Grout is the substance between the tiles that is used as joint sealants to fill in any empty spaces. Tiles are used in most places in the house including countertops, kitchen floors, bathroom walls and showers.
Bathrooms grouts are more susceptible to mildew and molds because of the damp and warm environment prone to mold growths making the grouts look dirty and also exposing you from microbes and allergens.
Kitchens are also susceptible to frequent spills that can quickly contribute making the grout in the dirty tiles. It is important to cover the grouts with sealants upon tile installations but somehow, in time, mildew and molds will again penetrate the grout.
Home owners should know how to clean their tiles and get rid of the grouts. Here are some tips that you can use to do this:
- Go to home improvement stores where in you can find numerous grout and tile cleaners with several brands. It is also advisable to read all the instructions and warnings to ensure that you have selected the appropriate cleaner.
- Take note that these cleaners are usually available in concentrate solution that will require you to dissolve it before using it. Carefully read the instructions by diluting the solution according to the given instruction to avoid damaging the grout and the tiles.
- The instructions also vary according to the different brand of the cleaner. However, there are very basic guidelines common for grout cleaners.
- It is advisable to wear latex or rubber gloves and safety goggles and open the windows to prevent exposures to the harsh chemical fumes of bleach-containing solutions.
- Wipe any excess wet build up with paper towels or a white terry cloth before cleaning. But if the grout is crumbling, then you should try replacing it. .
- It is recommended to wet the tile surface before starting the cleaning procedures. This step is essential because the cleaner is a made to clean surfaces and not as penetrating cleansers to avoid grout damage.
- Apply the grout cleaner using a soft brush to loosen the debris and dirt after soaking the tiles with water. Leave the cleaner for about ten minutes.
- Thoroughly rinse the tiles with water removing all the cleaners. Apply a grout sealant using a small paintbrush once the tiles have dried totally to protect it until the next cleaning process.
It is really important to clean the house, especially those areas prone to mildew and mold build up like the grout, not just to protect it from dirt but also to give a safer and healthier environment for every household member.