Use and Care Manual
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Cleaning Grout
There are many grouts on the market today that are stain resistant and do not require a sealer. However, not all grouts will have these
characteristics and special care must be taken to ensure product performance is not compromised due to exposer to harsh cleaners.
Always remember:
• Clean tile and stone regularly according to standard cleaning guidelines. Anything safe for the tile will typically be safe for the grout.
PH neutral cleaners are highly recommended. Mopping dirty tiles will cause muddy water to get stuck in the grout joints, therefore, keeping
tiles cleaned regularly will improve the look of the grout.
• Be careful with acidic foods, drinks and dyes as they may stain certain types of grout.
• Never use cleaners that contain ammonia, acids or bleach. Some stains may be set so deep in the grout that bleach may be the only
thing to get your grout clean. Bleaching causes the pores of the grout to open and hold dirt even more. As such, sealing aer bleaching
is highly recommended.
• Prolonged use of bleach and ammonia based products may cause the grout to become brile over time. Use of bleach in wet applications
may result in water damage due to cracking and deterioration.
• Sealing grout prevents staining, however, sealers are not chemical proof and may break down from continued exposure to harsh household
chemical cleaners.
• It is suggested that a breathable penetrating sealer be applied before and aer grouting. This treatment provides an excellent defense
against staining, mold and mildew. Follow the sealing manufacturer’s guidelines for recommendations on how oen a sealer should be
reapplied.
• Tend to spills quickly. Sealers do not prevent 100% of damages caused by spills.
• A medium bristle brush can be used to scrub the grout joints.
Pre and post grout install tips:
• Using a grout release or sealer prior to installation is recommended, especially for product that is porous or has a textured surface.
Oen times grout particles may become trapped and difficult to clean during the standard grouting process and the use of a rag or
sponge may not pull up all the grout haze. Using a grout release and/or sealer will help prevent this from happening. Also important
to note is that grout haze le on the surface of a tile will become difficult to remove and the chemicals needed to remove it at a later
time may damage the tile or alter its look. Heavy duty grout haze removers should be used according to the grout manufacturer’s
recommendations before trying more concentrated acid solutions.
Standard cleaning guidelines for grout:
• Sweep, brush or vacuum loose dirt and dust from the surface. For wall surfaces, grout can be gently wiped down with a clean, dry cloth or rag.
• Mop, brush, or sponge the surface with a mild detergent, degreaser, or tile cleaning solution.
• Rinse the grout thoroughly with clean water to remove any le-over detergents.
• Drying with a clean cloth or rag is recommended to prevent water spots or streaks on the tile.
• Reseal grout periodically as needed.
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