Grout isn’t the most important part of your tiled floors, but it does a lot of the work. It keeps your tiles in place even when people walk on them, dirty boots, sandy feet, and drinks are spilled on them. In the North Shore, where people love to be outside and dirt seems to go everywhere, grout lines can quickly change from clean to dirty. The good news is that if you follow a few simple rules, your grout will stay looking fresh and clean for years. More info!
Start with easy, regular maintenance. If you sweep or vacuum your floors often, dirt and other rough particles won’t be able to scrape the tile or wear down the grout. Treat your broom like a close friend. Sweeping often will keep dirt from building up and causing harm over time. After the dirt is gone, use a damp mop (not one that is extremely wet) to clean the tiles. Too much water can get into the grout and cause mold or break the bond, so keep the moisture to a minimum.
Don’t use harsh chemicals immediately away when stains do show up. For most dirt, a stiff-bristled brush and a paste of warm water and baking soda work great. If you scrub softly but firmly, you’ll see even the hardest spots start to come off. If the stains are really bad, try mixing some dish soap with hydrogen peroxide. Put it on the grout, let it sit, and then scrub. You don’t need any pricey cleansers.
Vinegar can also get rid of stains, but be careful when you use it. If your grout isn’t sealed, acidic cleaners like vinegar can wear it down over time. The trick to grout that stays shiny and lasts a long time is sealing it. A excellent sealant keeps stains and moisture out, which makes your regular cleanings work much better. It’s probably time to seal your grout again if you can’t recall the last time you did it. Resealing your roof once a year or so is a good DIY project that will pay you in the long run.
If you have old grout or tiles that have been used for years, getting aid from a pro can make a big difference. High-temperature steam cleaning is what professionals use to get rid of grime, deep-set stains, and bring back the grout’s original shine. After the job is done, most professionals will reseal the grout. This gives you a fresh start and longer-lasting results.
Lastly, always clean up spills right away, especially things like tomato sauce or wine that could leave a stain. Your grout can appear almost as nice as it did the day your tiles were put down if you take care of it once a week.
In the end, it doesn’t have to be hard to keep grout sparkly. Keep up with your cleaning, use sealant to protect your grout, and mop up spills right away. The prize? Floors that are not only gorgeous but also strong enough to handle everything that living on the North Shore throws at them.
Ultra Brite Carpet & Tile Cleaning North Shore
79-83 Longueville Road, Lane Cove NSW 2066
(02) 8015 5143