The Tile & Grout Cleaning Consumer Guide
Tile and grout look great when clean but trap soil, grease and bacteria over time. This guide explains professional methods, sealing, and how to keep hard surfaces looking their best between professional cleans.
Why Grout Discolours
Porous grout
Unsealed grout absorbs spills, grease and dirty mop water.
Wet areas
Showers and bathrooms grow mould and mildew in grout lines.
Kitchens
Cooking grease lands on floors and settles into grout.
Hard water
Mineral deposits leave white haze on tile and grout.
Professional Cleaning Methods
| Method | Best For | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Truck-mounted extraction | Large floors, heavy soil | Deep clean, fast dry |
| Scrub & extract | Residential floors, showers | Restores grout colour |
| Vapour / steam | Sanitising wet areas | Kills mould & bacteria |
| Acid wash | Mineral & efflorescence | Removes haze (sealed surfaces only) |
Sealing After Cleaning
Penetrating sealers
Soak into grout to repel water and oil-based stains.
Colour seal
Restores uniform grout colour and adds a protective barrier.
Re-seal frequency
Every 1–2 years for floors; annually for wet areas.
Cure time
Keep the surface dry for 24–48 hours after sealing.
Maintenance Between Cleans
Use a pH-neutral cleaner (not vinegar or bleach), mop with clean water changed frequently, use a squeegee on shower glass after each use, and re-seal grout annually. Avoid abrasive scouring pads that scratch tile glaze.