So, you’ve splurged on your dream garden, had all the bits laid down, and are now beaming with pride. It is a good feeling!
Now, you need to move on to phase two of keeping everything looking good! While smaller garden areas may not seem like such a big thing, if you have had tiles laid in your garden, you will need to ensure that the grouting remains in good condition.
Why? It is essential to clean grout regularly to maintain the cleanliness of your tiled surfaces, especially if they make up part of a beautiful, newly laid garden. Dirt and grime can accumulate over grout lines, making them look dull and dirty. Cleaning grout monthly can also prevent the growth of mold, both of which can be harmful to your health as well as your kids and even your pets. By regularly cleaning grout, you can ensure your tiled surfaces look clean and bright.
Luckily, the maintenance of grouting is not tricky, and here, you will be guided through the best tools and tips to keep it in place and sparkly clean!
Grout Rake
A grout rake is a tool used to remove the old grout from between tiles. A grout rake typically has a pointed tip and a serrated blade that allows you to scrape away the grout without damaging the tiles. This tool is commonly used in tile installation and renovation projects to remove old grout before applying new grout.
However, a grout rake can also be used to clean any grouting that you may have in your garden and, when used on freshly laid grouting, is one of the most effective grouting cleaning tools.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
Baking soda and vinegar are both potent cleaning agents that can be used to clean grout effectively. Mix equal parts of baking soda and water in a bucket to form a smooth paste. Then, simply apply it to the grout lines. Let the mixture sit on the grout line for around 5-10 minutes, then spray some vinegar on the paste. The mixture will start to bubble, which means the cleaning process has begun. Scrub the grout lines with a brush, then rinse with water.
Steam Cleaner
A steam cleaner is an effective tool that can be used to clean grout without using any chemicals. Of course, using a steam cleaner does come with its own set of dangers, as you don’t want a backsplash from boiling water! The high-pressure steam will loosen the dirt and grime from the grout lines, making it easy to remove. Point the nozzle of the steam cleaner at the grout lines and move it back and forth. Use a stiff garden brush to scrub the grout lines, then wipe with a clean cloth. Make sure the tiles are dry before walking on them, as this process can cause a slippery surface.
Grout Brush
A grout brush is a specialized tool that is designed to clean grout effectively. It has stiff bristles that can reach into the narrow grout lines and remove dirt and grime. Dip the brush in a cleaning solution, such as the aforementioned baking soda, and then scrub the grout lines. Rinse with water, and voila! The grout is cleaned!
