3 Tips for Cleaning Grout

What is Grout?

Grout is the mixture of cement, water, and sand that is used to keep the tiles in place.That’s all it is. But you may notice that the tiles in your bathroom shower, and dining room and kitchen floors, can get pretty dirty. Sometimes cleaning grout in tiles with a mop just isn’t enough. If the grout is in your shower, well then it’s nearly impossible to mop your shower wall. Unless you’re trying to pull your back out. In that case, it might work for you.

Cleaning your tiles regularly will prevent heavy buildup and make deep cleaning grout much easier. Below are the deep cleaning methods I want to share with you. So just keep in mind, that you should still be cleaning regularly, whether that means mopping the floor or wiping down your shower walls.

Cleaning Methods

For centuries, homeowners were searching for an easy technique to help them clean their tiles properly. So they began to create their own. And low and behold, they work! People started to use cheap yet effective materials to avoid putting a dent in their budget, and in their back. Aside from the ingredients listed below, one of the main things you should have when attempting these methods is a toothbrush. I promise you, it’s a lifesaver.

• Vinegar and Ammonia

To make this solution, you’ll need white vinegar (1/4 cup), baking soda (1/2), ammonia (1/3 cup) and warm water (7 cups). Mix them together slowly until the baking soda has dissolved. Take an empty spray bottle and fill it up with the solution. Cover the tiles in small areas, about 1-2 square feet each. Spray on the grout and allow the solution to sleep in for roughly 5 minutes. When the grout is damp enough, use your toothbrush (see why I said it’s a lifesaver?) to scrub the area. You may have to put in a little elbow grease until the dirt comes off.

• Baking Soda & Hydrogen Peroxide

Create a paste in a small bowl, using baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Make sure that the thickness is consistent. You don’t want it too watery so try to balance the ingredients with a 1:1 ratio. Have your toothbrush ready and begin to spread the mixture over the area. Cover small areas until you have covered the grout. Let the paste set for 10 minutes so it can better coat the grout. After the allotted time, scrub the grout firmly with the toothbrush. When you have covered every tile, do a regular cleanup again with vinegar and water.

• Oxygen Bleach

In a small bowl, prepare a mixture of oxygen bleach. Bear in mind that the oxygen bleach is not a toxic material. It is considered a safe bleaching compound which can whiten grout while dissolving grime and bacteria. Pour warm water into the bowl and pour a considerable amount of oxygen bleach. Mix it until the powder has dissolved. Transfer the liquid into aspray bottle covering the area you will be working on. Let the solution sit on the grout for 20 minutes, and scrub with your toothbrush.

Important Note: Do not your solutions remain the grout. After each deep clean and scrub, get a damp cloth with vinegar and wipe the tiles clean.