Cleaning floor tile grout without scrubbing 

Maintaining the floors in your home includes more than addressing messes on the flooring itself. For homeowners with tile floors, it is important to make sure the grout surrounding the tile is clean as well. 

Grout is an important aspect of installing floor tile as it keeps each tile in place. Plus, it can create a chic look that completes the tile floor’s design. While it is necessary to regularly clean your floor tile to make sure it remains tidy and beautiful, it is equally as important to make sure the grout is well-maintained too. 

Because tile is waterproof, any water that comes in contact with the tiles could drip from the tile’s surface onto the grout surrounding it. This is what can cause grout to see some build-up. Cleaning on a regular basis will keep grout from weakening and will prevent mold and mildew from growing.  

Luckily, the process to clean floor grout no longer requires getting on your hands and knees to scrub. With modern solutions, grout cleaning can be a quick and easy process that will keep your floor looking like new! 

Why Avoid Scrubbing? 

Grout is a very strong material that is meant to firmly hold tiles in place. Because of its composition, which could include elements like cement or resin, grout can seem rather delicate to the touch. It may dampen or become weaker if it is scrubbed harshly. And if too much pressure is applied while scrubbing grout, it may cause more harm than good. 

Regularly sweeping or mopping tile floors with a microfiber cloth or pad will keep your grout clean from dirt and grime. To make sure the floor is extra clean from everyday debris, it may be worth running a cloth or towel over the floor with warm water and a simple cleanser such as dish soap. 

Cleaning grout is meant to restore the grout’s crisp look and make sure that no damage is keeping the grout product from doing its job. Remember that cleaning grout with too much pressure or harshness will also impact how the grout performs in the home. If grout becomes too damaged, it may need to be removed and re-grouted by a professional, which can be expensive and time-consuming. Plus, it may impact how the surrounding tile looks and performs too.   

Harsh scrubbing could also damage the design properties of the grout. Today’s grout offerings are available in a variety of colors and styles – some even including reflective or glitter effects. If the grout sees too much wear from heavy scrubbing and pressure, its color properties will start to fade over time. For example, grout installed in tile pools are often designed to create a visually stunning effect when it is reflected off the water and coordinated with glistening tile. But if this grout is cleaned too vigorously, the design will dull and may not serve as the stylish accessory to tile that it was originally intended to be. 

Easy Hacks for Grout Cleaning    

Grout can stand up against water, but is not meant to handle harsh chemicals. So if you are using a grout cleaning product, select one that is not acidic (like white vinegar, for example). The best way to clean grout with a cleaning product is to select one that is ph neutral. If ph neutral solutions are not available, alkaline cleaners can be used on stains that require more than simply water to remove. Consider using hydrogen peroxide, which is an alkaline cleaner that is a good alternative to bleach. Make sure to utilize gloves when handling these cleaners.  

One way to prevail against dirty grout without scrubbing is to create your own cleaning mixture. Try combining a ½ cup of baking soda with a ¼ cup of hydrogen peroxide and 1 teaspoon of liquid dish soap. 

Test on Small Areas 

Before using a cleaning mixture, remember to test it on a small area first. Apply the mixture and let it sit for roughly 5-10 minutes. Use a cloth that has been slightly dampened with water to gently wipe away the cleaner in the direction of the grout lines. No need to scrub!  

For added protection, homeowners can apply a professional-grade grout sealer to their grout as well for added cleansing and protection against damage. Grout sealer assures that no dirt or harmful moisture can get into thin spaces within the grout or between the grout and the tile. While not always necessary, it adds an extra layer of protection to the surface. Wait 24 hours after you have removed your grout cleaning mixture, then apply the grout sealer.  

Alternatives to Scrubbing 

If you happen to know what brand of grout was used for your floor tile installation, check the company’s website. Several grout makers have created their own grout cleaners which help keep the grout strong and rejuvenated – the easiest way to clean grout without scrubbing. 

Often, the use of grout cleaner is as simple as 1, 2, 3: spray on the dirtied area, let it sit for a few minutes, and then use a bristle brush to wipe away the cleaner in the direction of the grout lines. Always read the directions provided with the grout cleaner, and rinse the desired area with water afterwards to assure all of the cleaner is removed.  

Those that want a deeper cleaning of their grout could consider a professional to clean, seal and steam the grout throughout their homes. Research local cleaners in your area to see if they offer services for grout cleaning. 

Conclusion 

It’s very doable to learn how to clean grout without the need for scrubbing. Regularly keep your house well maintained, and include taking good care of grout in your typical cleaning practices. Simple upkeep can keep the grout’s integrity in tact. Don’t apply too much pressure when cleaning the grout as it could worsen the grout’s strength and visual look. Consider creating your own cleaning solution, or a liquid cleaner from a grout company. Remember to always test the cleaner on a small area first. Then wipe gently in the direction of the grout lines.