The Ultimate Guide To Cleaning And Maintaining Grout

Grout is great to keep tiles in place and prevent water from penetrating the interior of the walls. Due to its porous nature, this substance doesn’t only stain easily but also trap soap scum, grime, and dirt. Thus, keeping it clean and free of mildew or mould might require a lot of effort and time.

The key to cleaning and maintaining grout is to start with the mildest products and only use to solutions if necessary. Though this might take more time, it would help preserve the surface for many years without damage.

In this guide, we’ll show you some simple methods to clean and maintain grout in your bathroom or kitchen. Read on to learn more about the easiest way to clean grout without scrubbing.

3 effective methods to clean grout

1. Steam clean

The most eco-friendly and easiest way to clean grout scrubbing is to use a steam cleaner. This device can sanitize and get rid of all mildew and mould in all types of grouts and tiles without any harmful chemicals. You can visit the local cleaning store and buy or rent a machine for this task. Keep in mind to choose the right attachments to clean grout, including a small brush and a steam hose.

All you need to do is to turn on the machine and move the steam hose back and forth at the grout lines. Keep in mind to start from the corner and gradually work towards the other part of the space. The heated steam can lift the grime and dirt from the surface, as well as eliminate any mould or mildew. Once everything has done, wipe up excess moisture with a mop or towel.

2. Use chlorine bleach

Chlorine bleach is a traditional method to clean grout in many households. For the best results, you just need to dip a brush into the solution and scrub thoroughly on the grout lines. After that, rinse off the surface with clean water.

As grout brushes often splatter and chlorine bleach is a strong chemical, keep in mind to wear old clothes and safety glasses. Also, open all of the windows to allow for good ventilation. Bleach is relatively toxic and can release noxious fumes which would change the shades of coloured grout lines over time.

Due to these drawbacks, you should consider chlorine bleach as the last resort rather than a daily cleaning solution.

3. Apply oxygen bleach

Unlike chlorine bleach, this substance is non-toxic and environmentally-friendly as it is a compound comprised of soda crystals and hydrogen peroxide. Also, oxygen doesn’t contain any harsh odours and won’t stain your coloured grout. It is necessary to know that hydrogen peroxide is a type of oxygen bleach in diluted forms, making it quite ineffective in cleaning.

Most oxygen bleach products are available in powder form which can be combined with water to create a cleaning solution. Just apply the mixture directly to grout and wait for at least 10 minutes before using a brush to scrub. After that, rise off the surface and wipe it with a clean cloth.

Useful tips to maintain the grout

1. Spray mould inhibitor

There are a few spray solutions that you can make on your own to help prevent mould or mildew from growing. These include hydrogen peroxide, water and tea tree oil, or water and vinegar. Make sure to apply one of these solutions to the grout lines at least 2 to 3 times per week.

2. Wipe with alcohol

In addition to these solutions, you can also wipe alcohol on grout lines with a clean cloth. It contains a substance called isopropyl, which can create a protective layer against mildew and mould.

3. Dry the surface after every use

The easiest way to keep grout always new and clean is to remove excess water from the surface. After a shower or bath, it is advisable to wipe down the bath or shower walls with a squeegee or old towel. This can also help prevent dirt or grime from building up.

4. Seal the grout

After a few years, you should re-seal grout to protect it against harmful components such as moisture, mildew, dirt, or mould. You could do it easily with the help of a paint brush. After applying the sealant, let it air dry.