If you have ceramic tile and
lighter-colored grout in your home, you've probably noticed how dirty and stained that
grout is. If your tile does not have some kind of sealer or protectant on it, activities like mopping and just walking on it (tracking dirt in) will inevitably leave the grout lines dingy and dull.
What can you do? There are commercial grout cleaners and even services that will professionally do this for you. But we've found an easier, less costly way that takes not-so-much time and can be done with impressive results.
1. Buy hydrochloric ccid. Yes, that is a main component in grout cleaners, but instead of buying pricey and low-volume cleaners, buy a gallon of hydrochloric acid (be very careful with this stuff) and dilute to 1:10 or weaker.
2. Get your rubber gloves on. Once your hands are protected, start working into that sand-based grout (yes, I've only tested this on standard sand-based, tinted grout). [I KNOW NOTHING ABOUT GROUT, BUT I WONDER IF SHE SHOULDN'T BRIEFLY MENTION WHAT OTHER KINDS OF GROUT EXIST AND WHEN TO CONSULT A PROFESSIONAL?]
3. Let it sit. Leave the solution on the grout for about 10 minutes before you start to wipe it off. It's a little messy, but the results are grout lines that look brand new.
4. Seal or wax. Once you get it all cleaned up, then seal or even wax that tile floor if you're so inclined to prevent further grout stains.
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Reader comments (Page 1 of 1)
Um...where does an average consumer get their hands on HCL--without ending up on a terrorism watch list? I'd love to do this on my brown--formerly sand--grout, but I have never seen HCL at my neighborhood Wal-mart.
ReplyYou can buy it at spa stores sold as pH down. When I use the stuff for cleaning, I also wear a respirator (use at higher concentration).
ReplyI am going to try this, been debating on either using a colored sealant or getting a steam service to come in. These seems like a cheaper or easier alternative. Thanks