Cleaning bathroom grout is a tedious task that many fail to do on a regular basis. Unfortunately, by not cleaning your bathroom grout, you are inviting mould and other bacteria to thrive. Hazardous moulds can survive on virtually any moist surface, making your bathtub, tile flooring, sink, and toilet the perfect breeding ground for mould and other bacteria. Not only is this a health hazard for you and your family, but it can also cause significant — and expensive — damage as it spreads through the walls, floor, and pipes of your home. Here are five tips for cleaning bathroom grout and preventing the spread of mould and bacteria:
1) Use the right tools
The first step to effectively cleaning your bathroom grout is to pick the best tools for the job. Opt for a brush with plastic or nylon bristles, rather than steel or other metal, as these materials will not scratch or scrape your tiles. Be sure to have plenty of rags on hand for dealing with chemicals and other cleaning agents. However, avoid using bleach on coloured tiles, as this can cause the colour to fade. For those with sensitive skin, we recommend wearing thick, plastic cleaning gloves to avoid direct contact with chemicals. Consider wearing elbow-length gloves for optimal coverage and protection.
2) Prepare the tile for cleaning
A crucial step in the cleaning process is to properly prepare the grout for cleaning. By doing this, not only will you save yourself time and energy during the cleaning process, but you will ensure the cleaning is as effective against mould and bacteria as possible. First, sweep or vacuum the walls and floor tiles to remove any dirt and debris from the surface. After this, wipe down your wall and floor tiles with a damp rag and bucket of warm water, further removing the remaining dirt and debris as well as the first layer of bacteria and mould.
3) Experiment with DIY cleaning
There is a huge variety of cleaning products on the market that can effectively clean bathroom grout. However, many of these products contain harsh chemicals and are quite expensive. Before opting for an expensive commercial product, experiment with DIY cleaning solutions made from simple products you can find around the house. Here are a few effective cleaning solutions that are both inexpensive and easy to find:
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Hydrogen peroxide
Create a paste by combining baking soda with water and stirring the paste thoroughly. Once it is prepared, spread it over your bathroom or kitchen grout and leave it for approximately 10 to 15 minutes. Once it has dried, scrub with a nylon brush or old toothbrush and then rinse away the remaining paste with a damp rag. The baking soda will neutralize and kill most bacteria while also helping to remove stains and other debris.
Combine two-parts white vinegar with one part water and a teaspoon of dish soap. Like the baking soda, the white vinegar kills mould and bacteria and makes it easy to wipe away dirt and debris stuck on your tiles. Spray the substance on your grout and let it sit for approximately 10 to 15 minutes. Wipe it clean with a damp rag or sponge and a combination of baking soda and warm water to neutralize the vinegar. Finally, rinse your tiles with clean water.
For cleaning cases that require a stronger cleaning substance, try hydrogen peroxide before exploring commercial cleaners. Although it is a strong chemical, it is safe for human skin, making it ideal for scrubbing the grout in kitchens and bathrooms. Fill a spray bottle with an equal combination of hydrogen peroxide and warm water. Add a few drops of dish soap and spray the cleaner on to the grout. Let it sit for approximately 10 to 15 minutes and wipe it clean. This will prevent the buildup of mildew and mould.
4) Clean regularly
Scrubbing your bathroom tiles can be a time-consuming task; and a tough job that can make you break a sweat. To make cleaning your tile grout faster and easier, practice regular cleaning to ensure that mould and mildew does not build up and become a serious problem. Wipe your walls and floors dry after a shower. This will prevent mould, mildew, and bacteria from surviving, as they thrive in moist environments. A quick clean on a weekly basis can be enough to prevent serious mould problems from developing at all. Consider using a grout sealer on an annual basis to keep it protected from moisture and bacteria.
5) Keep your bathroom ventilated
Another simple solution that can prevent the buildup of mildew and mould is keeping your bathroom well ventilated. A common cause of mould in bathrooms is that the moisture from hot showers cannot escape, helping mildew and bacteria to thrive. If you have a fan or window, use it to increase airflow after a hot shower in order to air out the room and dry up any moisture that collects in the grout. If you do not have adequate airflow, opt for cool showers and keep the door open to prevent moisture from collecting.
For more tips on keeping your bathroom and home clean, call Maid4Condos at 647-822-0601 or contact us here.
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