How to Disinfect Tile and Grout When you first get your tiling work installed, it looks all shiny and new. Over time, the tiles, and the grout between tiles can start to get a grungy look. What’s more, germs can begin to accumulate making the site of your tiles and unhealthy place to be. Cleaning tiles and grout is one thing, but disinfecting is another. However, it is necessary, especially in times of a health crisis. And not only will disinfecting your tiles get rid of bacteria, it will also get rid of mold and mildew.

With that in mind, here is how to disinfect tile and grout. This helps keep them looking their best and minimize the chances of spreading disease.

Disinfect Ceramic and Porcelain

The methods you use to disinfect your tiles will vary according to the type of tiles that are in your home. Here are some tips for disinfecting ceramic and porcelain tiles.

Mix a gallon of water with a ½ cup of ammonia, a ½ cup of white vinegar and a ¼ cup Borax. Not only with this restore shine, it also has strong disinfecting properties that eliminate mold and mildew.
Pour the mixture into a spray bottle. Spray on walls and scrub with a clean sponge. Then wait 10 to 15 minutes for the chemicals to work. If you are disinfecting floors, use a mop to spread the mixture over tiles and let the chemicals soak in.
Rinse with cool water and allow tiles to air dry.

Marble, Granite and Limestone

If you have marble, granite or limestone tiles, here is the best way to disinfect these surfaces.

Pour a ½ cup bleach into a gallon of water. Bleach is very effective in killing germs but if you don’t like to use it for environmental reasons, you can substitute it with hydrogen peroxide.
Apply the bleach or peroxide solution to the tiling with a spray bottle or mop. If using on walls, scrub with a clean sponge and wait 10 to 15 minutes for the solution to soak in.
Rinse with cool water and allow area to air dry. Open windows to eliminate bleach fumes.

Additional Tips

To ensure the area is properly disinfected, scrub grout with a toothbrush.
Never mix bleach and ammonia. This will result in a highly toxic gas.
Never use vinegar to clean marble, granite, limestone or any other natural stone. It will end up etching the stone.

Now that you know how to properly disinfect your tiles and grout, you can feel confident that you are doing all you can to minimize the spread of sickness, mold and mildew while getting your rooms looking their best. We wish you the best of health during times of sickness and crisis. For more information or to schedule a consultation click here!