Maintaining a commercial property is a meticulous task that involves countless details. From the entrance to the restrooms, every aspect contributes to your establishment’s overall impression.
One aspect that’s often overlooked is the cleanliness of grout in tiled areas. Grout is a dense fluid which is used to fill gaps or used as reinforcement in existing structures. It is commonly made of a mixture of water, cement, and sand, and it is often used in construction to fill in spaces between tiles or masonry.
Contrary to popular belief, this isn’t just an aesthetic concern; it’s a matter of hygiene and safety. Mould and mildew can thrive in unsealed grout, posing health risks to employees and customers alike.
This article explores five straightforward methods for cleaning mould from grout, ensuring a pristine and healthy environment in your commercial space.
1. Use Warm Water
When cleaning mould from grout, a simple and chemical-free approach is to use water. This method is perfect if you prefer to avoid harsh chemicals like bleach.
Additionally, it’s safer to avoid strong chemical cleaners in homes with small children, pets, or individuals with respiratory issues. In these cases, using water and physical scrubbing is a safer and more appropriate choice.
Begin by dampening a warm cloth and gently scrubbing the mouldy grout lines. A soft-bristle brush may be useful for stubborn stains to prevent grout from coming off when cleaning. Rinse the area with clean water and pat dry.
It’s important to ventilate the space to prevent further moisture buildup. You can keep the door or window open when cleaning. Excess moisture can encourage mould growth if the grout remains damp, so ensure the area is well-ventilated during and after cleaning.
2. Mix Bleach With Water
A diluted bleach solution is a potent mould killer. When dealing with specific types of grout, here are some examples of gentler bleach variant products available in Singapore:
- Unsealed Grout: Unsealed grout has not been treated with a sealant, leaving it more porous and susceptible to moisture absorption, staining, and mould growth.
You can use standard household bleach, such as Clorox or Domestos, when cleaning unsealed grout lines. These widely available bleach brands effectively remove mould and mildew from unsealed grout.
- Black Grout: Black grout is simply grout that has been pigmented to be black in colour; it shares the same properties and functions as grout in other colours, but its dark shade can be more prone to visible fading or discolouration when cleaned with harsh chemicals.
If you have black grout, be cautious when using bleach, as it may lighten the colour. Opt for a gentler bleach variant, like oxygen bleach or hydrogen peroxide, which is less likely to affect the grout’s colour while still effectively removing mould.
- White Grout: White grout is grout that has been coloured white, typically used for aesthetic reasons to match or contrast with tiles; like other coloured grouts, its main difference lies in its appearance, though it can show dirt and stains more visibly.
Regular household bleach should work well for white grout. However, you may also consider using a gentler bleach variant product like Vanish Colour Safe Chlorine-Free Stain Remover or Clorox Colour Load Bleach. This product is gentle on colours while effectively tackling mould in white grout.
Mix one part of the appropriate bleach with four parts water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the mouldy grout and allow it to sit for about ten minutes. Scrub the grout lines with a brush, then rinse thoroughly with water to remove any residual bleach.
Ensure proper ventilation during this process and wear protective gloves. Be careful when using bleach on coloured grout, as it may fade or discolour it.
3. Use Hydrogen Peroxide To Remove Mould
Hydrogen peroxide is a less abrasive alternative to bleach for mould removal. Prepare a mixture of 5% to 15% hydrogen peroxide and water in a spray bottle. Be sure to test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure that the hydrogen peroxide does not affect the grout’s colour.
If the test area looks unaffected, use the spray bottle to distribute the mixture over the affected areas evenly and allow it to sit for about 10-15 minutes.
Use a clean shower curtain to cover the area and maintain moisture allowing the hydrogen peroxide to penetrate deeper into the grout for deep-rooted mould.
After waiting, scrub the grout with a soft sponge and rinse thoroughly. Avoid mixing hydrogen peroxide with other cleaning agents like vinegar, bleach and ammonia, as it can create harmful fumes.
4. Mix Baking Soda With Water
Baking soda is a fantastic natural cleaner to help eliminate mould from grout. For specific products available in Singapore, you can look for Arm & Hammer Baking Soda.
This is a widely available brand of baking soda that you can use to clean mould from grout. It is a versatile and safe option for various types of grout.
Create a paste by mixing baking soda with a small amount of water. Apply the baking soda paste directly onto the mouldy grout lines using a clean spatula, putty knife, or your fingers. Ensure that the paste covers the affected areas evenly.
Then let it sit for 10-15 minutes, and then scrub it with a soft brush or sponge. Rinse with clean water and wipe dry with a clean cloth or towel.
This method is gentle and safe for most grout types. However, always conduct a patch test on coloured grout to ensure it won’t cause discolouration before applying it to the entire grout surface.
5. Dilute White Vinegar With Water
Vinegar is another natural cleaning agent that can effectively combat mould on grout. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the mouldy grout, wait for 10-15 minutes, and then scrub with a soft brush or sponge.
Rinse with water to remove any vinegar residue. Finally, pat the cleaned grout dry with a clean cloth or towel. Adequate drying helps prevent the possibility of mould returning due to residual moisture.
Finally, avoid using vinegar on natural stone grout, as it can damage the surface. For natural stone grout, consider alternative cleaning solutions like warm water.
6. Steam Cleaning
Many people ask, does steam cleaning damage grout? When done correctly, steam cleaning does not typically damage grout. It can be an effective and safe method for cleaning and sanitising grout.
Steam cleaning uses high-temperature steam to loosen and remove dirt, grime, and mould from grout surfaces without harsh chemicals.
However, it’s crucial to use the steam cleaner correctly, applying an appropriate pressure that varies depending on the type of grout you’re cleaning. A pressure setting of around 1500 to 2000 PSI (pounds per square inch) suits most grout types.
However, it’s important to note that different grout materials may require slight adjustments. For instance, delicate or older grout may benefit from a lower pressure setting, around 1000 to 1500 PSI, to avoid any potential weakening. Conversely, more durable grout types can withstand higher pressures within the recommended range.
By adjusting the steam cleaner’s pressure based on your specific grout type, you can effectively clean without compromising the grout’s integrity over time.
Additionally, if the grout is already in poor condition or has existing cracks or gaps, steam cleaning could exacerbate these issues. To ensure the safety of your grout during steam cleaning, consider having a professional commercial cleaner assess its condition and perform the cleaning if necessary.
Effective Strategies For Preventing Mould In Grout
While there are effective ways for cleaning mouldy grout, wouldn’t it be even better to prevent mould from forming in the first place? Here are four proactive measures to prevent mouldy grout in your commercial space.
Wipe Down Tiles
To prevent mould growth, the first step is eliminating excess moisture. Invest in a quality squeegee, such as the versatile Mr-Siga multipurpose silicon squeegee.
Regularly wipe down tiles after use, particularly in areas with high humidity, like bathrooms and kitchens. Removing moisture promptly can significantly reduce the chances of mould taking hold.
In addition to squeegees, consider using absorbent mats or towels to prevent excess water accumulation.
Apply Mould-Prohibiting Solutions
Mould-reducing agents are your allies in the battle against mould. Treat caulking and tiles with these solutions to create an inhospitable environment for mould growth. Here are four effective examples of mould-prohibiting solutions:
- Tea Tree Oil Solution: Tea tree oil is a natural antifungal and antibacterial agent. To create a tea tree oil solution, mix about 10 drops of tea tree oil with a cup of water in a spray bottle. Spray this solution on grout and other mould-prone areas. It not only inhibits mould growth but also leaves a pleasant scent.
- Borax and Water Solution: Borax, also known as sodium borate, is an effective mould inhibitor. Mix half a cup of borax with a gallon of water to create a borax and water solution. Apply this mixture to the grout and allow it to dry. It forms a protective barrier against mould.
- Citrus Seed Extract: Citrus seed extract is another natural mould-inhibiting solution. Combine 20 drops of citrus seed extract with two cups of water in a spray bottle. Spray it on grout and other areas prone to mould. Citrus seed extract has antimicrobial properties that can help prevent mould growth.
- Commercial Grout Sealers: While not a liquid solution, commercial grout sealers are designed to prevent moisture from penetrating grout. Applying a quality grout sealer to your grout lines can be an effective long-term strategy to keep mould at bay.
Apply Grout Sealer
Sealing grout is the key to mould prevention. When grout remains wet, it becomes susceptible to mould infestation. Utilise a silicone grout sealing spray on wet grout to create a protective barrier that prevents moisture from seeping into the building materials.
In Singapore, popular grout sealer products include Aqua Mix Sealer’s Choice Gold and Mapei Ultracare Penetrating Plus Stone, Tile, and Grout Sealer.
This extra layer of defence ensures that your grout remains dry and mould-free, even in high-moisture areas.
Clean Regularly
Consistent and routine maintenance is essential to reduce the likelihood of mould growth on grout.
In high-traffic areas or places with increased moisture exposure, like entrances and reception areas, restrooms and kitchens, consider cleaning the grout weekly to bi-weekly, depending on the specific conditions.
A bi-weekly to monthly cleaning schedule should suffice in areas of lower traffic within commercial properties, such as seldom-used restrooms or storage spaces. However, it’s essential to remain vigilant in areas that may not see frequent foot traffic, as mould can still develop in high-moisture environments.
To clean grout effectively without causing damage, opt for a mild cleaning solution such as a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar.
Use a soft brush or an old toothbrush gently scrub the grout lines. This regular cleaning regimen helps prevent the buildup of soap residues and other pore-forming deposits, significantly reducing the chances of mould formation while preserving the grout’s integrity.
Conclusion About Cleaning Mould From Grout
Effectively cleaning mould from grout is crucial to maintaining a clean and hygienic commercial space. However, prevention is the best route in reducing the frequency and effort required for mould removal.
By following the cleaning tips and preventive measures outlined in this guide, you can enjoy cleaner grout, fewer mould-related headaches, and a more positive impression of your commercial space.
For professional cleaning services and a no-obligation quotation, consider contacting ESP Cleaning Services. Our team of experienced professionals can assist you in maintaining mould-free and pristine grout surfaces.
Request your quotation today and take the first step towards a cleaner and healthier commercial environment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Mould From Grout
What Is The Cost Of Hiring A Professional Commercial Cleaner To Remove Grout For A Commercial Property?
The cost of hiring a professional grout removal service for a commercial property can vary based on several factors. These factors include the size of the area, the severity of the grout issue, the type of grout used, and the location.
ESP Cleaning Services offers no obligation quotation so clients understand the cost and any additional fees that may apply.
Can A Professional Cleaner Guarantee The Complete Removal Of Mould And Ensure It Won’t Return?
While professional cleaners can effectively remove mould from grout, it’s essential to understand that mould prevention is ongoing.
Reputable cleaners will provide recommendations and strategies to prevent future mould growth, such as proper ventilation, moisture control, and regular maintenance routines. However, no service can guarantee that mould will never return, as it depends on various environmental factors.
Do Professionals Offer Ongoing Grout Maintenance For Cleanliness And Mould Prevention?
Many professional cleaning companies offer maintenance plans or ongoing services to keep the grout in your commercial property consistently clean and mould-free.
These plans may include periodic inspections, deep cleaning, and scheduled maintenance to address any emerging issues promptly. Discuss the available options with the cleaner and determine the best approach to maintain your grout’s cleanliness and longevity.
Why Does My Grout Keep Coming Off When Cleaning?
Grout coming off during cleaning may be a sign of deteriorating or improperly installed grout. If the grout was not mixed correctly or didn’t bond well with the tiles during installation, it can become loose over time.
Additionally, using abrasive cleaning tools or harsh chemicals can weaken the grout, causing it to crumble or detach during cleaning. To address this issue, consider having a professional assess the grout’s condition and potentially re-grout the affected areas for a more lasting solution.