No one loves an everyday cleaning chore that takes an exorbitant amount of time and effort. This is another reason that The Grout Medic always recommends that you seal grout after cleaning. The protective layer created by the deep-penetrating grout sealer repels dirt and contaminants.
First off deep clean the grout. Then have it be 100% dry, takes a day or two to be sure. Then use either miracle 511 or use Aqua Mix Sealer's Choice Gold. Don't cheap out, it won't work. Apply with a brush, wait until it soaks in then apply another coat. Let it cure. Reapply annually on a used shower floor.
Homemade Grout Haze Remover
Add three to four parts of distilled white vinegar to one part of cool water in a spray bottle. Mix but do not shake. When using vinegar to remove grout haze, it's usually necessary to use a non-scratching scrubbing pad to boost the removal process.
It might seem like an unnecessary step right after you've cleaned it, and it looks so pretty and brand new, but trust me - grout won't stay pretty for long unless you seal it. Grout sealant is key to maintaining a clean and attractive tile surface. It increases stain resistance, durability, and moisture-resistance.
If you are wondering how long you should wait between grout sealing on your high-traffic floors or frequently-used showers, the answer is at least once per year. However, The Grout Medic recommends sealing those areas every six months.
While the tile industry does not require sealing, it is always recommended, especially in wet or high-traffic areas. Penetrating sealers are the most commonly used and offer high water, chemical and stain resistance. They provide protection without changing the appearance of the grout joint.
Be sure to let your grout sealer dry thoroughly before testing a small area with a few drops of water. If the water beads up, you're all set! If not, you'll need to apply an additional coat of sealer to your grout. Most grout sealers take 1-3 coats for best results.
The best answer, in a word, is money. It costs more time and material to seal grout and there is little or no perceived benefit (until, of course, the grout gets stained or starts to crack). A superior product would cost more to purchase and install, again for no perceived benefit over the less costly unsealed grout.
The good news is that steam is effective at both lifting grime and disinfecting grout. You'll need a clear space to work. Remove all furniture and sweep or vacuum well if you're cleaning the floor. Remove all shampoo bottles and hygiene tools if you're cleaning the shower.
Steam cleaning is one of the most powerful ways to clean grout without the use of harsh chemicals. Professionals often use steam to loosen the dirt and other particles trapped in the grout without needing to scrub manually.
Once you've activated the micro-scrubbers inside, your Magic Eraser is good to go. Start by swiping it firmly across the desired surface. In just a few swipes, you should start to see grout messes and buildup begin to disappear!
Grout is porous and usually sealed to resist stains. However, acid can degrade these silicone-based sealants, causing them to break down and wash away. Contrary to popular belief, this can happen with just one application of vinegar.
The Drawback of Using Grout Sealer
Moisture can still pass through most sealers, meaning grout isn't entirely waterproof even when sealed. Over time, grout in areas like bathrooms will naturally stain or show signs of aging, regardless of sealing.
Once the grout has cured, dried, you can proceed with the sealing process. Keep in mind that grout sealing is not a one-time affair. It is advisable to reseal your grout annually, or immediately after a known acidic spill.
Oleic acid and potassium hydroxide are two active ingredients in our best overall grout cleaner pick. These ingredients work together to help loosen dirt and grime from surfaces while protecting them. Some grout cleaners come with cleaning tools, such as narrow scrub brushes, as well.
If your grout has been previously sealed, reapplication may not be required. If your grout wasn't sealed, the Pros recommend sealing it after steam cleaning. Make sure to allow the grout to fully dry beforehand.
Make the steam cleaning of grouting part of your weekly cleaning schedule, and you should never have to use any form of cleaning agent again. Shark's steam mops are powerful, mobile and precise, and they're all you need to keep mildew, grime and soap scum from accumulating on your bathroom and kitchen tiles.
Unsightly Grout Stains and Discoloration:
One of the most noticeable effects of neglected grout sealing is the gradual accumulation of stains and discoloration. Grout is porous by nature, which means it readily absorbs liquids, dirt, and debris.
White grout is more difficult to keep clean than darker colors, like gray or black, because even small stains show more prominently.
Using Too Much Sealant
You might be tempted to use more grout sealer to get the job done quickly, but an excess amount can easily spill over onto the tiles. As a result, unnecessary time will have to be spent scrubbing the excess sealant off.
It is generally better to use brushed grout sealer than spray sealer as you can apply more sealer with more control.