Ceramic tile is a durable and decorative surface covering. The grout between tiles, however, can be a dirt and mildew magnet. Cleaning ceramic tile grout is not particularly difficult, but it can be tedious and require a bit of elbow grease. There are a number of commercial and home cleaners that make the job easier, but keep in mind that each method has its positives and negatives.
A Natural Ceramic Tile Grout Cleaner
Vinegar is a natural antibacterial substance that has many cleaning uses. Baking soda is a great cleaner and mild abrasive. Combine the two to create a great natural cleaner by making a loose paste and applying it to your grout.
Let the paste sit for a few minutes and then scrub it with a narrow brush. An old toothbrush may be too soft but can work in a pinch. A better solution is to buy a grout cleaning brush at your local home repair center.
Once you've scrubbed the grout clean, rinse it with a damp cloth.
Getting White Grout Clean
For white or light colored grout or for particularly tough mold or mildew stains, consider bleach. You can purchase a bleach-based cleaner or mix a 50/50 solution of bleach and water to clean stubborn grout stains.
When using bleach or bleach-based cleaners, be sure to have proper ventilation to remove harmful fumes. Also, be sure to wear gloves and older clothing. Never mixed bleach-based cleaners with other substances; toxic fumes can be generated from these types of mixtures.
A Mild Grout Cleaning Alternative
Another alternative grout cleaning solution is hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide is an effective grout cleaner that doesn't produce odors. As an added benefit, hydrogen peroxide is the perfect cleaner for those with allergies or sensitivities to harsh chemicals.
Simply apply some hydrogen peroxide to your grout and allow it to sit for several minutes. Brush the treated grout and then rinse with a damp cloth or mop.
 | There are many great reasons to use natural cleaning products from your pantry. You won't have to breathe in harsh fumes or expose your family to strong chemicals, and you'll save money by giving up those expensive store-bought commercial cleaners. |
 | Frugal cleaning supplies generally aren't store-bought. Learn how to make your own homemade cleaners. |
To create homemade dish soap that is as strong as the store-bought version, start with Castile soap and a few other household ingredients. |
Just when you thought you had heard everything, here are more household hints to surprise you! These should help to keep things in your apartment running as smoothly as ever. |
Often, when it's cleaning time, we go to the store to buy cleaning supplies--a cleaning item for this, this one for that-- and by the time we are done, the only cleaning that we have done is in our checkbooks. You don't need to run to the store. Everything needed to clean quickly, effectively and safely for our families is right in our home. Try these natural cleaning recipes next time you clean. |
