How To Clean Grout
HOW TO CLEAN GROUT - A lot depends on how grimy the grout is. For normal situations, or for a weekly preventive cleaning, the alternatives include: * Hydrogen peroxide - this is probably the oldest method, and still the cheapest. 1/2 cup, mixed with 1 cup of water; apply with a spray bottle; don't rinse. * Vinegar (white) - same proportions, same application, but a bit more fragrant.
If you don't get good results by just spraying it on, try applying with a toothbrush. This will not scratch the tile, and you can confine the hard work to just the stained spots. There will be times, when you're trying to figure out how to clean grout, when you'll need something more heavy duty. If the problem is really bad, you can try one of the environmentally-unfriendly commercial cleaners. I know of 3 - Zep Mildew Stain Remover, X-14, and Limeaway. Be careful, wear gloves, and never use these in combination, as poisonous gasses can result. The wall or floor looks good and you're thinking you now know how to clean grout. But hold on, the mold or mildew comes back in a week. "What did I do wrong?" you ask. Probably nothing. Chances are you have more than a surface mold problem. The mold is probably originating from somewhere behind the tile. This is a serious problem which will create a significant mess and expense. Someone has to remove some of the tile to see how bad thing really are. As I see it, you have 2 choices; call a mold removal expert, or sell the house. I'm kidding (sort of). You can't just cover it up, it keeps growing. You have to get rid of it. There are other types of stains which need different methods of how to clean grout. These usually are found in homes that have kids.
Ink, crayons, hair dye, and blood all require quick and decisive action. Apply turpentine, lighter fluid, paint thinner, or mineral spirits. DO NOT inspect your work by the light of a match. You could lose your hair. If you're into manual labor, you could chip or grind the grout out, and replace it. Another option is to cover up the stains with a grout stain to make it darker. In my opinion, dark grout looks very strange, but I have seen it. Cleaning things really isn't my area of expertise. But if you want to know more about this, I recommend going to www.howtocleanstuff.net. Here's a good place to buy cleaning products for your home at excellent prices.
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I should also mention that you will minimize the mold and mildew by using exhaust fans whenever the shower or bath water is running. If there’s something you want to discuss about how to clean grout, let me know by clicking here. If you're planning a large renovation, get your hands on HOW TO CONTROL YOUR REMODELING PROJECT. You can learn more about it by clicking here.
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