Saltillo Tiles is a natural, sun-burned Mexican tile that has an uneven surface and gives a warm old world charm to many homes. Grouting is used between Saltillo tiles may become discolored with age and may be difficult to clean. If the mortar was not sealed or incorrectly sealed, it may even require a professional cleaner with high-temperature steam cleaners. However, before going to all the problems and expenses there is a way to clean the grout from the Saltillo tiles which often does the job quickly and economically.
Instructions
How to clean the Saltillo tile grout
1 mop your floor with mild soap and warm water to remove any dirt from the surface. Then clean the floor with running water to remove all soap residue. Allow to dry.
2 Place 1 cup of hydrogen peroxide in a microwave measuring cup and heat in microwave for 3 minutes or until boiling.
3 with a gripper (the measuring cup will be hot), pour the hot hydrogen peroxide directly onto the grout that needs cleaning. Wear gloves, goggles, and a breathing mask.
4 allow hydrogen peroxide to soak in the grout for 1 minute and then rub hard with a nylon cloth.
5 Mop with water and inspect. Depending on the severity of the stains (and if the grout was originally sealed) you may have to repeat the process.
Tips and warnings
- The hotter the hydrogen peroxide is when it is applied to the grout, the better. If you have a steam machine use a 50/50 solution of water and hydrogen peroxide in steam clean your grout.