Whether it’s used as flooring, in the kitchen as a splashback or for benchtops, or in the bathroom – has one great downfall: grout. Since grout is porous in nature, unsealed grout absorbs all kinds of stains, from mildew to coffee and everything in between. To say it’s a headache to keep grout clean is an understatement.
What you’ll need:
- Oxygenated bleach
- Warm water
- Coarse scrubbing brush (like an old toothbrush)
- Towel
- Lemon
- Grout sealer
TIP: Cleaning coloured grout should be done with special care. Bleaching agents (like chlorine bleach) can discolour and harm the coloured grout. Fortunately, oxygenated bleach does not contain corrosive chemicals and is safe to use on all grout.
- Clean the surface thoroughly, removing any surface residue or debris. Let the grout dry fully.
- Dissolve 2 tablespoons of oxygenated bleach in 2 cups of warm water. Wet the brush in the mixture and apply it to the grout. Let it soak in, then scrub the grout in a circular motion, which will loosen the stain more effectively than a front-and-back motion. If needed, dip the wet brush into the oxygenated bleach to make a paste. Wipe clean, then let dry.
- Spray the tiles and grout with an eco-friendly cleaning spray and wipe them clean. Let the grout dry fully before making a final decision on whether your hard work paid off – damp grout looks darker than dry grout.
- Apply grout sealer after the grout has fully dried to avoid any future stains. Be sure to reapply it each year.
Tip: To lift extra-dark stains, squeeze lemon juice onto the stain, let it soak in, then scrub, wipe clean and let the grout dry. Use lemon juice sparingly, since it can damage some tile finishes.
Still having trouble getting that grout clean? For those impossible-to-remove stains, you might want to consider:
- A commercial tile and grout cleaner
- A coarser brush (avoid using metal bristles, though, as they can erode the grout)
- Grout stain-proof
If after you’ve tried all three, the stain is still hanging strong, maybe its time to replace the tiles. It’s the best way to get that new look by replacing the tiles and grout. There will always be a point when the bathroom looks the same and nothing can be done regardless of what you do. Thats when its time to call On the Ball Bathrooms to get a quote for that new bathroom renovation.
It’s important to note that all our advice is general in nature and all bathrooms are unique so always speak to your local qualified tradesman for the best advice. At on the ball bathrooms we love feedback so let us know what you think with a comment below or if you are looking for a bathroom renovation quote and live in Perth, Western Australia contact us on 0419964678 or email us at info@ontheballbathrooms.com.au
For More DIY TIPS For Renovating Your Bathroom Visit:
Before and After Albums: Click Here
High-resolution examples of all projects: Click Here
Start Pinning and Putting Your Dream Bathroom Together: Click Here
If you like the article and want to get all the latest updates or see all our before and after’s, then show us some love with a like on Instagram