Say hello to grout sealing – the low-effort upgrade with high-impact results.
What is grout sealing?
Grout sealing is exactly what it sounds like: applying a protective sealant over the grout lines in your bathroom. Once cured, this sealant acts as a barrier that repels moisture, soap residue, oils and grime. Basically, it stops gunk from settling in before it becomes a problem.
Why is grout so hard to clean?
It’s porous!
It has tiny holes that love to suck up dirt and moisture like a sponge. This makes grout an excellent hiding spot for dust, mud and other uninvited particles. Over time, this leads to discolouration, mould growth and stubborn stains that just won’t budge – no matter how much you scrub.
Kitchen
The location of many a culinary masterpiece is especially prone to grout drama. Spills and splatters, whether from spaghetti sauce or a rogue cup of coffee, can seep in and cause unsightly stains.
And the more foot traffic, the more dirt gets ground into the grout lines. Whether it’s the soil from outside or just everyday dust, the hustle and bustle in your home can turn your grout into a dirt magnet.
Bathrooms
- With their humid environments, bathrooms are perfect breeding grounds for mould and mildew – and your porous grout becomes a day spa for these unwanted guests.
- Residues from soaps and hard water can accumulate on grout surfaces, forming a film layer that gradually alters its appearance.
- Direct exposure to sunlight can lead to fading or a change in colour over time for grout.
Cleaning products
Sometimes, the products we use to clean our tiles might unintentionally contribute to grout grime. Harsh chemicals or improper cleaning techniques can strip away any sealant on the grout, making it more susceptible to dirt.
It’s getting old
- Over time, grout can wear down and lose its original lustre. As it ages, it becomes more prone to stains and discolouration.Regular maintenance and regular resealing can help prolong the life of your grout and keep it looking fresh.
- If you’ve opted for a light-coloured grout, dirt or stains become more noticeable. Darker grout may hide the dirt better, but it’s not immune!
The time saving magic of grout sealing
By sealing your grout, you’re making it resistant to water and stains:
- Less scrubbing required: most of the gunk that would normally stick just wipes away.
- No more deep-cleaning sessions: you don’t have to haul out the harsh chemicals nearly as often.
- Your bathroom stays looking fresh: sealed grout keeps its colour for longer.
How often?
If it’s a high-moisture area like a shower or bathroom floor, sealing every 6 to 12 months is a good rule of thumb. Some modern sealers even last longer.
What you can do:
- Establish a regular cleaning schedule using mild, pH-neutral cleaners to ward off the accumulation of dirt and contaminants.
- Make sure you have adequate ventilation in areas prone to high humidity, such as bathrooms and kitchens, to discourage mould and mildew.
- Quickly clean up any spills to prevent liquids from getting into grout lines.
- Use soft brushes or cloths for grout cleaning, avoiding abrasive tools that may harm its surface.
- Regularly examine grout for signs of discolouration or damage and address any issues quickly.
- Consider using window coverings or UV-blocking films to shield grout from direct exposure to sunlight.
- Professional cleaning and sealing can also help to delay dirt build-up!
Grout sealing is a small step that pays off in a big way. Less grime. Less mould. And way less elbow grease.
