There is more to maintaining your home’s floors than simply cleaning the tiles. This equally involves cleaning grout, which is the space between tiles. Are you used to scrubbing and cleaning floor tile grout on your hands and knees? If yes, then it can seem like an overwhelming task.
No wonder many people opt for professional tile and grout cleaning services. However, things don’t have to be this way! Yes, you can efficiently and painlessly clean your grout with a few smart trips. Wondering what these simple techniques are? Well, before that, let’s understand the importance of clean floor tiles.
Importance of Clean Floor Tile and Grout
Grouts are more than just the filler in between your tiles; they are essential to the appearance and use of your tiled area. But because grout is porous, it readily collects spills, dirt and grime. As a result, it leaves behind ugly stains that can be difficult to get rid of. However, the majority of individuals regularly clean the grout without realizing that they are causing damage to it.
Wondering why you should keep your tiles and grout clean? Well, because it holds utmost significance both in terms of the integrity of the tiles, it also improves the overall appearance. Moreover, clean tile and grout also contribute to better indoor air quality and eliminate bacteria and allergens.
Why You Shouldn’t Scrub the Floor Tile and Grout?
You must be wondering why many people seek the services of Melbourne tile and grout cleaning when it’s easy to do by yourself. Well, it is more than just buying cleaning supplies and scrubbing the floor. Grout is a hard substance and is used to fill the spaces between tiles.
When you rub the tile’s surface with excessive force, you might end up weakening or harming the grout without knowing. Too much pressure can also make the grout chipped, cracked or discoloured. This means you’ll have to occasionally replace or clean it with professional help.
This will take your time and money and may also affect the way the tiles in the immediate area look. Scrubbing also potentially destroys your grout’s original texture. Moreover, grouts these days are also available in different colors and patterns. This means that if you scrub too hard, you’ll end up making it look dull or washing out its colors.
How to Clean Floor Tile Grout Without Scrubbing
Now that you know the importance of cleaning tile grout, wondering how to clean it without scrubbing?
1. Hydrogen Peroxide
Being a powerful oxidiser, you can use hydrogen peroxide to clean and bleach grout lines. Since it comes without the harshness of chlorine bleach, it doesn’t destroy the tile grout. All you have to do is:
- Take water and hydrogen peroxide equally in a spray container.
- Apply the mixture directly to the grout and let it sit for around 15 minutes.
- Then, wash it off using a fresh cloth.
This is ideal for tiles that are less dirty and have light-colored grout. However, make sure to avoid contact with the skin and eyes since it can cause irritation or burns. For protection, you can wear gloves and avoid touching your eyes.
2. Use Vinegar
When you don’t want to ruin the quality of your tiles by scrubbing excessively, then comes white vinegar. It is a multipurpose cleaner that may keep grout clean without causing any harm to it. All you need to do is:
- Take white vinegar with one part warm water.
- Put it together in a spray bottle.
- Use the solution and apply it to the grout.
- Let it sit for 10 minutes.
- After that, gently scrub it with an old toothbrush.
- Once done, rinse it with fresh water.
This method is best for routine maintenance schedules. Additionally, make sure to avoid dirt accumulation. Besides, if you have natural stone tiles like limestone or marble, keep in mind that it can damage it since it is acidic.
3. Baking Soda Paste
Are the stains on your grout stubborn to remove? Well, instead of scrubbing and spoiling the texture, simply opt for a baking soda paste. Baking soda and water may be your best bet. All you have to do is:
- Mix baking soda and water until it turns into a paste.
- Apply the paste to the grout lines.
- Spray a little vinegar over them.
- Now you’ll see bubbling reactions that will lift the dirt and grime.
- Once the bubbling stops, wipe the area with a sponge or microfiber cloth.
This is ideal for absorbing deep-set stains and is mild enough for various types of tiles. However, make sure to rinse or wipe properly; if not, it will leave a white residue.
4. Oxygen Bleach
When it comes to cleaning your tiles and grout without scrubbing too hard, oxygen bleach is your best choice. It is a powerful cleaner and safe for your floor. For this method, all you need to do is:
- Dissolve oxygen bleach in warm water.
- Saturate the grout lines by pouring the solution over them.
- Let the solution remain for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Next, mop or wipe the area clean using a moist towel.
- Get rid of any remaining bleach by rinsing it off with water.
Make sure not to leave the solution more than needed, as it may destroy the material, especially if sensitive.
5. Alkaline Cleaners
Another best way to clean your tiles and grout without scrubbing is using alkaline cleaners. For this method, all you need to do is:
- Take ½ cup of washing soda and ¼ cup of hot water in a bowl.
- Mix the ingredients until they turn into a fine paste.
- With the help of a cloth or sponge, spread the paste on the grout.
- Let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes.
- To loosen the soil, now scrub gently using a soft-bristled nylon brush.
- Now, rinse the area using cool water and a mop.
- Once done, dry it with an old towel.
When cleaning using soda, make sure to wear protective equipment like gloves. If not, they can cause skin irritation.
Tools You Can Rely on to Clean Floor Tile Grout
Natural cleaning methods are a great way to avoid harsh chemicals but it can be challenging for people with no time. This is when you can rely on the best tools and equipment. Some of these are:
1. Electric Grout Brushes
With electric grout brushes, you can wave goodbye to tedious scrubbing. This tool comes with motorised brush heads that oscillate at high rates. They effectively remove dirt and grime from the grout line without the need for elbow grease.
These tools are ideal for spaces where grout has darkened considerably due to dirt buildup. The best part is that electric grout brushes come with a variety of scrubbing brushes. You must also look for adjustable features to accommodate varying grouts and tile types.
2. Steam Mops
With steam mops, you don’t have to worry about cleaning your tiles with chemicals. Yes, without the need for washing, they thoroughly clean and sanitise the floor. They remove the filth and grime effortlessly that are lodged in the grout lines.
They release a controlled steam flow and eliminate the majority of bacteria and molds. If you want the steam to penetrate deeply for an effective clean, then opt for steam mops with grout-specific attachments.
Achieve Glittering Grout Lines With No Effort
Be it DIY or using tools, taking care of tiles starts with having a thorough understanding. However, worry not! Whether you lack knowledge about your flooring type or lack time, you can always rely on BLD Cleaners. Having equipped professional and trained cleaners, we offer the best services.
In addition to being trained, we also have all the necessary equipment and tools required. From deep cleaning to sealing grout, we can tackle all types of issues. We have all the answers you are looking for, so contact our professional tile & grout cleaners and enjoy a hassle-free experience.
FAQs
1. How to clean hard stains without scrubbing?
Answer: If you’re tired of removing those stubborn stains, then opt for steam cleaning. You can purchase a steam cleaner with a medium tank capacity and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. How to protect your grout from future stains?
Answer: To protect your grout from future stains, you can apply a sealer since it stops dirt accumulation. They act as a barrier and make regular cleaning easier.
3. When should I seek professional help?
Answer: You must consider hiring professionals in bond cleaning Melbourne for situations like heavy stains, sensitive materials, extreme mold or mildew, etc. They can handle any dirt and stains without damaging your floor or tiles.
4. How long does it take to get the tile and grout cleaned?
Answer: The time taken to clean the tile and grout depends on different factors. This includes floor type, floor area, technique used, severity of dirt accumulation, etc. For instance, a 300 square feet area will take 1 to 3 hours to clean.
