or stains. If you aren’t sure about working with it follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Scrub the Grout
Scrub the grout lines by using a stiff-bristled brush or a grout cleaning tool. Focus on the stubborn stains first and rub it hard to break any grime. For deeper stains, you may need to reapply the cleaner and scrub again.
Rinse and Dry
Once the grout has got its original color and looks clean then rinse the area with clean water. Remove any remaining residue. Wipe the area with a clean towel or cloth to prevent water stains.
Seal the Grout (Optional)
You should seal your grout after cleaning it if you want it to stay looking good. By doing this, you’ll prevent dirt and stains from seeping into the grout. You can use natural stone sealers like Aqua Treatment Natural Stone Sealer and Hidro SST Natural Stone Sealer.
Why Grout Cleaning is Essential?
Now you have got the idea of selecting the right grout cleaner. Natural stone tiles such as travertine tile maintenance is incomplete without considering the importance of grout cleaning. You may not give too much importance while doing this. So, here are the top reasons why grout cleaning is essential in your home care routine:
Prevents Discoloration and Stains
As grouts are porous, they easily soak up dirt, moisture, and filth, which might become discolored over time. Often mopping the grout will ensure that dust and dirt do not build up. Otherwise, your grout would always be as bright and fresh as friends and family’s on day one. You have filthy, broken, or loose tile.
Prolongs the Life of Your Tiles
Whatever tile type you have installed, if the grout is dirty then it will make your tile dirty and damaged. Accumulation of dirt and grime can weaken the grout and cause it to crack. If you are noticing damaged or loose tile then it is because of dirty grout. Regular grout cleaning will help you maintain the structural integrity of your tile installation.
Improves Indoor Air Quality
Mold and mildew are common occurrences in damp areas such as kitchens and bathrooms. Grout is a perfect place for them to grow. These fungi will not only discolor grout but release spores into the air. This can be a serious problem for air quality. Grout cleaning with a cleaner that is designed to remove mild mildew can help you keep the air quality better.
Enhances Aesthetics
Your tile is a special investment that can enhance the charm and curb appeal of your house. If the grout lines are clean and white, it can enhance the look of the tile surface. Whether it’s in the kitchen, bathroom, or outdoor areas, bright, color tiles will look fresher and more inviting with clean grout. Similarly, dirty grout can make even the prettiest tiles look dingy.
Maintains Property Value
When you maintain the grout and tile regularly then it will increase the value of your home. Putting your house on the market that has clean and well-preserved surfaces is prone to sell earlier. Such house sales can even give you more profit. Regular grout cleaning ensures your tile installations remain a valuable asset to your property.
Bottom Line
Grout lines can enhance the beauty of the tile installation but they are prone to get dirty. Even if you opt for high-quality grout materials, they will look damaged and dirty if not maintained properly. Best Grout cleaners can help you to keep the grout looking clean and good for longer. Always opt for the best grout cleaner for the best results. Your tiles are expansive and the purpose of installation will be ruined if the grout looks dull and damaged. So maintain a clean-looking grout so they will enhance the beauty of your house for longer. Read also our blog on How to clean and maintain different types of tiles.
