Newly tiled floors have grout haze, and removing it is frustrating, especially when you don’t know what it is and how to clean it properly. Grout haze is left during installation to hide latex and cement deposits. It can cover a section or the entire tile, marring its aesthetic appeal.
In most cases, the haze isn’t decipherable because you don’t know what tiled floors look like without it. Dullness, easy formation of footprints and tiles getting dirty very quickly are the most common signs of grout haze.
Removal of grout haze is tricky because most traditional cleaning methods don’t work when the haze gets old. You can hire professional end of lease cleaners in Ipswich when ending a tenancy to
perform bond cleaning in your rental property. However, use the following tips if you want to tackle this problem yourself first.
Clean within 48 Hours of Applications
Grout haze is of different types, but cement, ready-mix and epoxy are the most common. It is the easiest to remove within 48 hours of application. If you have the opportunity to clean cement or ready-mix haze within this period, buff the tiles with a dry microfiber towel.
Another method that works well is scrubbing with warm water and a scouring pad. Scrub in a circular motion and remove the residues with a microfiber mop.
This is a professional technique of professional cleaners who offer
bond cleaning in Ipswich use to deep clean floors when they are heavily soiled. Epoxy grout haze is harder to remove, and you will need a commercial cleaner.
Use a Wet Cheesecloth Or Terry Towel
Wet a cheesecloth or terry towel with warm water and ensure it is damp and not dripping. Slowly and gently wipe the hazy surface of the tiles. This removal method works well, and you don’t need to apply elbow grease. However, it only works when the grout is dry and applied 24 hours prior to cleaning.
Removing Grout Haze with Vinegar
Since most grout hazes are
mineral deposits, the acetic acid in vinegar can dissolve its residues. All you need to do is mix water and white vinegar in equal proportions and apply the mixture to the affected areas. Scrub gently with a cleaning pad, then wipe the residues with a microfiber towel o mop. Before you clean with vinegar solutions, make sure to wipe the floors with water to get better results.
Caution: Vinegar or any acidic cleaning solution is bad for marble, granite and other natural stone surfaces. Thus, use this method to clean grout haze from ceramic and porcelain tiles.
Use a Commercial Cleaner
If none of the above methods work, get a commercial grout haze remover. It will have acids and chemicals strong enough to dissolve thick layers. Follow the instructions on the label to ensure the product works, and you don’t damage the grout or tiles.
But, make sure to always dilute the cleaner with 10 or 20 parts of water to control its acidity and prevent irreversible damage. For cleaning natural stone tiles, get an alkaline grout haze remover. Additionally, don’t wait for the grouts to dry completely because the haze will be harder to remove when dry.
Always Clean the Floors with Water
Whether you clean grout haze with natural or commercial cleaners, you must remove residues with water, as the professional end-of-lease cleaners in Ipswich do when cleaning at the
end of a tenancy. Wash the floors with warm water in open areas and mop indoor floors with a damp microfiber mop. This step is crucial to ensure no residues of cleaners remain on the floors as it will attract dirt, dust, and grime.
Tips for Cleaning Grout Haze Effectively
If you can prevent grout haze from setting, do it as you can clean the tiles better and ensure their aesthetic appeal. Wipe the tiles immediately after the grout has dried. Cement and ready-mix grouts set within a day, but epoxy grouts can take 4 to 14 days. If your floors have internal heating, turn it off before cleaning the haze.
Never use harsh tools to remove grout haze, as you can damage the grouts and the tiles. These damages can make you lose your bond. Therefore, don’t hesitate to take the assistance of professional end of lease cleaners in Ipswich if you are unsure about cleaning the surfaces and fixtures in your rental property.
Conclusion
Grout haze is common on newly tiled floors affecting their shine and look. To remove it effectively, it is best to do it within 48 hours of the grout application. Use the tips shared above to remove grout haze from new tile floors. If you cannot and need assistance
, hire professional bond cleaners to do the task for you.
