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Sarita here, from Saturday Morning Cleaning Company.
There are a few household tasks that most people absolutely hate, and neglecting them, long-term, can have a negative effect on property value, and overall cleanliness of the home. One of those things is Tile Grout Lines. Tile Grout Lines are the spaces or joints filled with a cement-based material between tiles in an installation. They also can mean the difference between a room looking “tidied up” or simply immaculate. Most people shy away from cleaning these lines because it can be extremely tedious. However, Saturday Morning Cleaning Company specializes in this type of cleaning. During this blog we will share a few tips on how to make cleaning grout lines a little easier for you.
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
You likely have quite a few of these items in your cleaning cabinet. Some are common items stored in the kitchen. All of them get the job done. Here are supplies we recommend:
• “Hot as you can Stand It” Water: The basis for any great cleaning job; hot water. Cold or lukewarm water is reserved for the sprinkler. • Dish Soap: A mild yet effective degreaser. Dawn is one of our favorites. • Baking Soda: This versatile powder acts as a gentle abrasive and deodorizer. • White Vinegar: A natural disinfectant that can work wonders on grime. **PLEASE NOTE** Never mix vinegar and bleach, as it creates harmful fumes! • An Old Toothbrush or a Stiff-Bristled Brush: Perfect for scrubbing those narrow grout lines. • Sponges or Cleaning Cloths: For wiping and rinsing. • Spray Bottle (Optional): Handy for applying liquid solutions. • Gloves (Recommended): To keep your hands safe and protected.
Step 2: Decide which cleaning supplies work best for the job you’re performing.
Soap and Water (typically used for lightly soiled areas)
• Mix a small amount of dish soap with warm water. • Dip your brush into the soapy water and gently scrub the grout lines. • Wipe away the soapy residue with a damp sponge or cloth. • Rinse with clean water and pat dry.
You’d be surprised how often this simple step can make a noticeable difference.
Baking Soda Power (for more stubborn dirt and grime)
• Mix baking soda with a little water to form a thick paste. • Apply the paste directly to the grout lines. • Let it sit for about 15-20 minutes. Then, scrub with your brush and rinse thoroughly with water or sprinkle dry baking soda directly onto the grout lines. • Lightly dampen your brush and scrub. Rinse well with water.
Baking soda’s mild abrasiveness helps to lift dirt without damaging your tiles.
Vinegar (always use with caution because vinegar is acidic but can be a powerful tool against mildew and tougher stains)
Method 1 (Spray): Pour undiluted white vinegar into a spray bottle. Spray directly onto the grout lines. Let it sit for a few minutes. You might see some fizzing – that’s the vinegar working its magic! Scrub with your brush and rinse thoroughly with water.
Method 2 (Paste Enhancement): For particularly stubborn areas, you can follow the baking soda paste method and then lightly spray the vinegar onto the baking soda paste. This creates a bubbly reaction that can help loosen grime. Let it sit for a few minutes, scrub, and rinse well.
Remember, always ensure good ventilation when using vinegar, and avoid using it on natural stone tiles as it can etch the surface.
The Final Touches
Once you’ve scrubbed and rinsed, take a moment to admire your handiwork! For a truly sparkling finish:
Wipe down the tiles and grout lines with a clean, dry cloth.
Ensure the area is well-ventilated to allow the grout to dry completely.
And there you have it! With a little attention and these simple methods, you can keep your tile grout fresh and clean. Remember, consistency is key. A quick scrub every now and then can save you from tackling a major cleaning project down the line.
As always, happy cleaning and if need a helping hand the team at Saturday Morning Cleaning Company is just a call away!
