How to Clean Saltillo Tile Grout
Saltillo tile is a natural sun-baked tile from Mexico that has an uneven surface and gives a warm old-world charm to many homes. The grout used between Saltillo tiles can become discolored with age and can be difficult to clean. If the grout was not sealed or was improperly sealed previously, it might even require a professional cleaner with high-pressure high-temperature steam cleaners. However, before going to all that trouble and expense there is a way of cleaning the grout of your Saltillo tiles that often gets the job done quickly and inexpensively. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Mild soap
- Mop
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Microwave-safe measuring cup
- Pot holder
- Stiff nylon brush
- Gloves
- Eye protection
- Breathing mask
Instructions
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How to Clean Saltillo Tile Grout
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1
Mop your floor with a mild soap and warm water solution to remove any surface dirt. Then mop your floor with plain water to remove all soap residue. Allow to dry.
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2
Put 1 cup of hydrogen peroxide in a microwave-safe measuring cup and heat it on high in your microwave for 3 minutes or until it boils.
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3
Using a pot holder (the measuring cup will be hot), pour the hot hydrogen peroxide directly on the grout that needs cleaning. Wear gloves, eye protection and a breathing mask.
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4
Allow the hot hydrogen peroxide to soak into the grout for 1 minute and then scrub hard with a stiff nylon brush.
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5
Mop with plain water and inspect. Depending on the severity of the stains (and whether the grout was originally sealed) you may need to repeat the process.
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1
Tips & Warnings
The hotter the hydrogen peroxide is when applied to the grout, the better. If you have a steam machine use a 50/50 solution of water and hydrogen peroxide to steam clean your grout.
