How to Clean Grout in Shower UK
Grout is a porous material that can easily become stained and discolored, especially in high-moisture areas like showers. This can make your shower look dirty and unhygienic. Fortunately, cleaning grout in your UK shower is a relatively straightforward task. Here's how to do it:
1. Gather Your Supplies
- Cleaning solution: You can use a commercial grout cleaner or make your own by mixing baking soda, white vinegar, and water.
- Scrubbing brush: Choose a brush with stiff bristles to effectively remove dirt and grime.
- Old toothbrush: This is useful for reaching tight spaces.
- Microfiber cloth or sponge: For wiping away the cleaning solution and excess water.
- Rubber gloves: Protect your hands from the cleaning solution.
- Optional: Grout sealer: This helps to protect the grout and make it easier to clean in the future.
2. Prepare the Shower
- Remove any loose items: Take out bath mats, shower curtains, and any other items that might be in the way.
- Pre-clean the shower: Give the shower a quick rinse with water to loosen any dirt and debris.
3. Apply the Cleaning Solution
- Choose your method: If using a commercial cleaner, follow the instructions on the bottle.
- For a DIY solution: Combine baking soda, white vinegar, and water in a bowl until you have a paste.
- Apply the solution: Apply the cleaner to the grout using a scrub brush or toothbrush.
4. Scrub the Grout
- Scrub thoroughly: Work the cleaning solution into the grout, using circular motions.
- Pay attention to the corners and edges: These areas are often more prone to dirt buildup.
- Let the solution sit: Allow the cleaning solution to sit for a few minutes to loosen the dirt.
5. Rinse and Wipe
- Rinse the grout: Use a shower head or a bucket of water to rinse away the cleaning solution and dirt.
- Wipe the grout: Use a microfiber cloth or sponge to dry the grout.
6. Seal the Grout (Optional)
- Apply grout sealer: After the grout is completely dry, apply a grout sealer to protect it from stains and make it easier to clean in the future.
- Follow the instructions on the sealer bottle: Most sealers require several coats for optimal protection.
Tips for Cleaning Grout
- Wear gloves: Protect your hands from the cleaning solution.
- Use a gentle touch: Don't scrub the grout too hard, as this can damage it.
- Clean regularly: The best way to prevent grout from becoming discolored is to clean it regularly.
- Consider a steam cleaner: Steam cleaners can be an effective way to clean grout, as the steam can loosen dirt and grime.
By following these simple steps, you can easily clean the grout in your shower and keep it looking its best.
