Steam Cleaning: Invest in a steam cleaner specifically designed for grout cleaning. The high-temperature steam effectively kills mold and mildew without the need for harsh chemicals. Simply direct the steam onto the affected grout lines and watch as the mildew loosens and dissolves.
Yes, the pressurized steam in steam cleaners has more power than hand washing and can do a better job of cleaning grout.
Bleach is the most effective method for removing mold from shower grout. Method One: Make a solution of one-part bleach and four-parts water, and put it in a spray bottle. Spray the affected area and scrub with a brush after 30 minutes. Rinse with water and repeat if necessary.
Prolonged Drying Times
A soaking wet carpet takes an extremely long time to dry. Professionally steam cleaned carpets can take between 12 to 24 hours of drying time. Renting a steam cleaner with only moderate-strength suction power can leave your carpet (and floorboards) wet for up to two days.
Some professionals swear by a simple mixture of baking soda and peroxide to clean grout. Hydrogen peroxide is an acid, and baking soda is a base compound. Mixing the two together creates a reaction that can penetrate the grout lines and free dirt and debris.
For floors, steam mops are highly effective for cleaning grout. Just like the handheld steam cleaner we tested, a steam mop can clean and sanitize your tile and grout without resorting to harsh chemicals.
Chemical cleaners, such as, Tilex, Soft Scrub, Scrubbing Bubbles, or ammonia products will nearly always result in your tile surfaces' grout becoming very discolored.
Certain softer surfaces, such as synthetic fabrics, velvet or other delicate surfaces are also not recommended for steam cleaning. Other surfaces such as laminate floor and some plastics could potentially be damaged by the high temperature of steam.
And because steam actually penetrates the pores of the surface you are cleaning, it cleans deep to kill and remove mold, instead of just bleaching it invisible.
So, where does the dirt go when you steam clean? Actually, it doesn't go anywhere. Instead, the heat and vapour of steam cleaning ensure that all the unwanted substances or stains are fully broken down and easy to get rid of.
Oxygen Bleach, Chlorine Bleach, or Hydrogen Peroxide: Stubborn mildew stains call for more potent solutions. Spray the affected grout with oxygen bleach, chlorine bleach, or hydrogen peroxide, ensuring the solution saturates the stains. Let it dwell for several minutes, then scrub the area.
Grout can absorb water, creating a breeding ground for mold when paired with excess moisture. Virtually every shower forms soap scum, an organic matter that mold thrives on.
Solution: Baking Soda
Best For: Baking soda is non-toxic and safe for kids and pets. It kills black mold and absorbs moisture that attracts mold. Combine ½ cup of baking soda with just enough water to make a paste. Apply the paste to the affected area and let it dry.
“If you are going to use steam to clean your grout, first start with a test spot in an inconspicuous area to ensure no damage is occurring,” she says. Once you've confirmed it's safe to keep cleaning, she recommends using a low-pressure steam setting to gently loosen the dirt without damaging the grout.
Apply the borax solution with a spray bottle or burst to the mold-affected grout, ensuring that you cover the affected areas thoroughly. Let it dwell on the grout for a few hours to overnight. Then scrub the grout to physically remove the mold. Lastly, rinse and dry the grout.
Once your grout is back to its clean, beautiful self, make sure to reseal it right away. All that scrubbing and cleaning will have worn away any remaining seal, and you don't want your hard work to go to waste.
Biocides are substances that can destroy living organisms. The use of a chemical or biocide that kills organisms such as mold (chlorine bleach, for example) is not recommended as a routine practice during mold cleanup.
If mold is growing in the bottom of the food steamer, clean it with white vinegar. Also be sure to empty out and dry the food steamer after each use. This should prevent mold.
Steam cleaning is a method that can be used periodically but should not be used regularly, as it can wear on the carpets unnecessarily. Finally, steam cleaners can often leave moisture in the carpet, which can take upwards of 24 hours to dry.
High-pressure steam can penetrate microscopic pores on various surfaces to eliminate visible grime and microbes, mold, mildew, and other allergens.
Mix your purchased descaler or mix 1 1/2 oz. of baking soda with one quart of clean water. Fill the empty tank with this mix. Seal the unit and turn the steam cleaner on so that it begins heating.
The most effective and simple way to clean your grout is using distilled white vinegar mixed with water. If the grout is heavily stained and requires lightening, you may decide to first apply bicarbonate of soda paste before you begin cleaning.
Here's a few DIY grout cleaners you can try: Make a spreadable paste with 3/4 cup baking soda with 1/4 cup hydrogen peroxide and 1 tablespoon of mild dish soap. Add more baking soda or peroxide if the mixture is too runny or thick.
Attach a small brush attachment to the hose of your steam cleaner. Use soft bristles, as stiffer bristles may damage certain types of tile and stone. Avoid using brass bristled brushes for this reason. For walls and backsplashes, start at the top and work your way down, steaming and scrubbing the grout.