5 Things to Avoid Using When Cleaning Grout
Stone tiles are an attractive option for floors, showers, countertops, and more. They come in different colors, shades, patterns, and sizes and have added to the aesthetic appeal of many homes. However, while cleaning stone tiles, some people forget to clean the grout between them. Those who do remember to clean the grout may also make several mistakes that can damage the tile or even the grout itself. To prevent various types of damage, below are some of the things you should avoid using when cleaning grout.
1. Too Much Water
To some people, water is synonymous with cleanliness, and they think using a lot of water when cleaning is the best plan of action. This might be true in some instances, but it does not apply to grout cleaning. This is because grout is very porous, and using a lot of water when cleaning can be detrimental to its structural integrity. The water can also get trapped under the tiles, which could lead to the development of mildew and mold.2. Harsh Chemicals
When installing tiles in their homes, people want them to last for a long time. However, there are some mistakes homeowners make that can shorten the lifespan of tiles and grout, and one of these errors is using harsh chemicals when cleaning. Over time, harsh chemicals damage tiles and drastically reduce the lifespan and durability of grout. Instead, you should use a specially formulated grout cleaner.3. Colored Chemicals
Some homeowners also use colored chemicals when cleaning grout on their floors and countertops. This is a bad idea because it could change the color of your grout. Also, you should never use pure bleach on dark colored grout because it can oxidize the grout over time. However, you can dilute bleach with water and use it on the grout in your showers once a month. Simply apply the 50/50 mixture, scrub, and rinse.4. Coarse Scrubbers
When cleaning grout, some people choose to use coarse scrubbers thinking they will work more efficiently. However, rough scrubbers are not good for cleaning grout because they can damage the grout and the tiles. Instead of using a coarse scrubber, you should opt for a safe-on-stone pad or nylon brush instead.5. Acidic Cleaners
Most people do not check the ingredients of their cleaners, which often leads them to buy cleaners with harmful ingredients. For instance, some cleaners contain a high pH or are acidic, which will only make your grout fragile or more porous. Weak grout will re-soil faster, and you will be back to the cleaning process sooner than expected. After cleaning the grout, you should also use a grout sealer on all the porous surfaces so you will have an easier time cleaning the grout in the future. A grout sealer helps prevent bacteria, germs, and dirt from sticking to the grout. In addition to cleaning the grout in between the stone tiles, it’s also crucial to keep the actual stone clean. Make sure to avoid using common household cleaners on stone. Instead, you should opt for a specially formulated stone cleaner. At Granite Gold®, we offer the Granite Gold Daily Cleaner® as well as various other products that can help you maintain the beauty and durability natural stone in your home. Reach out to us today at 1-800-475-STONE to learn more.
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Posted on March 05 2020