Choosing Grout and Keeping it Clean

Tile is ancient. The Egyptians famously employed its use as early as 4700 B.C. and even today, tile remains popular. And rightly so, the tile is beautiful. At times tile takes on more utilitarian uses, the floors in which we tread, and at other times tile takes on more artistic shapes scattered to form beautiful mosaics.

But with tile comes grout. Grout is that necessary substance that fills the gaps between tiles and works to hold the whole tile structure together. Grout is porous and rough which means it traps dirt and grime and becomes a constant bother to households trying to maintain clean homes and order.

To have a home with clean tile and clean grout lines takes a little effort; allow us to offer you two tips and a suggestion.

Tackling Grout: Hot Water and a Strong Elbow

The first tip for addressing dirty grout is the use of hot water. When it comes to cleaning in general, hot water has a sanitizing and de-soiling effect.

First, hot water kills bacteria and helps promote and maintain a clean environment. But second, hot water actually works to break apart dirt and grime. That means, using hot water to clean the grout lines in your home will help release the grime from your tiles and provide clean lines.

But what also helps in these moments is a little what they call “elbow grease.” In other words, a little scrubbing goes a long way. What some people have done to avoid the labor of scrubbing is the use of a steam mop. A steam mop combines both aspects, hot water, and a little scrubbing action.

Tackling Grout: Powdered Oxygen Bleach and Water

A second tip for tackling grout is the use of powdered oxygen bleach. Powdered oxygen bleach is a really good solution. Unlike chlorine bleach, oxygen bleach is gentle and doesn’t have the strong odor that bleach is notorious for.

The goal is the application, scrubbing with a coarse bristled brush, and then final removal. In fact, using all the techniques mentioned above in combination is likely to be your best option: hot water, oxygen bleach, steam mop. If you follow this process you are on your way to clean grout lines.

Tackling Grout: A Suggestion

A third idea for tackling grout is calling a team of professionals. To accomplish clean grout lines it takes time and work, it’s a laborious task. Scheduling with a team of professionals will help you maintain a clean and hygienic home, it would even be worth inquiring into grout sealing as well.