9 Mistakes Homeowners Make When Cleaning Tile and Grout Themselves

Tile floors and walls are meant to be easy-care and long-lasting. But over time, grime inevitably builds up in grout lines and on tile surfaces. Homeowners attempting DIY tile cleaning often find lackluster results. Certain common mistakes lead to lingering dirt, stains and damage. Understanding where DIY tile cleaning goes wrong helps homeowners recognize when to call in professional cleaners for superior outcomes. Let's examine 9 mistakes amateurs make, and how pros get tile sparkling again.

#1 Using the Wrong Products

Homeowners often grab whatever general cleaner is handy rather than products suitable for tile and grout. But harsh chemicals can etch, discolor or degrade tile surfaces if incorrect for the tile type. Professionals use special grout cleaners, degreasers and alkaline-based products appropriate for the specific tile material. Correct chemistry avoids tile damage while lifting dirt.

#2 Letting Grime Build Up

Waiting too long between deep cleans allows grime and staining to become heavily embedded. Years of oil, soap scum, minerals and dirt deposit into the porous grout, becoming nearly impossible to extract manually. Professionals know consistent periodic cleaning is needed to prevent buildup and permanent discoloration. Staying ahead of the grime prevents cementing it in.

#3 Ignoring Grout Sealing

Many homeowners neglect to seal grout lines, allowing them to absorb grime rapidly. Regular sealing by pros fills pores with a protective barrier that prevents deep soiling of the grout. Unsealed grout stains hopelessly over time. Keeping sealant fresh is key.

#4 Failing To Kill Mold and Mildew

Mold and mildew blooms go unnoticed and untreated in damp grout lines and corners. Bleach solutions only temporarily remove dark stained spots. Pros use professional-grade antimicrobial cleaners combined with extraction tools that kill mold and prevent regrowth. Mold won't recur if fully eliminated.

#5 Focusing Only On Surfaces

Cleaning only visible tile surfaces without addressing grimy grout lines or gaps at trim results in a mismatch of clean tiles surrounded by dark dirty joints. Pros meticulously scrub, edge and extract built-up grime from every grout line and crevice. No transition lines remain between clean tiles and dirty grout.

#6 Using Inadequate Tools

Typical scrub brushes cannot extract heavy buildup from deeply stained grout. Pros equip truck-mounted steam, pressure and vacuum systems combined with stiff grout brushes to thoroughly scour and suction away years of accumulated grunge homeowners can't touch. Extracting rather than spreading grime is critical.

#7 Failure to Buff and Reseal Tile

Simply cleaning tile and grout doesn't restore original luster. Pros buff surfaces with polishers and reseal grout after cleaning. This removes residues, smooths textures and adds protective barriers. Your tilework shines like new again.

#8 Avoiding HVAC and Sink Drains

Neglected vents, drains and crevices accumulate disgusting deposits out of sight. Thorough pros scrub vents, extract sinks and clear all surrounding buildup. Missing these zones leaves ongoing sources of odor and debris.

#9 Spot Cleaning Instead of Whole Area

Trying to spot clean a few tiles or grout lines leads to a patchy appearance. Professionals know uniformly cleaning floors and walls prevents uneven results. Consistent techniques and products on the entire surface prevent bright clean spots surrounded by dull grimy tiles.

Conclusion

Restore the original beauty of your tile and grout by avoiding common cleaning mistakes amateurs make. Trust Affordable Cleaning & Gardening Services tile cleaning experts to revitalize your surfaces with commercial-grade equipment, products and experience homeowners lack. Contact us today to schedule sparkling grout and tile throughout your property!