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Does steam cleaning damage grout?

The Ultimate Guide on How to Clean Grout: Separating Fact from Fiction on Steam Cleaning and Grout Damage

As a professional cleaning company, we have come across various misconceptions and myths about grout cleaning, especially when it comes to steam cleaning. Grout cleaning is essential to maintain the cleanliness and longevity of your tiled surfaces, but it is crucial to understand the facts and risks involved in steam cleaning. In this blog, we will separate facts from fiction and provide you with practical tips on how to care for your grout after professional steam cleaning.

Does steam cleaning damage grout?

Why is grout cleaning important?

Grout is a porous material that absorbs dirt, dust, and debris over time. If left uncleaned, it can become a breeding ground for bacteria, mold, and mildew, leading to unpleasant odors and health risks. Additionally, dirty grout can make your tiles look dingy and unattractive, reducing the aesthetic appeal of your home or business.

Regular grout cleaning is necessary to remove dirt, grime, and stains, and prevent the buildup of mold and bacteria. It also helps to maintain the appearance and functionality of your tiles, extending their lifespan and saving you from costly repairs or replacements.

Common misconceptions about grout cleaning

There are many misconceptions about grout cleaning, such as using bleach or vinegar to clean grout or scrubbing it with a toothbrush. While these methods may seem effective, they can damage your grout and tiles, leading to costly repairs or replacements.

Bleach and vinegar are highly acidic and can erode the grout and tiles’ surface, leading to discoloration and cracks. Scrubbing with a toothbrush can also damage the grout, causing it to crumble and break.

Understanding the risks of steam cleaning grout – low-pressure steam vs. high-pressure steam

The Grout Medic’s steam cleaning involves using low-pressure steam to remove dirt and grime from surfaces and pushing contaminants from within porous grout. Low-pressure steam grout cleaning is the only safe way to steam clean grout.

One of the risks of steam cleaning on grout is that the high-pressure steam can erode grout, causing it to weaken and crumble over time. Another risk is that high-pressure steam cleaning can cause the grout to become dislodged from the tiles, leading to gaps and spaces between the tiles. This can cause your tiles to shift, become uneven, or completely fall off, leading to costly repairs or replacements. Or worse, water damage behind your tiled surface.

Maintaining clean grout – tips and tricks

The Grout Medic will safely and effectively steam clean your grout, and seal it with a deep-penetrating grout sealer.  Afterwards, it is essential to maintain clean grout to prevent future dirt and grime buildup.

Here are some tips to help you maintain clean grout:

  1. Wipe up spills immediately: Spills and stains can penetrate your grout quickly, so it is essential to wipe them up immediately to prevent stains and discoloration.
  2. Sweep or vacuum regularly: Dirt and dust can accumulate on your tiles and grout, leading to discoloration and stains. Sweep or vacuum your floors regularly to prevent dirt buildup.
  3. Use a mild cleaning solution: Use a mild cleaning solution, such as a mixture of water and mild detergent, to clean your grout regularly. Avoid using harsh chemicals, such as bleach or vinegar, as they can damage your grout and tiles.
  4. Ditch the scouring tools: Don’t scrub your grout and tile with scouring pads or brushes. Even soft brushes work to whittle away your grout over time and will work to break the protective seal that has been applied after your professional steam cleaning.
  5. Dry your shower after use: Wipe down your shower walls after each use to keep water from sitting on the surface of your grout. This will help your grout sealant stand up to water penetration and staining longer.

Grout cleaning is essential to maintain the cleanliness and longevity of your tiles. While steam cleaning is an effective method, hiring the wrong company or doing it yourself with the wrong tools can pose risks to your grout’s integrity and cause damage. By understanding the facts and risks involved and the tips provided, you can maintain your grout effectively and avoid costly repairs or replacements.

We get grout cleaner with low-pressure steam.

For safe, low-pressure grout steam cleaning, call a Grout Medic near you. Get in touch with us by filling out our form here. We look forward to hearing from you!

Also read: Why hire a tile grout cleaning service provider?

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