What is the Best Way to Clean Bathroom Floor Grout?
Dirty grout can make even the cleanest bathroom look dingy and unhygienic. But with the right tools and techniques, you can get your grout sparkling white again.
Why is Grout So Hard to Clean?
Grout is a porous material that absorbs dirt, grime, soap scum, and even mold and mildew. This makes it difficult to clean effectively with just a broom or mop.
The Best Way to Clean Grout
Here's a step-by-step guide to cleaning your bathroom floor grout:
1. Gather Your Supplies:
- Cleaning solution: You can use a commercial grout cleaner, or make your own using baking soda, vinegar, and water.
- Scrub brush: Choose a brush with stiff bristles that can get into the grout lines.
- Old toothbrush: This is great for reaching tight corners and around fixtures.
- Squeegee: This will help you remove excess cleaning solution and water.
- Bucket: For mixing your cleaning solution and rinsing your tools.
- Microfiber cloth: For wiping down the floor after cleaning.
- Gloves: To protect your hands from the cleaning solution.
2. Prepare the Area:
- Remove any rugs, mats, or other items from the bathroom floor.
- Clear any clutter or obstacles.
3. Apply the Cleaning Solution:
- Commercial grout cleaner: Follow the instructions on the product label.
- DIY grout cleaner: Mix 1/2 cup baking soda, 1/2 cup vinegar, and 1/2 cup water in a bucket.
- Apply the solution generously to the grout lines using a sponge or brush.
- Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to loosen the dirt and grime.
4. Scrub the Grout:
- Use a scrub brush to scrub the grout lines vigorously.
- Pay close attention to areas with heavy stains or discoloration.
- Use an old toothbrush to reach tight corners and around fixtures.
5. Rinse the Floor:
- Rinse the floor thoroughly with clean water to remove all traces of cleaning solution.
- Use a squeegee to remove excess water and prevent water damage.
6. Dry the Floor:
- Wipe the floor dry with a microfiber cloth.
7. Apply Grout Sealer:
- Applying a grout sealer after cleaning can help prevent future stains and discoloration.
- Follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying the sealer.
Additional Tips:
- For stubborn stains, try using a paste made from baking soda and water.
- Use a grout brush with a long handle to avoid bending over.
- Work in small sections to prevent the cleaning solution from drying out.
- If you're using a commercial grout cleaner, make sure it is safe for your type of flooring.
- Clean your grout regularly to prevent the buildup of dirt and grime.
By following these simple steps, you can clean your bathroom floor grout and make your bathroom look its best!
