Grout Sealant - Cleaning ceramic tile floors is not very difficult. For most jobs a simple damp mop will do the trick. However, the grout is another matter. It can be very difficult to remove stains from grout that has not been sealed properly. It's also difficult to clean the grout using regular sponge and cloth mops because the tiles are usually higher that the grout.

If your grout is fairly dirty, you’ll need a stronger solution than you use on the tiles. Lysol and similar cleaners can be used almost full strength for thorough cleaning of the grout. Remember that when you use such strong solutions, you will need to go over it again with plain water. And don't let the solution sit on the grout too long. It could be absorbed and cause permanent discoloration.

The best long term solution to keeping grout clean is to seal it. This will help prevent spills from being absorbed into the grout, and cleanup is much easier.

You can purchase grout sealer online or at your local home center. There are quite a few types available, so be sure to read the labels before purchase. Silicone based sealer is applied to the grout only. It provides a long life and is fairly easy to clean. There are also finisher/sealer types that are applied to the entire floor. There are different types that will enhance and highlight both the tiles and the grout, or you can get a clear finish.

To get the best results, you should use a bleach solution (1 cup bleach to a gallon of water), and an old toothbrush. Be sure to wear rubber gloves and protect your eyes. This is a fairly strong bleach solution and you don't want to splash it in your eyes or be in contact with it for long periods.

Make sure you clean the entire floor before you begin. Once you’ve thoroughly cleaned the grout with the bleach solution, you’ll need to either mop or use a cloth and go over it with clean water before applying sealer. The grout should be completely dry before you seal it.

Sealing grout is somewhat difficult and slow work, but the results are very rewarding. Like tires on a car, clean and sealed grout makes the whole floor look better. And the sealer will make furute cleanups much faster and easier.