A Step by Step Guide to Cleaning Mould and Mildew from Tile Grout

Mould and mildew are the banes of any tiled surface. These substances cause discolouration of tile grout. Mould can also cause health implications such as lung damage and allergic reactions. Mould and mildew are typically found in the following place:

– Tile Grout
– Bath edges- Window Ledges
– Shower fittings
– Ceiling corners
– Areas with poor ventilation

Tiled surfaces, in particular, can become stained with mould and mildew – this makes tiled areas look dingy and unappealing.It also takes a great effort to clean tiles properly to remove mould and mildew.

How to clean mould and mildew from tile grout

Here we divulge the step by step guide for cleaning tile grout. This is a time-consuming process that also requires much physical effort. In comparison to the relative ease that PVC bathroom panels can be cleaned, tile grout cleaning is a nightmare. The time required however obviously depends on the area of tiles to clean:

Tools & Equipment

• Baking Soda
• Vinegar
• Hydrogen Peroxide
• Spray Bottle
• Toothbrush or Grout Brush

1. Remove surface stains with vinegar

First, create a solution of vinegar and water to a mix of 1:1 (i.e. half water, half vinegar) in your spray bottle. Spray the tiled area with your solution and allow it to stand for 5 minutes. Next, you must scrub the tiled area with your toothbrush or grout brush to work in the solution and remove the mould & mildew.

2. Continue with baking soda to remove tougher stains

If the mould and mildew persist, baking soda should be introduced. Create a solution of baking soda and water in a small bowl. Using your brush, apply the baking soda solution and work it into the grout. Apply more vinegar solution on top of the baking soda. This should cause the soda to bubble. At this point, you should use your brush to work in the solution and remove more mould & mildew.

3. Consider using Hydrogen Peroxide for extremely tough stains

Hopefully, baking soda and vinegar should have done the trick. If not, hydrogen peroxide can be used. Spray the substance directly onto any remaining stains and allow to sit for several minutes. Using your brush, work the hydrogen peroxide into the grout and the stains should disappear. You may have to repeat this step several times.

Throughout – Rinse with warm water

At each stage of the process, you must rinse the tiled surface with warm water. This helps to remove any excess chemicals so that you can continue to scrub and clean the grout.

The process is straightforward, but the problem is the physical effort and time involved. Cleaning a whole tiled bathroom takes hours. PVC bathroom panels provide a logical alternative to tiles and grout. To clean a PVC panel, all that is required is a wet cloth. The process can be completed in under 10 minutes. There are less time and effort involved – in comparison cleaning PVC panels is easy, that’s why they are a sensible alternative.