Mold growth is problematic in many homes and may be most common in bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms. This is a natural substance that thrives in areas that are moist and warm with poor air circulation. This organic material has been growing in environments around the world for millions of years, but it is not a substance that you want in your home. One of the most common areas where you may notice mold growth is in the grout between shower tiles. The good news is that there are several effective ways to clean mold from grout and to restore the cleanliness of your home.
Why You Need to Clean Mold from Grout
Grout
is a hard material that is essential for function and aesthetics in tiled
areas. While it is hard, it is also very porous. In bathrooms, kitchens and
laundry rooms, moisture can work its way into the grout. Because these areas
may have poor air circulation and may not regularly be dried out, grout is the
perfect environment for mold growth.
Mold grows easily, but it should not be allowed to remain in the space. The
material can cause staining, unpleasant odors and illness. There are several
different types of mold that are common in these areas, and their specific
effects vary considerably. In many homes, cleaning mold from shower grout and
other surfaces requires regular effort. Thankfully, mold is easy to kill and to
remove using several methods.
The Easy Way to Clean Mold from Grout
Before
you clean mold from grout, you need to choose your preferred method. Chlorine
bleach is a common cleaning agent that can be effective. Because bleach can
cause discoloration on colored grout, it generally should only be used on white
grout. Allow the bleach to sit on the affected area for approximately 30
minutes. Then, use a soft bristle brush to scrub the surface. This process may
need to be repeated several times for the best results.
Another option is to clean mold from grout using distilled white vinegar. This
option is ideal for white and colored grout because it does not cause
discoloration. As is the case when cleaning mold from grout with bleach, you
will need to allow the white vinegar to stand on the moldy grout for 30 minutes
before scrubbing it with a small brush.
You can also use baking soda to clean mold from grout. By combing a few
teaspoons of water with a half-cup of baking soda, you can make a thick paste.
Spread this paste over the grout generously. After 10 minutes, scrub the grout
with a brush. For tough mold stains, you can slowly pour hydrogen peroxide
solution over the paste after the paste has been in place for 10 minutes. This
will create fizzing, and the fizzing can dislodge the mold so that it is easier
to scrub away with a brush. Regardless of whether you use bleach, vinegar or
baking soda to clean mold from grout, the surface should be rinsed thoroughly
after your cleaning session to maintain the grout’s excellent condition.
How to Deal with Moldy Caulk
The caulk that creates a watertight seal around tubs, sinks and other fixtures can also become moldy. You can use these same steps to clean the caulk. However, caulk will need to be replaced periodically as well. When you replace the caulk, look for products that have been specifically designed with mildew-resistant properties.
Important Tips for Cleaning Mold from Shower Grout
While
grout is a hard, durable material, it can be damaged through the cleaning
process. Some cleaning agents can deteriorate grout when the remain on the
surface for an extended period of time. Therefore, you may need to set a timer
to ensure that you proceed with the scrubbing and rinsing steps in a timely
manner. In addition, some agents are harsh on skin. They can also harm the eyes
and nose, and they should not be ingested. Regardless of the cleaning strategy
that you use, you should wear gloves and avoid coming in close contact with the
agents.
If the grout is damaged, avoid scrubbing it. This can cause more grout to
loosen and fall off. Instead, you should schedule grout repair or replacement
service with a professional. Some cleaning processes can actually damage the
grout. For example, if you use a hard-bristle brush, you may strip away some of
the grout. The use of a firmer brush may be particularly damaging when
excessive pressure is applied. The amount of friction and pressure used should
be balanced with the condition of the grout and the firmness of the brush.
Reducing Mold Growth in the Home
Anyone
with grout in their home needs to know how to clean mold from grout. Fighting
mold growth in kitchens, bathrooms and laundry rooms may seem like a
never-ending battle, but you can reduce the likelihood of mold growth by taking
a few steps. For example, in the moist and warm areas of the home, install and
use a dehumidifier. Running the HVAC system regularly is a great way to
maintain a reasonable humidity level in the home, so you may use this system
even when the outdoor temperature is mild. Ventilation fans in the laundry room
and bathroom should be run while these rooms are in use and for a reasonable
period of time afterward.
Cleaning mold from grout can seem frustrating, but you can successfully remove it
without hassle when you know which products or cleaning agents to use. Keep
these cleaning tips in mind so that you can keep your home as clean as possible
without damaging the grout in the process.