Grout is the material used to fill in gaps between tiles on floors, walls, countertops, and other surfaces. Over time, grout can become discolored, stained, or just appear dingy. Using a steam cleaner is an effective and convenient way to clean grout and make it look like new again.
What is Grout?
Grout is a cement-based material used to fill in the joints between tiles. Its purpose is both functional and aesthetic:
- It seals the gaps between tiles to prevent moisture from seeping underneath and causing damage. This protects the integrity of the tiled surface.
- It “locks” tiles in place to prevent shifting or cracking.
- It provides a finished look by creating clean lines between tiles. The color and texture of the grout is meant to complement or match the tiles.
Grout is porous and will absorb liquids, dirt, grime, and stains over time. Regular cleaning is necessary to keep grout looking its best. Using the wrong cleaning methods can actually damage grout or scrub the color right out of it.
Benefits of Using a Steam Cleaner on Grout
Steam cleaners provide a safe, effective way to deep clean grout lines while minimizing the need for chemical cleaners. Here are some of the benefits of using steam for grout cleaning:
Sanitizes Surfaces
The super-heated steam emitted from a steam cleaner can reach temperatures over 200°F. This high heat helps sanitize surfaces by killing 99.9% of germs and bacteria that have taken up residence in porous grout lines.
Steam cleaning provides a chemical-free way to sanitize tile floors in kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas prone to mold and mildew growth. The heat alone is enough to kills germs, bacteria, and wipe out lingering odors.
Lifts Away Dirt and Grime
Steam loosens and lifts away dirt, grime, and oily substances from deep within grout lines. The combination of heat and pressure gets into pores and crevices where typical mopping or wiping cannot reach.
Steam cleaning grout lines will remove years of built-up dirt and stains, restoring the grout’s original color and appearance.
Removes Stains and Discoloration
Not only does steam lift away surface-level dirt, but it also penetrates deep to remove stains, mineral deposits, soap scum, hard water marks, and other discoloration in grout.
Years of spills, drips, standing water, and improper cleaning can cause grout lines to become yellow, brown, or orange. The intense heat from steam breaks up those stubborn stains and restores the grout back to its original brighter whitish shade.
Won’t Damage Surfaces
Steam is an ideal grout cleaner because it does not use any soaps, detergents, or harsh chemicals that could eat away at the grout. Chemical cleaners and acidic products can damage grout over time.
Steam only uses the power of heat and water to safely deep clean grout. It will not erode or scrub away the grout itself when used properly. Always check the steam cleaner’s manual for manufacturer’s recommendations.
Efficient Cleaning
A steam cleaner allows you to deep clean grout quickly and efficiently without having to scrub each line by hand. The pressurized steam penetrates down into the grout line, releasing dirt in just seconds.
Steam cleaning grout takes a fraction of the time and effort of traditional scrubbing on hands and knees. You simply hold the steam cleaner nozzle over the area until it is visibly cleaned.
Reduces Use of Chemicals
Steam cleaning provides an effective alternative to harsh chemical cleaners for grout cleaning. It allows you to reduce the amount of acidic cleaners needed for the job.
Chemical-free steam cleaning is safer for the environment and your family’s health than relying solely on chlorine bleach, ammonia, vinegar, and other caustic cleaning products.
Always spot test steam cleaners in an inconspicuous area first to ensure they will not damage the grout or tiles. Check for any color changes to the grout after it fully dries.
How to Choose a Steam Cleaner for Grout
Not all steam cleaners are created equal when it comes to grout cleaning power. Here’s what to look for when selecting a steam cleaner for grout:
Adjustable Steam Levels
Look for a steam cleaner with variable steam settings ranging from low to very high. Adjustable steam allows you to customize the cleaning power for the type of grout you’re working on.
Higher steam is ideal for porous grout that has deep staining. Lower steam levels are gentler for more delicate grout.
Chemical Injector
Some steam cleaners have a separate chemical injector compartment that allows you to add cleaning solutions into the steam if needed.
This gives the option to use natural cleaning products for very dirty grout lines. Always avoid harsh chemicals like bleach.
Accessories
Choose a steam cleaner with multiple attachments like angled nozzles, brushes, and scrub pads. The accessories help you direct steam into grout lines and give extra scrubbing power when needed.
Look for attachments made of nylon or other non-scratch materials so they won’t damage grout or tiles. Metal bristled brushes can be too abrasive.
Size of Water Tank
Check how large the steam cleaner’s water reservoir is. Larger tanks around 1 gallon allow longer continuous steam cleaning before having to refill.
If cleaning a large floor, you don’t want to have to stop every 10 minutes to refill the tank. Look for at least a 20 ounce tank size.
Heating Element Power
The wattage of the heating element determines how quickly the steam cleaner can generate steam and recover during use. More watts means faster heat-up and steam production.
For grout cleaning, look for models with at least a 1500 watt heating element for the most powerful steam output.
Length of Power Cord
Make sure the steam cleaner has at least a 15 to 20 foot long power cord. A longer power cord allows you to clean larger areas without having to change outlets as frequently.
A short cord that limits your reach can be frustrating and reduce cleaning efficiency. Check cord length in the product details.
How to Prepare Grout for Steam Cleaning
Proper preparation is key to achieving the best grout cleaning results with a steam cleaner. Here are some tips:
Sweep or Vacuum First
Remove any loose debris, dirt, or grime from the grout lines using a vacuum, broom, or dry mop. This allows the steam to penetrate directly into the pores of the grout rather than sitting on top of surface debris.
Remove Furniture and Mats
Clear the area by moving any furniture, rugs, bath mats or other items that are sitting directly on the tiled surface. This allows full access to the grout lines for cleaning.
Protect Delicate Surfaces
Cover or treat any surfaces around the grout that might be damaged by steam exposure. For example, use painters tape to cover wood trim or apply a heat protectant spray to delicate marbled tiles.
Wet Grout First
Lightly dampen the grout lines you plan to steam clean using a spray bottle. This helps the steam penetrate and clean more effectively. Do not saturate the grout, just mist it.
Give Grout Time to Dry
Allow freshly grouted surfaces to cure for 72 hours before steam cleaning. Steam can interact with grout that is not fully set. Follow all manufacturer instructions.
Ventilate the Space
Open windows or turn on exhaust fans in the room you are steam cleaning. Steam rapidly increases humidity in enclosed spaces which can cause issues.
Step-by-Step Guide to Steam Clean Grout
Follow these steps to use a steam cleaner effectively to clean dirty or stained grout:
Step 1: Assemble the Steam Cleaner
Attach any scrubbing accessories or brushes to the steam nozzle that will help agitate the grout lines. Connect the water reservoir and make sure it is full before turning on the steam cleaner.
Step 2: Allow Steam Cleaner to Heat Up
Turn on the steam cleaner and allow 5-10 minutes for it to reach full steam temperature before starting to clean. This preheat allows it work effectively.
Step 3: Start with Low Steam Setting
Begin on the lowest steam setting first to avoid damaging the grout. Hold the nozzle about 1 inch above the grout line, not directly on it.
Step 4: Work in Small Sections
Steam clean in approximately 3ft x 3ft sections for best results. Allow the steam to penetrate for 30 seconds before moving to an adjacent section.
Step 5: Wipe with Microfiber Cloth
Use a dry microfiber cloth to gently wipe up any loosened dirt or moisture from the grout lines as you work. Wiping improves results.
Step 6: Increase Steam if Needed
If gentle steam did not sufficiently clean the grout after 2 light passes, increase the steam level incrementally until the grout is clean. Do not exceed medium steam.
Step 7: Rinse with Cool Water
After the entire area has been steam cleaned, rinse the grout with cool clean water to remove any remaining residue. Allow the grout to fully dry.
Step 8: Seal Grout
Apply a penetrating grout sealer according to manufacturer’s directions to protect the grout and help prevent future stains.
Step 9: Clean Steam Accessories
Remove, rinse, and thoroughly dry any scrub pads or brushes used to prevent mold or mildew growth on them between uses.
Tips for Achieving the Best Results
Follow these tips and best practices when using a steam cleaner on grout:
- Work in manageable sections so steam has time to work before moving on. Overlap sections slightly as you work across a floor.
- Make repeated light passes rather than holding steam on one spot too long. Prolonged direct steam can damage some grout types.
- Wipe and remove any lifted dirt between passes for better results.
- Angle the steam cleaner nozzle to direct steam directly into grout lines rather than just generally across tiles.
- Add white vinegar or natural citrus-based cleaners to the steam for old, set-in stains. Avoid bleach.
- Allow grout to fully dry after steaming. Check for any “whitish” mineral deposits left behind and remove with vinegar if needed.
- Always do a test in an inconspicuous area first to check results and make sure the steam cleaner will not damage the grout.
- Rinse with clean water afterwards to remove any soap scum or cleaning product residue.
- Sealing your grout after deep cleaning helps keep stains from setting in again quickly.
- Replace any scrub accessories that become frayed or develop mildew odor. Bacteria can remain in pads.
- Wear gloves and safety glasses when handling a steam cleaner for protection. Steam can cause burns.
Common Questions About Using Steam Cleaners on Grout
Can I use vinegar in a steam cleaner for grout?
Yes, you can add a 50/50 mixture of white vinegar and water to the steam cleaner reservoir or chemical injection tank. The acetic acid in vinegar helps cut through mineral deposits and stains in grout. Never use colored vinegars which can stain.
How often should I steam clean my grout?
For high traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms, steam clean grout every 1-2 months ideally. Less used areas only need steam cleaning 1-2 times per year to keep the grout looking clean.
Can steam damage my grout?
Excessive high heat steam and scrubbing can damage some more delicate grout types like epoxy. Use the lowest steam setting first and do not concentrate steam on one spot too long. Test an inconspicuous area to check results.
Is steam cleaning better for grout than chemicals?
Steam is generally safer and better for porous grout than repeated chemical cleaning which can deteriorate grout over time. But very badly stained grout may also need chemical spot treatment in combination with steam.
How long does it take to steam clean grout?
Expect steam cleaning grout to take 10-15 minutes per 10 square feet. Working in small sections helps the steam work most effectively. Total time will depend on the room size.
Can I use steam to clean sanded caulk?
Yes, follow the same methods used on grout. Angle the steam nozzle directly into caulk lines to penetrate and lift stains. Be careful not to overheat soft caulk which can melt.
What is the best steam cleaner for grout?
Look for a machine with variable steam control, large water tank, accessories, and at least 1500 watts of heating power. Top brands for grout cleaning include Dupray, McCulloch, and Reliable.
Conclusion
Cleaning grout lines with a powerful steam cleaner is an efficient way to sanitize tile floors and remove built up stains and discoloration.
When selecting a steam cleaner for grout, choose one with adjustable steam levels, accessories, large water capacity, and sufficient heating element wattage to produce robust steam.
Always prepare grout properly before steaming by clearing the area, pre-wetting, and making sure newly grouted areas have cured. Work in manageable sections, making repeated light passes with the steam concentrated directly into the grout lines.
Following these best practices for using a steam cleaner on grout will restore dingy, unsightly grout back to like-new condition. Be sure to seal grout after deep cleaning for added protection.