One of the household tasks often overlooked is taking the time to clean grout. When the mold, mildew and dirt has attached itself to the grout it’s extremely difficult to clean.

The areas in your home that it seems to be the worst is generally the bathrooms and kitchens. Grout stains are caused by mold and mildew in bathrooms and normally caused from grime such as food and grease in kitchens.

Using Green cleaning choices first

The best way to start cleaning grout is using the simplest methods first and then if that doesn’t work moving on to stronger chemical methods.

• First try using non toxic cleaning products, the things you normally find around your house. If these do not work then you might have to purchase something else.
• Some of the most economical cleaners you can find at home are baking soda and vinegars. Simple mix a cup of water and a cup of vinegar together or even make a paste of baking soda and water.

• Spray or rub this cleaner on the area that requires cleaning and use a stiff brush. Brush the area using small circular motions to remove the gunk.
• Rinse well and then dry to make sure you’ve gotten all the remaining moisture.

Make sure stronger chemicals won’t erode away your grout

Liquid and powder cleaners that are mild commercial types may also be used as well. These can be purchased from your local cleaning supply stores or from hardware stores. It’s good to make sure before purchasing cleaners, that they will not erode away your grout.

For heavier stains you may want to use chlorine bleach, oxygen bleach, or hydrogen peroxide because these cleaners are much stronger. Remember to dilute these as well with water before using and NEVER mix them together. Please remember that these products contain higher chemical compounds and could be dangerous so use with caution. Remember to always test an inconspicuous area first!!

Making it a habit

The easiest way in which to keep it clean is simply to make it a regular habit. By scheduling time a few times a month (mark your calendar if necessary) for cleaning so that no build up of mildew, mold or grease occurs. If you “stay on top of it” you’ll find it a lot easier to clean grout.

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