How to Clean Grout in Between Tiles
Grout, the mortar that fills the spaces between tiles, can get dirty quickly. It can become stained with dirt, grime, mildew, and even mold. If you're looking for a way to make your tiled floors, walls, and countertops look their best, grout cleaning is essential.
Here's a step-by-step guide to help you clean your grout effectively:
1. Gather Your Supplies
- Cleaning solution: You can use a commercial grout cleaner, a DIY solution (see below), or a baking soda paste.
- Bucket: To mix cleaning solution and hold water.
- Stiff-bristled brush: For scrubbing the grout. An old toothbrush can work well.
- Squeegee or sponge: To remove excess water.
- Microfiber cloth: For drying the tiles.
- Rubber gloves: To protect your hands.
- Safety goggles: To protect your eyes from splashes.
2. Prepare the Area
- Clear the area: Remove any furniture, rugs, or other objects that may be in the way.
- Vacuum: Vacuum the area to remove loose dirt and debris.
- Pre-soak: If the grout is heavily soiled, pre-soak the area with a cleaning solution or water for a few minutes.
3. Apply Cleaning Solution
- Commercial grout cleaner: Follow the instructions on the product label.
- DIY solution: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a bucket.
- Baking soda paste: Combine baking soda with water to form a thick paste.
4. Scrub the Grout
- Apply pressure: Use the stiff-bristled brush to scrub the grout lines, paying attention to areas that are particularly dirty.
- Work in sections: If you have a large area, work in smaller sections at a time.
- Rinse and repeat: Rinse the area with water and scrub again if necessary.
5. Rinse and Dry
- Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the entire area with clean water to remove any cleaning solution residue.
- Dry the tiles: Use a squeegee or sponge to remove excess water. Dry the tiles with a microfiber cloth.
6. Seal the Grout
- Optional: Once the grout is clean and dry, consider sealing it with a grout sealer. This will help prevent future staining and make cleaning easier.
DIY Grout Cleaning Solutions
- Vinegar and baking soda: Mix 1/2 cup of baking soda with 1/2 cup of white vinegar. The mixture will fizz, creating a cleaning paste. Apply the paste to the grout and scrub with a toothbrush. Rinse with water.
- Hydrogen peroxide and baking soda: Combine 1/2 cup of hydrogen peroxide with 1/4 cup of baking soda. Apply to the grout and scrub with a toothbrush. Rinse with water.
Tips for Maintaining Clean Grout
- Clean regularly: Clean your grout regularly to prevent dirt and grime from building up.
- Use a grout sealer: Seal your grout to protect it from stains and make cleaning easier.
- Avoid harsh chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the grout.
- Protect from spills: Clean up spills promptly to prevent staining.
With a little effort and the right cleaning techniques, you can keep your grout clean and your tiles looking their best.
