Clients often ask for our grout cleaning secrets, and for good reason. Because it’s such a strong and versatile flooring surface, many offices and commercial facilities use tile for restrooms, break rooms, hallways and front entries. With heavy foot traffic, tile lines can quickly become dirty, dingy and downright unsightly. Keep your office looking sharp and well-maintained with our simple tile grout tips.
Why Grout Gets Dirty
Grout is composed of Portland cement, sand, and additives to help it set up and hold tiles in place. Its surface is rough, porous, and the perfect environment to trap dirt and grime. Even if you’ve added a sealer, it wears away quickly with use. No mopping in the world, even once your floors are truly clean, can restore the pristine look of new grout. Dirty grout, left untreated, will eventually begin to chip away, leaving your tile vulnerable to cracking and breaking.
How To Clean Grout on Tile Floors
A natural way to clean grouted areas is to mix a solution of baking soda, ammonia, and white vinegar in warm water. Use a sponge or spray bottle to apply the solution, then allow it to sit for five minutes. Use a toothbrush or nylon cleaning brush to scrub gently on the grout lines. (Never use a wire brush however, as it could dislodge the product.) Finish by wiping with a clean damp cloth. If the area doesn’t come clean, you have a couple of choices. Go over it again until it does come clean, or contact a professional cleaning company that offers grout cleaning services.
How To Keep Grout Looking Good
The secret to keeping grouted areas clean is to give them frequent and regular attention. Keep a spray bottle with your cleaning solution handy, and treat any new stains immediately. Have all your grout cleaned at least once every 6 months and have sealer reapplied annually. Keep grouted tile floors dry to discourage mold growth and be sure to repair any cracks or chips promptly. Finally, if you find yourself unable to keep light colored grout looking sharp, consider painting or staining it a different color that will be easier to maintain.
Few professional cleaning companies and janitorial service providers offer grouted tile cleaning services but Town & Country does. Professional grade chemicals and equipment can clean your grout much more effectively than you can, and will spare your knees and back. Your office cleaning professionals can also suggest specific maintenance products so you can help reduce the need for more frequent grout cleaning.
