Cleaning Tile Grout | Tile Grout | Tile Floor Cleaning

Cleaning tile grout in bathroom showers, bathtubs, and on floors is one of those task that has to be performed from time to time. The grout gets dirty when the pores of the grout are filled with dust and dirt.

Tile grout cleaning is a challenge for most homeowners as the dirt is difficult to get rid of. The basic cleaning equipment to clean tile grout is a hard bristle brush, a good floor cleaner detergent, and elbow grease. Powered equipment is available but it doesn’t do any better job than the old fashion way of scrubbing.

There are many grout cleaners and professional commercial companies that specialize in grout cleaning but any DIY homeowner can do the same thing using common house hold cleaning products. It is essential to keep the grout of your home clean for several reasons. First, if you keep it clean, it will help you to have a highly valued and good looking home. Secondly, clean grout will last longer and keep you from having to deal with costly repairs.

The following cleaning tips are offered for the cleaning tile floors:

• Mild detergent
• White vinegar
•  Clorox bleach
• Scrubbing brush
• Terry cloths for wiping
• Eye protective glasses

Cleaning the Grout:

1. Work a small area at a time so that you can dry the area as you go, keeping the grout as clean as possible throughout the time frame. Clean tile floor grout and bathtub / shower grout the same way.  

2. Make a cleaning solution by combining one half cup of mild detergent to two gallons of water.

3. Place the solution onto a small area.

4. Scrub the solution into the grouted areas using a bristle brush.

5. Soak up the liquid.

6. Dry the grout with a dry terry cloth.

7. Continue on to the next area.

8. When cleaning grouted areas that are on surfaces that are not able to be scrubbed with a bristle bush use a small brush such as a toothbrush.

9. Tile grout stains can be removed by using a product that is specifically designed for it. These products are the most ideal for cleaning stains. When using grout stain remover follow the manufacturer’s directions carefully.  Isopropyl alcohol or white vinegar can be just as effective as commercial products. Blot them onto the stain and use elbow grease to scrub at the stained area. In most cases the stain will come off. If it doesn’t the stains may be permanent.

10. Bleaching grout can cause the grout to be lightened in intensity. Bleach can be effective in removing stains however the grout should be a light shade as well as the tile.  Bleach may discolor the area around the grout so it should be used with care.