How Do Professionals Clean Tile and Grout?
When equipped with the right tools and techniques, pros know how to use tried-and-tested tile floor cleaning techniques to bring it back to life. Cleaning tile and grout might seem like a straightforward task, but when faced with years of built-up grime, even the most persistent scrubbing can feel like it barely makes a dent.
Let’s take a closer look at how professionals tackle tile and grout cleaning, why their methods are so effective, and what you can do to maintain a lasting shine in your home.
Step-by-Step: How Professionals Clean Tile and Grout
Inspection and Assessment
Every tile floor cleaning begins with a close inspection of the tile and grout condition. A tile and grout cleaner will look for any stains, mold, mildew, and overall build-up to determine the best course of action. This is especially important for areas with different types of tiles, as not all cleaning agents work for every surface.
Preparation of the Area
Professional tile and grout cleaners will carefully prep the space to protect surrounding surfaces and furniture. Any loose dirt or debris is vacuumed up to prevent further soiling during cleaning, and sensitive areas may be taped or covered.
Application of Professional Cleaning Solution
This is where the magic starts! Experts use specially formulated grout cleaning machines designed to penetrate deep into grout pores without damaging the tile. These solutions break down oils, grease, and embedded dirt, loosening them up for easy removal. In some cases, the solution may be left to sit for a few minutes, especially for tougher stains.
High-Pressure Steam or Hot Water Extraction
After the solution has had time to work, professionals use high-pressure steam or hot water extraction machines to lift the dirt from grout lines. The steam kills bacteria and mold spores, and the high-pressure water cleans the grout effectively. These machines often have a vacuum component to pull away dirt, water, and cleaning agents, ensuring no residue is left behind.
Powerful Agitation for Deep Cleaning
For especially stubborn grime, professionals may use specialized rotary scrubbers. These machines provide a level of agitation that no home brush can match, dislodging dirt and stains that have become deeply embedded. If they encounter especially resistant areas, they may even use a gentle yet effective grout brush or brush attachment for targeted scrubbing.
Spot Treatment and Stain Removal
Certain stains can be particularly resilient, especially if they’ve been around for a long time. Professionals often rely on specific stain removers tailored for grout discoloration to tackle these areas.
Sealing the Grout for Lasting Results
Once the tile and grout are thoroughly cleaned, many professionals will recommend applying a high-quality grout sealer. Sealing provides a protective barrier that prevents dirt, spills, and moisture from penetrating the grout, making it easier to clean and keeping it looking fresh for longer. This step is crucial, especially in areas with high moisture or heavy foot traffic.
Final Polish and Quality Check
To finish, the tiles are given a final rinse or polish, and the area is inspected to ensure a pristine, streak-free finish. Professionals, such as the ones at Excel Pro Carpet Cleaning take great care to leave the space sparkling clean and ready to use.
Why Do Tile and Grout Need Special Attention?
Tiles are typically durable and smooth, so dirt, grease, and spills can easily be wiped away. Grout, on the other hand, is porous, and even sealed grout can trap grime over time, especially in damp or high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Regular mopping and scrubbing might help, but when it comes to deeper layers of dirt and stains, professional cleaners have specialized tools and methods to achieve a true clean. Learn more about how to maintain squeaky clean grout and tiles with Excel Pro Carpet Cleaning!
How to Maintain Clean Tile and Grout at Home
After a professional tile and grout cleaning, you’ll want to keep that shine for as long as possible. Here are some easy tips to help maintain your tiles between professional visits:
- Regularly Sweep and Mop: Dirt left on floors can get ground into grout, so be sure to sweep frequently and mop with a gentle cleaner.
- Use the Right Cleaning Solutions: Avoid harsh cleaners like bleach, which can erode grout over time. Opt for pH-neutral cleaners or gentle, diluted soap solutions.
- Dry the Area After Cleaning: Water can seep into grout and cause mildew. After cleaning, always dry the area thoroughly.
Get in touch with Excel Pro Carpet Cleaning to learn more about the best grout and tile cleaning techniques at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I have my tile and grout professionally cleaned?
Most professionals recommend deep cleaning and sealing grout every 12 to 18 months. However, if you have heavy foot traffic, pets, or kids, a yearly cleaning might be best to keep grime and bacteria at bay.
Can I clean the tile and grout with bleach?
While bleach can lighten grout stains, it’s not recommended for frequent use as it can erode grout and cause discoloration over time. Professional-grade cleaners are a safer and more effective choice, especially for stubborn stains.
What should I do if my grout is cracking or chipping?
If the grout is cracking or crumbling, it may need to be re-grouted rather than cleaned. In this case, professionals can remove the old grout, reapply a fresh layer, and seal it for protection.
Final Thoughts
Keeping tile and grout clean can feel like an endless battle, but with the right approach and a little help from the pros, you can make it a whole lot easier. Professional cleaners bring expertise, powerful tools, and effective methods to remove deep-seated grime and stains, making your tile and grout look fresh again.
If your grout is looking a little worse for the wear or your tiles have lost their shine, don’t hesitate to call in the experts. A professional clean by Excel Pro Carpet Cleaning could be just what you need to revive your floors, showers, or countertops and keep them looking beautiful for years to come!