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Tile and grout cleaning is essential to maintaining an attractive and healthy home. They can accumulate dirt, grime, and bacteria over time, making them unappealing to look at and potentially harmful to your well-being. 

Proper cleaning and maintenance of these areas in your bathroom, kitchen, and laundry offer numerous benefits. Below, we discuss different types of tiles and grout, cleaning techniques, and how to hire the right person for the job.

Overview

• ​​Types of tiles
• Common grout Types
• Tile and grout cleaning techniques
• DIY vs. Professional Cleaning
• How much does tile and grout cleaning cost?
• Choosing the right professional cleaner
• Questions to ask your cleaner
• FAQs

Types of Tiles

There are several types of tiles that are most commonly used in homes, each with its unique characteristics and cleaning requirements. The most popular types of tiles are porcelain, ceramic, stone, and glass.

Porcelain and ceramic tiles are durable, long-lasting, and easy to maintain. They are ideal for high-traffic areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways. These types of tiles can be cleaned using a variety of techniques, including scrubbing and cleaning by hand, pressure washing, steam cleaning, and chemical cleaning.

Stone tiles, such as marble, granite, and slate, are beautiful and add a touch of elegance to any home. However, stone tiles require special care and attention when cleaning. Using acidic cleaners on stone tiles can cause damage and discolouration. Therefore, it's essential to use a pH-neutral cleaner when cleaning stone tiles.

Glass tiles are becoming increasingly popular in modern homes due to their sleek and sophisticated look. However, cleaning glass tiles can be challenging as they are prone to scratching and staining. It's essential to use a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner and avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers when cleaning glass tiles.

Common Grout Types

Grout is the material that fills the gaps between tiles, keeping them in place and providing a finished look to the surface. There are several types of grout, including sanded, unsanded, epoxy, and cementitious.

Sanded grout is the most commonly used type of grout and is ideal for tiles with larger joints. It contains sand, which provides a more durable and stable surface. Unsanded grout, on the other hand, is used for tiles with smaller joints and contains no sand.

Epoxy grout is a type of grout that is highly resistant to stains, chemicals, and water. It is ideal for high-moisture areas such as bathrooms and kitchens. Epoxy grout is also highly durable and can last for several years without the need for replacement.

Cementitious grout is a mixture of cement, sand, and water and is the most affordable type of grout. However, it is also the most susceptible to stains and can be difficult to clean.

A professional cleaner will know which products and techniques are best for grout cleaning.

Learn more: How to Fix Grout Cracks

Tile and Grout Cleaning Techniques

There are several techniques for cleaning tiles and grout, depending on the type of tiles and grout, the level of dirt and grime, and the amount of time available. Here are some of the most common tile and grout cleaning techniques:

Scrubbing and Cleaning by Hand

This technique involves using a scrubbing brush, warm water, and a cleaning solution to remove dirt and grime from tiles and grout. It's an effective and affordable way to clean tiles and grout, but it can be time-consuming and labour-intensive.

Pressure Washing

Pressure washing involves using a high-pressure stream of water to blast away dirt and grime from tiles and grout. It's an effective way to clean large areas quickly, but it can be damaging to delicate surfaces.

Steam Cleaning

Steam cleaning is an eco-friendly and chemical-free cleaning method that uses hot vapour to clean surfaces. The steam penetrates the porous surfaces of tiles and grout, removing dirt, stains, and bacteria. Steam cleaning is effective in cleaning tiles and grout without using harsh chemicals that can damage or discolour the surfaces.

One of the main advantages of steam cleaning is that it sanitises surfaces by killing bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms that can cause illnesses. Steam cleaning machines heat water to temperatures of up to 115 degrees Celsius which produces steam that can kill up to 99.9% of germs and bacteria.

To use a steam cleaner, you first fill the machine's water tank with water and turn it on. Once the water is heated, the steam cleaner will emit hot vapour, which can be directed onto the surfaces of the tiles and grout using a nozzle or attachment. The steam loosens dirt and grime, making it easy to wipe away with a cloth or mop.

Chemical Cleaning

Chemical cleaning involves using cleaning solutions that contain chemicals such as bleach, ammonia, or acid to remove dirt and grime from tiles and grout. Chemical cleaning is effective in removing stubborn stains, but it can be damaging to tiles and grout if not used properly. Harsh chemicals can corrode grout and cause tiles to fade or discolour, so it’s essential to pick the right tile and grout cleaner for floors and walls.

DIY vs. Professional Cleaning

DIY cleaning is an affordable way to clean grout and tiles, however, it may not be as effective as professional cleaning, and it can be time-consuming. Also, if you’re using the incorrect products or techniques, it can cause damage to some tiles and grout.

Professional tile and grout cleaning, on the other hand, is a more effective and efficient option. Professional cleaners have the knowledge, skills, and equipment to clean tiles and grout effectively without damaging the surfaces. They use advanced cleaning solutions and techniques that can remove even the most stubborn stains and bacteria with a tile cleaning machine.

How much does tile and grout cleaning cost?

The cost of tile and grout cleaning in Australia can vary depending on a number of factors, including the size of the area to be cleaned, the type of tiles and grout, and the level of cleaning required.

On average, you can expect to pay between $7 to $25 per square metre for tile and grout cleaning services in Australia. 

However, the cost can be higher for more complex jobs or where there is a need for specialised equipment or cleaning solutions. Additionally, some companies may charge a minimum fee for smaller jobs.

It's always best to obtain quotes from several reputable cleaning companies in your area to get a better idea of the price of your specific job.

Benefits of Professional Tile and Grout Cleaning

There are several benefits of professional tile and grout cleaning, including:

Improved Appearance and Hygiene

Professional cleaning can improve the appearance of tiles and grout by removing dirt, stains, and grime. It can also improve the hygiene of your home by removing bacteria and germs that can cause sickness.

Increased Lifespan of Tiles and Grout

You can extend the lifespan of tiles and grout by removing dirt and grime that can lead to damage over time. Mould and mildew growth can cause grout to deteriorate and crack, and thorough cleaning helps prevent this.

Reduced Risk of Mould and Bacteria Growth

Cleaning can help prevent the growth of mould and bacteria in the first place by removing moisture and dirt that can provide a breeding ground for these microorganisms. This can improve the air quality of your home and reduce the risk of respiratory illnesses.

Choosing the Right Professional Cleaner

When choosing a professional cleaner for your tiles and grout, it's essential to consider several factors, including:

• Experience: Look for a cleaner with experience in cleaning tiles and grout. An experienced cleaner will have the knowledge and skills to clean them effectively without causing damage.
• Equipment: Find a cleaner with advanced tile and grout cleaning tools that can do the job thoroughly and safely.
• Cost: Compare the cost of different professional cleaners and choose one that offers high-quality services at a reasonable price.
• Reviews: Read reviews and testimonials from previous customers to gauge the quality of the services offered by a professional cleaner.

Questions to Ask Your Cleaner

Here are some questions that can be helpful to ask when hiring a professional cleaner:

• Can you provide references from previous work?
• Are you licensed or insured?
• How long have you been in business?
• How do you communicate with customers during the process?
• Are you flexible with your schedule, and can you work on weekends if necessary?

FAQs

Why should I have my tiles and grout professionally cleaned?

Professional tile and grout cleaning can help remove built-up dirt, stains, and bacteria that can be difficult to clean with regular household cleaners. It can also improve the appearance of your floors or walls and help them last longer.

How often should I have my tiles and grout professionally cleaned?

The frequency of professional cleaning depends on factors such as the amount of foot traffic, spills, and the type of tiles and grout. However, it's generally recommended to have tiles and grout professionally cleaned every 1–2 years.

Can I clean my tiles and grout myself?

While regular cleaning can help maintain your tiles and grout, professional cleaning can provide a deeper clean and remove stains and buildup that may be difficult to remove on your own.

Is professional tile and grout cleaning safe?

Yes, professional cleaning is generally safe for your tiles and grout. However, it's important to ensure that the cleaning solutions used are appropriate for your specific tiles and grout.

How long does professional tile and grout cleaning take?

The time it takes to clean your tiles and grout depends on the size of the area to be cleaned, the level of dirt and stains, and the equipment and cleaning methods used. However, most jobs can be completed in a few hours.

How soon can I walk on my tiles after cleaning?

It's best to wait at least 2–3 hours before walking on your tiles after professional cleaning to allow them to fully dry.

Tile and Grout Cleaning Near Me

All the costs quoted were sourced at the time this article was written. They are to be used as an AUD cost guide and may vary locally, and are subject to market changes.