If you are going to install tiles in almost any area of the home, Grout will be part of the process. Grout is used to fill gaps between tiles, reinforce them and keep moisture out. Since it extends over the top of the tiles as it is pushed to the joints, it is important to clean it properly. Grout starts curing in 3 days and is cured after 3 weeks.
Instructions
1 Wet a grout sponge by dipping it in a bucket of water and drain excess so that the sponge is moist but not dripping. A grout sponge is specially designed with rounded corners. Use these corners to help clean the grout from above the tiles without disturbing the grout inside the joints.
2 Clean the top of the tiles with the grout sponge. Make a pass with the sponge on each side before rinsing well with water. If the sponge is cleaned over and over again without rinsing, simply redistribute the grout. Clean the tiles to the edges, and use the corners of the sponge to carefully shape the joints.
3 Clean the tile surface with a lint-free cloth until it dries. Keep a replacement tile up to the newly washed tiles to compare. If there is surplus mortar on the tile installed, it will appear cloudy or color-off. Repeat cleaning with sponge moistened with fresh water and a dry towel again until all traces of grout are gone.
Tips and warnings
- Grout can be removed in this method up to three days after installation. After that, you can scrape it off with a green scourer and lots of fresh water. Beyond three weeks, the grout will cure and not get out of the tiles.
- Do not use a dripping sponge when cleaning fresh grout. Excess water may wash grout or weaken gaskets.