Tiles are not just your flooring or wall décor. They make up a big part of your kitchen and bathroom, and making sure that the grout is really clean is crucial if you want to keep your tiles looking impressive. Marks are not that obvious on black grout but if what you have is white or gray grouting, then you should know that they stain more easily, making your room look dirtier than it really is. Of course, the tiles would require a little of your attention every now and then as well, so it is best to have a hardworking tile cleaner in your cupboard.
However, it is not just about the type or brand of cleaner you use but more so about your cleaning methods to make sure you get the stains out. You do not have to spend hours on end scrubbing really hard. There are some easy steps that could deal with dirt quickly so you’ll have more time to spend on other activities. Here is our step by step guide for you:
- You can either use a broom or a mop to wipe the floor tiles or a dry cloth if you are cleaning wall tiles. Do this before you start with the grout cleaning process to get rid of accumulated dust.
- Apply cleaning solution to the grout and make sure all the crevices are covered. You may need to reapply the solution but be careful not to saturate the floor.
- Leave the solution on for about half an hour. This will be just enough time to loosen stains and lift them off easier, too.
- Scrub the grout clean with a brush with hard bristles. You could find brushes that are created specifically for this purpose at some DIY stores. You do not have to buy one though as any old toothbrush would work just as well. Just be careful to store it with other cleaning tools!
- When you have removed all the dirt and stains, you can rinse your tile floor or wall with clean water. Dry the surface with a clean cloth.
If there are any stubborn stains then you might need to repeat this process regularly for optimal outcome. If you are not into using store-bought chemical cleaners, you can opt for DIY cleaners using bleach or perhaps paste made of baking soda and a little water. For marble tiles, it is advisable to use a very mild dishwashing soap as acidic products can be damaging.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What should Toronto homeowners know about grout cleaning?
When considering grout cleaning, evaluate durability, maintenance requirements, and cost per square foot for your specific needs. Tony’s Flooring Centre at 268 Royal York Rd offers expert advice and free estimates to help you make the right choice for your Toronto home.
What type of tile is best for bathrooms?
Porcelain tile is the top choice for bathrooms due to its low water absorption rate and excellent durability. Large-format tiles reduce grout lines and maintenance. For shower floors, smaller mosaic tiles provide better slip resistance.
How long does tile flooring last?
Quality ceramic and porcelain tile can last 50-100+ years with proper installation and maintenance. Cracked tiles can be replaced individually. Grout should be sealed annually and professionally cleaned every 2-3 years.
Need Help Choosing the Right Flooring?
With over 60 years of experience, Tony’s Flooring Centre makes choosing the right floor easy. From hardwood and carpet to eco-friendly cork and marmoleum, we carry it all. Visit us at 268 Royal York Rd, call (416) 255-9631, or contact us online.