Does your bathroom grout look as though it has been invaded by feisty fungi? Do the kitchen tiles need a good scrub? You’ve probably realised the standard mop job just spreads grime around, causing tiles and grout to become discoloured as mildew runs rampant.
So what can you do about it?
No dramas. An easy and economical DIY is just a quick supermarket trip away. In fact, you probably already have most of these DIY Tile & Grout Cleaners in the kitchen cupboard! And no, we’re not talking about industrial strength chemicals that will leave the family choking on fumes. These easily applicable homemade cleaning solutions use natural ingredients to keep the household safe, and make those tired tiles look new again.
Just be sure to add a little elbow grease.
Making some DIY Tile & Grout Cleaners
Baking Soda
Baking soda is surprisingly effective against light mould and mildew stains, leaving very little mess behind. Simply dab a wet cloth or sponge into a bowl of baking soda and scrub it thoroughly on the stains. Repeat as needed.
Salt
Just like the fate of garden snails when sprinkled with salt, it is the same with mould. Salt will completely dry mould out. Use a damp cloth or a mop to moisten your tiles and grout before applying a generous serving of salt. Scrub the most heavily affected areas. Leave overnight and scrub again in the morning for best results.
Any kind of salt will do, however the thicker and coarser varieties such as Epsom or sea salt work best.
Vinegar
Few natural household products can match the power of vinegar, a versatile acidic liquid with a myriad of cleaning applications. You may have heard it can be used to clean the microwave, the stove, and countless other kitchen utensils. Did you know it is also effective against mould on tiles and grout as well?
Mix one part vinegar and one part water into a spray bottle or bucket, then apply liberally over the affected areas. Let it soak for a minute or two, then start scrubbing with a hard brush. This works like a charm against caked-on soap and water spots too. Didn’t quite have the desired effect? Try adding a bit of baking soda and watch the scum quickly slide away.
Lemon Juice
Lemon juice works well as a stain remover too, covering unsightly smudges with ease. Much like vinegar, it’s also highly acidic which makes it very difficult for mildew and mould to grow back again. For best results, try mixing it up with some baking soda.
Hydrogen Peroxide
If all else fails, give hydrogen peroxide a go. It is a common chemical compound usually used for disinfecting cuts or scrapes. Given its fungicide and whitening properties, it works impressively well on tiles and grout. Add a few drops to some baking soda to create a moist paste. Apply this to the worst affected areas, covering it with plastic and leaving it overnight. Rinse with water in the morning and repeat if necessary.
A professional approach
Can’t quite get those stubborn stains out? Get in touch with O’Sheas for a professional tile and grout clean. We provide a comprehensive guaranteed service by applying a special liquid solution, followed by a thorough machine clean, and finishing off with a final sealant to prevent mould and mildew from reforming.
