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4 Common Tile and Grout Myths

One of the first things people reach for when tile and grout surfaces get dirty, is stinky and discolored is bleach. Stop!

Bleach is great for a general clean, but the idea that bleach is good for cleaning tile and grout is a myth!

Good News and Bad News
The good news is that bleach will disinfect, whiten and remove stains and contaminates. The bad news that with frequent use, bleach weakens the structure of the grout and causes it to become brittle and deteriorate much quicker. Continuing to buy the myth that bleach is best will cause serious problems with your tile and grout surfaces, costing you a lot more money in the long run.

Here are 4 more common myths about tile and grout:

Myth: Acid based cleaners are safe for tile and grout surfaces.
Truth: Even though acid based cleaners claim they may be good at cleaning tile, when used frequently, or in too strong of a concentration, these cleaners are harsh and cause damage by eroding your grout and emitting harmful vapors, which tarnish fixtures like stainless steel faucets. If you must use acid based products, use only those cleaners that are specifically made for use with tile and grout surfaces.

Myth: To eliminate stubborn stains in grout joints, scrub vigorously with a wire brush.
Truth: Wire brushes are another sure fire way to damage your tile and grout. You should never use a brush any harsher than one with soft or medium bristles along with a solution that cleans and breaks up the dirt to enable removal with a wet vac.

Myth: For deeper cleaning, allow soapy water to stand on grout and tile surfaces.
Truth: While pre-soaking may help to loosen the dirt, never leave soapy water to dry on grout and tile surfaces. Residue from soapy water is tacky and draws dirt like a magnet. Always thoroughly rinse the tile and grout floor with clean water, before soap has dried completely, then use a wet vac.

Myth: By applying a sealing agent to a tile and grout floor, contamination and maintenance are no longer a problem.
Truth: Although proper cleaning and sealing of your tile and grout floor reduces contamination and the need for maintenance, erosion of the sealer will occur by constant wear in tear in high traffic areas. In order to continually repel traffic stains, food stains and stains from dirty mop water, it is necessary to periodically clean and reapply the sealer.

Gator Clean can restore the beauty of your tile and grout quickly and efficiently with our professional system and expert technicians.