Cleaning grout in the bathroom is not one of the pleasant tasks, and each of us is fully aware of that. These are areas that are easily accessible but difficult and time-consuming to clean thoroughly: especially the grout in the bathroom, where moisture is practically always present. Moreover, the structure of the grout doesn't make the work any easier: it is a heavily porous material that is additionally located in the recesses between tiles. All of this makes grout a place that has nearly ideal conditions for the growth of bacteria and fungi.
Before You Start Cleaning the Grout
Let's start with the fact that first and foremost - as with any washed surface - we must remember about consistency. Grout in the bathroom is exposed to constant moisture and heat - both those on the walls and on the floor. Special attention must be paid to the grout between the tiles by the bathtub and shower: these areas have the most contact with water and soap, which is why unsightly dark residue, mold, and bacteria most often appear there.
Regularly cleaning these areas with a neutral pH detergent will allow us to avoid situations where we will have to reach for stronger chemicals. Before cleaning bathroom grout, it is also important to choose the right cleaning agent so as not to accidentally damage the surface being cleaned. Importantly, in the fight for clean grout, we can also use well-known ecological methods or specialized equipment. Cotton cloths, a toothbrush, and - this is mandatory! - protective gloves will definitely come in handy here. Cleaning grout in the bathroom often involves contact with harsh chemical substances that can damage the delicate skin of the hands.
What to Use to Clean Grout in the Bathroom?
We have two strategies for cleaning grout:
- chemical cleaners for the bathroom,
- ecological solutions.
Each of these strategies has its advantages and each differs from the others, and which one works best in our bathroom essentially depends on our ecological (or not) preferences and the condition of our grout. Let's take a closer look at what we can use, and for choices we have:
- vinegar,
- baking soda,
- baking powder,
- lemon juice,
- toothpaste,
- steam cleaner,
- chlorine-based products,
- other chemical agents intended for the bathroom.
Go for Chlorine, or Even Toilet Cleaner!
For bathroom grout, which is exposed to high moisture, chlorine-based products work excellently - they handle this type of dirt very well. If we do not want to reach for ready-made, expensive detergents, let's opt for... toilet cleaner. We mix it in a 1:1 ratio and apply it with a small brush to the grout (being careful not to splash the rest of the wall or floor surface) and quickly scrub the dirty grout. When using chlorine-based products, remember to ensure proper ventilation of the room by opening a door or window. Chlorine is a corrosive substance, and its fumes can be harmful to us.
Prefer Eco-Friendly? Choose Baking Powder for Cleaning Grout.
What if we want to choose milder solutions? Baking powder works excellently here! We spread the powder on the wet grout and wait about half an hour for it to dissolve and handle the dirt. Then we wipe it off with a cloth and only then do we wash the entire tile surface.
When Home Remedies Are the Best, or Water, Vinegar, and Baking Soda
Another home remedy for fighting dirty grout is a paste made of baking soda, vinegar, and water. This combination works excellently in removing scale, rust stains, and various types of dirt. It is the best home method for combating bacteria and mold. Similar to the baking powder case: we apply the paste with a brush to the grout and leave it for 30 - 40 minutes. Afterwards, we rinse the mixture with clean water.
Lemon Juice - The Silent Hero?
Lemon juice can effectively deal with dirty grout. Although it may not be as effective as baking powder or the vinegar and baking soda mixture, it can be sufficient in many situations. In this case, it is enough to spray the grout with lemon juice, wait a few, maybe a dozen minutes, and wipe the grout with a cloth. The procedure can be repeated until the desired effect is achieved, but remember - very dirty grout cannot be cleaned with lemon.
Toothpaste for Cleaning Grout?
Although it may be hard to believe, toothpaste can clean not just teeth. When using it to scrub dirty grout, we apply it to an old toothbrush and then thoroughly rub it into the joints between the tiles. After a few minutes, we rinse off the toothpaste, wipe the grout with a cloth, and observe the effect. If it is satisfactory, it is time for a break and a coffee - after all, we deserve it!
Effectively and Eco-Friendly, or Using a Steam Cleaner
A steam cleaner is an excellent solution for cleaning grout, although it is a bit more pricey than using toothpaste or vinegar. High-temperature steam effectively cleans grout and also removes mold and bacteria. A good steam cleaner can be purchased for a price starting from about 200 PLN, but remember to choose a device with a pointed nozzle - it allows for a concentrated steam flow.
What to Avoid When Cleaning Grout?
Many people make a significant mistake by choosing hard brushes, wire sponges, and even sharp tools when cleaning grout. It may seem that such solutions will help in quicker removal of mold and dirt - however, not only can they damage the grout itself (which will result in even faster dirt accumulation), but they also harm the surfaces of the tiles.
Scratched or cracked tiles are another breeding ground for bacteria and mold - which is why we should avoid using hard sponges and brushes. The products that we apply to the grout cope with the dirt, so there is no need to use sharp tools. The best options here are kitchen sponges and soft cotton or microfiber cloths, which will help quickly wipe off the detergents or homemade pastes applied to the grout without damaging the tiles.