Cleaning tile and grout regularly, and occasionally sealing it, can help prevent the buildup of dirt, grime, and mold or mildew stains. Before you get started, it’s important to choose the right cleaner for your surface. Here’s a look at how to clean grout and tile and keep it looking like new.
How to Clean Tile
When sweeping, mopping or wiping isn’t enough, it’s time to more thoroughly clean tile surfaces. The best way to clean tile depends on what kind of tile you have and the type of buildup on it. Like many surfaces, tile and natural stone can be damaged by using the wrong type of cleaner. That’s why it’s important to choose the best tile cleaner for your surface.
One factor to consider is a cleaner’s pH level. Acidic cleaners, which have a low pH level, can etch or damage some types of polished stone, porcelain and ceramic tile and grout. Meanwhile, high-pH solutions, such as bleach-based cleaners or many all-purpose degreasers, can dull or damage some surfaces.
To help prevent damage, it’s a good idea to first try a pH-neutral cleaner that contains ingredients safe for different types of tile and stone. This is especially important if you are unsure of what type of tile you have.
Many formulas, including Miracle Sealants Tile & Stone Cleaner, are strong enough to remove common messes and stains while still being safe for regular use on all tile, stone and grout surfaces. Allowing the cleaner to sit wet on the surface (the label may refer to this as “dwell time”) for a couple of minutes helps the cleaner’s chemistry go to work. For extra scrubbing power, use a non-scratch scouring pad or stiff bristled nylon brush.
If you find that you need a stronger cleaner, an abrasive scrubbing cream such as Miracle Sealants Porcelain & Ceramic Tile Cleaner can be used to remove hardwater and mineral buildup, soap scum, dirt and grime. While this cleaner is non-acidic and safe for most surfaces, it is not recommended for direct use on polished marble or soft stones. If in doubt about a cleaner, it’s a good idea to apply it to a test area first.
A common issue with new tile installations is grout haze or grout film. This forms when grout residue is not completely rinsed off during application and dries on the tile surface. Grout haze can be removed with a solution like Miracle Heavy Duty Cleaner (Acid Substitute). It can also be used to clean heavy grease, grime and dirt buildup from a variety of tile and stone surfaces.
When using any cleaning solution, be sure to follow all directions on the product label and pay attention to details like recommended surfaces, dwell time and safety precautions.
How to Clean Grout
The rough and porous surface of tile grout can develop grime and stains over time. If grout is not properly sealed, it can lead to mildew or mold growth in wet or damp areas. Repeated use of bleach, acids or harsh chemicals can erode the grout and cause damage such as pitting, cracking and flaking. The good news is that a few simple steps can help keep your grout clean.
Leaving bathroom fans on and doors open after showering can go a long way to helping grout dry. Regular use of a pH-neutral cleaner with a stiff, nylon grout brush can help prevent the buildup of dirt, soap scum and grime, which can also lead to mold and mildew growth. A long-handled grout brush can make scrubbing easier and allow you clean floor grout without getting on your knees.
How To Keep Tile and Grout Clean
Routine cleaning can help keep your tile and grout looking new. It’s also important to wipe up any spills as soon as possible to prevent staining.
Applying a sealer over clean grout can help prevent stains and make cleaning easier. If you are wondering if your grout should be sealed, sprinkle some water on the grout and wait a minute or two. If the water absorbs into the grout and darkens the surface, then stains and bacteria will also absorb into the surface. Sealing your grout is the best way to prevent that.
Applying a tile and grout sealer is a simple process. First, make sure your tile and grout are clean and dry. Then you’re ready to apply a product like Miracle Sealants 511 Impregnator Sealer. This sealer provides long-lasting, invisible protection against stains and water. It can be used on nearly all types of tile, stone and grout, including porcelain, marble, travertine, granite and limestone.
After you seal your tile and grout, consider using a cleaner that also maintains the sealed surface. Miracle Sealants 511 Kleen & Reseal is an everyday cleaner that reinforces the tile’s sealer.
Cleaning and sealing tile and grout helps keep it looking new. By protecting your tile and grout and taking some simple steps to keep it clean, you can enjoy its appearance for years to come.