Getting the Facts About Cleaning Your Grout

Tile can add a look of luxury to virtually any room in your home. Unfortunately, dirty grout can affect the appearance of tile flooring, backsplashes, tubs, and showers, which in turn can result in your tile surfaces looking old, dingy, or faded. Although professional grout cleaning is the best and easiest way to deal with stubborn grout stains, keeping grout looking good starts with you. Here are some things you should know about cleaning and maintaining your grout. These facts and tips will be helpful for keeping your grout looking like new after the grout cleaner you hire in Tampa is finished giving your tile and grout surfaces a facelift.

Test a Hidden Area Before Cleaning

When cleaning grout, it’s best to start off with the mildest cleaning solution (i.e. plain water and a stiff-bristled brush) and move up to stronger methods and solutions, such as oxygen bleach and steam cleaners. It’s also a good idea to test the cleaning solution or method in a hidden spot so you can tell whether it will damage or discolor your grout.

Wipe Down Grout Once a Week

As a bit of routine grout maintenance, it’s a good idea to spray it with vinegar and wipe it down at least once a week. Just a few spritzes of vinegar each week can keep mold and mildew at bay, and can also help preserve the attractive appearance of your tile surfaces in the process.

Use Caustic Cleaners Sparingly

Chlorine bleach and commercial cleansers are typically reserved for tougher stains and really grimy grout, but these products should be used sparingly to avoid damaging your grout. Long-term use of caustic cleaners can cause grout to erode. For really bad grout, hire a professional grout cleaning service in Tampa instead of dousing it with a caustic cleaning solution that might end up doing more harm than good in the long run.