Tips For How To Clean Stained Grout

Your tiles look beautiful after cleaning, don't you agree? But what about the grout which protects its grace and shine? Grout also needs to be taken care of and needs regular cleaning. Therefore, you cannot ignore dealing with grout stains. Cleaning grout requires more exquisite methods as it is a bit different from cleaning tiles. Grout stains are usually formed due to the dirt and mud that comes from the outdoors getting deposited in the grout area.

Moreover, spills and oil are also responsible for the formation of grout stains. Additionally, spills can develop the growth of various bacteria, mould, and mildew which can be extremely hazardous for your health in the long run. Therefore, you must be aware of the basic grout stain removal methods to get rid of them and prevent further severe damage. It is advised to have a professional tile and grout stain removal once a month.

Methods To Get Rid Of Grout Stains

Here are some of the methods suggested by the professionals in order to get rid of the grout stains. These methods are listed in order of the mildest to the strongest grout stains removal treatments:

Scrubbing With a Brush- The most basic and easiest way to get rid of grout stains is to scrub the stains with a light brush and warm water. Spray some warm water over the grout line and start scrubbing with a brush that has soft bristles. Scrub in a circular motion. Let it dry. This method will completely eliminate light stains or fresh stains.

Treating With Vinegar- For stronger stains, you can make a solution of white vinegar in warm water. Spray it over the grout and let it dry for 5 minutes. Then scrub it with a soft bristled brush for better cleaning. This is the most commonly used method for treating stronger stains like heavier dirt and spill stains.

Applying Baking Soda Paste - For a much stronger stain such as grease stains, it is recommended by professionals to use the baking soda paste. For that, prepare a thick paste of baking soda and warm water. Apply the paste over the greasy area and let it dry for 1 hour. Rinse the stain with plain water. You can also spray white vinegar on the paste for a better outcome. Note: White vinegar should only be used if baking soda paste does not work.

Treatment With Hydrogen Peroxide - For moderate stains, hydrogen peroxides serve as an effective cleaning method. It is easily available at all drug stores. Prepare a paste of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda. Apply it on the stain and let it dry for an hour and then rinse it with plain water.

Applying Oxygen Bleach - For a very tough stain, oxygen bleach is used to get rid of it completely. It is readily available in the market in powdered form. It contains OxiClean, Clorox OxiMagic, and Biokleen Oxy Bleach Plus. You must read the user manual guide thoroughly before you try anything.

It takes generally 10 to 15 minutes for oxygen bleach to do its work. Make sure the area is cleaned before you move further with the bleach cleaning. Apply the bleach following the manual and rinse it with clean water to remove all the dirt and rigid stains.

Using Chlorine Bleach - Chlorine bleach must be used for extreme cases. Basically, you should only use it when every other step fails. If the condition of your grout stain is this severe then it is better that you take professional help instead of doing it on your own because these grout stain removal methods can be dangerous when you do not have the required experience.

Steam Cleaning - To get rid of mild to tough stains, steam cleaning serves as an effective method. Several steam cleaners are available everywhere. It helps to loosen the stain particles which makes it easier to wipe them off.

Using Commercial products - Using commercial products sometimes is also recommended in order to get rid of moderate stains. But before using any commercial products, you must read the instructions properly to avoid any damage and should learn to use them safely. However, if the stain on your grout needs to be removed using commercial products then prefer calling a tile and grout cleaning professional for an affordable price.