Using a tile and grout steam cleaner effectively involves applying heat and moisture while scrubbing the targeted areas.
Getting Started with Steam Cleaning Grout
To begin cleaning your tile and grout with a steam cleaner, follow these basic steps for effective results:
- Prepare the Area: Ensure the floor or wall surface is swept or vacuumed to remove loose debris.
- Fill the Cleaner: Add water to the steam cleaner reservoir according to the manufacturer's instructions. Allow the cleaner to heat up.
- Apply Steam: Turn on the steam with the recommended rate of spray, directing the nozzle or brush head onto the grout lines.
- Scrub Vigorously: Scrub the grout directly with vigorous back-and-forth strokes. The combination of high-temperature steam and mechanical action helps loosen dirt and grime embedded in the grout.
- Work in Sections: Work one small section at a time until it is clean, then move on to the next section. This prevents the loosened dirt from drying back onto the surface before it can be wiped away.
- Wipe Clean: After steaming and scrubbing a section, immediately wipe the area with a clean cloth or mop to remove the dirty water and residue.
Specific Techniques for Different Surfaces
The method might vary slightly depending on whether you are cleaning floors or walls.
- Cleaning Floors: Focus on the grout lines between tiles, using the steam and scrubbing brush. Work your way across the floor section by section, wiping clean as you go.
- Cleaning Walls: If you're cleaning walls, work from the top down so that all the dirty water runs down onto uncleaned areas. This helps maintain a cleaner work area as you progress and prevents streaks on already cleaned sections.
By following these steps and techniques, focusing on small areas, and ensuring thorough scrubbing, you can effectively clean tile and grout using a steam cleaner.
