Keeping the grout in our homes clean can be a challenging task, whether it’s in the bathroom or between kitchen tiles. Neglecting grout cleaning can make a room look dirty even if the rest of it is spotless. Brightening up the tile spaces is a simple way to enhance the overall appearance of a room.
Although it may be tempting to use bleach for grout cleaning, cleaning expert Lynsey Crombie advises against it. Lynsey, known as the ‘Queen of Clean’ from her appearances on This Morning and her online blog, warns that bleach only temporarily lightens the grout surface without actually cleaning it. In fact, bleach can damage the grout over time, causing it to deteriorate and turn yellow.
Instead of bleach, Lynsey recommends a paste made from bicarbonate of soda, washing up liquid, and water, along with gentle scrubbing using a toothbrush. For regular grout maintenance, Lynsey suggests using white vinegar spray. She also utilizes white vinegar for various cleaning tasks around the house, such as cleaning windows, descaling the kettle, and preventing mildew.
To maintain healthy bathroom and kitchen spaces, Lynsey advises avoiding bleach when cleaning grout. Using a steam cleaner as a chemical-free alternative can effectively remove dirt and grime. Regular maintenance after cleaning is essential, with Screwfix suggesting cleaning grout lines gently with a mild cleaner or baking soda paste to prevent dirt buildup.
Applying a grout sealant is recommended to protect the grout from moisture and stains, making future cleaning easier. Keeping the grout dry is crucial to prevent mold growth, especially in moisture-prone areas like bathrooms and kitchens. In cases where grout is severely discolored or damaged, using grout pens for quick touch-ups or considering re-grouting may be necessary.
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