How Does Grout Cleaning Keep Mold at Bay?

If you've noticed dark spots or blackish stains forming between the tiles in your bathroom or kitchen, it's likely mold growth. Mold loves warm, damp environments like showers and sinks and it especially takes hold in porous grout. Regular grout cleaning is the best defense against mold taking over your tiles. Here's how it works.

Kill Mold Before It Spreads

Mold starts with just a few spores that land on your grout. It then rapidly spreads as the spores multiply. According to Home Depot, you should wait about three days, or 72 hours, to let the grout dry before usage. If not removed promptly, mold can leave permanent stains and damage your grout. A professional grout cleaner gets into the crevices to kill mold before an outbreak worsens. Grout cleaning removes 99% of allergens and over 90% of bacteria. By getting on top of mold early, you can stop it from becoming a bigger problem.

Remove Mold Stains

Even after mold is killed, stains may remain on the grout, marring the look of your tiles. DIY cleaners often can't lift these stains. Professional grout cleaning has the scrubbing power, steam, and suction to completely remove mold stains and discoloration. After a thorough cleaning, your tiles and grout look brand new again. No more unsightly black spots. Keeping up with regular grout inspections prevents stains from having a chance to set in and become permanent eyesores.

Seal Grout to Prevent Mold

Part of professional grout cleaning involves sealing the grout lines once they're cleaned away. This protective seal keeps moisture from seeping back into grout and reactivating mold growth. Sealing also creates a smooth, non-porous surface that's less inviting for future mold infestation. As the seal wears over time, be sure to schedule follow-up grout inspection and resealing. Keeping the seal refreshed is crucial for stopping mold in its tracks.

Left untreated, mold can rapidly take over the grout and permanently stain tiles, but you can stop mold before major damage occurs with regular professional cleaning and mold inspection. Thorough cleaning kills existing mold, removes stains, and applies a protective seal. Keeping up with deep cleaning every year or so keeps this common bathroom and kitchen nuisance at bay. Don't let mold tarnish the look of your tiles. With proper tile cleaning, you can maintain a mold-free space. If your grout has seen better days, call Grout Masters for grout cleaning services!