Tile & Grout Cleaning: A Handy Guide

by Abhinav G. Movie Enthusiast

Grout is the name given to mortar that is used to attach tiles to floors and walls. There are many colours available for grout, but white is the most popular. This makes it easy to see when grout is dirty. Grout that hasn't been cleaned in a while can lead to unhealthy black mold growth. Why? Grout is porous and tiles can be found in moist areas such as bathrooms and kitchens. These are the ideal conditions for mould or fungus to thrive. To minimize mold growth in your home, it is important to know how to clean and maintain bathroom tiles .

The easiest way to clean grout is to use a grout pen to cover any stains with liquid paint. Once you have mastered the process of cleaning grout in shower tiles, you will be able to clean grout from floor tiles. These are our recommendations for the best tile and grout cleaning methods for bathrooms and kitchens, as well as how to avoid similar issues in the future.

You should not only treat mould-ridden grout when it becomes ugly. Instead, clean between tiles regularly with a commercial cleaner. Just make sure to follow the directions on the label. This will decrease the chance of mould developing and will drastically reduce the time spent scrubbing.

How to clean tile grout with bleach

Protect your hands and clothing before you start. Make sure to open all windows to allow airflow. Also, ensure you read the safety instructions on any cleaning products that you are going use.

Regular bleach is not recommended for grout with coloured grout as it will slowly fade the colour. Some types of tiles (marble, for instance) can be damaged by bleach. Make sure to check first. However, bleach is highly effective in preventing mold and mildew growth of white, cream, or light-grey grout. Simply:

To remove bathroom grout, use a dilute solution of bleach. A toothbrush works well because it can reach small crevices.
You can also apply oxygen bleach solution (equal parts warm water and powdered bleach) to the area via a spray bottle.
After rinsing the area, let it air dry.
Never mix bleach with other cleaning products. Follow the instructions on the label.

How to Clean Tile Grout Naturally

You don't want to use commercial products to prevent mold and mildew growth or you are unable to use bleach due to the tiles in your home, then you might consider the natural method below. Just make sure to do a test area first.

Make a paste of bicarbonate soda and white vinegar, and apply it to the grout.
Allow the paste to work its magic in the grout for at least 30 minutes.
To remove stains, use an old toothbrush.
Let the grout dry with cold water.

SAFETY WARNING

Biocides can be safely used. Before using biocides, always read the label.

Prevention of Mildew and Mould Growth

It is best to minimize the chance of grout moulding in the first place. This is what you should do:

All rooms with tiles should be well ventilated. To remove humidity, open windows or use extractor fans.
After every bath or shower, dry bathroom tiles with an old towel. Splash-backs should be dried in the same manner.
Following the instructions on the label, apply an antibacterial/antifungal product to the grout on a regular basis.
You can prevent grout from becoming mouldy by using Jif Ultra Fast bathroom spray to clean it.
Use a commercial grout cleaner, an Oxy Bleach solution, or a natural grout cleanser.
To scrub between tiles, use a toothbrush.
Use cold water to rinse off any residue.