Tile floors and walls are common in residential and commercial settings, and while tile is well suited to these environments due to their durability and cleanability, the grout in between can be a major challenge to keep clean. In this blog we’ll discuss why grout is so hard to clean, and what you can do to keep yours sparkling.
Why is Grout So Hard to Keep Clean?
First and foremost, grout is porous. If you look at grout closely, it resembles a sponge, so liquids can penetrate and stain grout easily. In addition, it is typically recessed below the level of the tile, which makes these liquids collect on top of the grout. Because liquids sit on grout and penetrate it, grout can be a breeding ground for odor and bacteria. Think of urine in a bathroom and where it is most likely to sit and be absorbed.
How To Clean Stained Grout
An intensive deep cleaning of grout is often necessary to bring it back to a clean, hygienic appearance. It takes some elbow grease, but it can be done on your own if done carefully and with the right chemicals.
If you aren’t sure about the best method for cleaning up your grimy tile, consider a professional tile and grout cleaning service. At Fresh Focus, our trained and IICRC-certified technicians use a scientific process to determine which cleaning solution is most effective for your tile or other hard surface, and grout. We then use specialized tools to get a deep clean without the mess. Our method is suitable for various tile and flooring surfaces, including ceramic, porcelain, sealed concrete, marble, granite, and stone.
Routine, Daily Cleaning
When it comes to maintaining your newly cleaned floors, there are a number of choices that can be beneficial.
- Peroxide Cleaners – Products fortified with hydrogen peroxide are excellent for the daily cleaning and maintenance of grouted floors. Benefits include brighter, cleaner grout and removal of smelly, odor causing bacteria.
- Disinfectant Cleaners – It is common to use these cleaners, especially in restrooms. They will kill harmful pathogens and odor causing bacteria.
- Bio-Enzyme Cleaners – These cleaners are fortified with beneficial enzymes and bacteria that is often highly effective at removing soil. They are also beneficial for removing organic residues and neutralizing odors.
Special Concerns with Grouted Floors
- Odors that won’t go away – Some odors just simply don’t go away with normal, daily cleaning processes. A classic example is urine odors that will hang out day in and day out. Peroxide cleaners are a commonly preferred method for taking care of these odors, but isn’t always effective.
- Mildew and mold – Visible mold and mildew odors are often found near places where water collects which makes grouted tile walls and floors near showers, sinks, and toilets vulnerable. The most common chemical used to eliminate these issues is bleach, but these can be hazardous, especially if mixed with other chemicals.
Contact Fresh Focus Today
Our effective tile and grout cleaning process uses a specialized hard-surface extractor to deep clean and remove stubborn dirt from hard surfaces in any area—no rinsing or drainage required and is suitable for a variety of hard surfaces. Contact us today for a free estimate!
