Grout haze can be an unwelcome surprise after a tile installation. This cloudy film of grout residue clings to the surface of tiles, dulling their shine and stealing their beauty. Fortunately, grout haze isn’t permanent, and with the right product—like Athena’s Heavy Duty Tile Cleaner from Tile Armor—you can easily remove it and restore your tiles to their pristine condition. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to tackle grout haze on any type of tile using our Athena’s Heavy Duty Tile Cleaner.
What is Grout Haze?
Grout haze is a thin layer of grout residue left behind on the surface of tiles after grouting. It occurs when excess grout is not fully cleaned off during installation and the water used for wiping evaporates, leaving behind a film of cement particles, minerals, and other residues. This haze can appear on all tile types, including cement, ceramic, porcelain, natural stone, and glass, and can vary in intensity depending on the grout and tile type.
Why Choose Athena’s Heavy Duty Tile Cleaner?
Athena’s Heavy Duty Tile Cleaner is a versatile, powerful solution formulated to remove grout haze and other stubborn residues without damaging your tiles. It’s suitable for all tile types, even delicate ones, and ensures a deep clean, making it the ideal product for this task.
Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Grout Haze
Step 1: Prepare the Surface
- Remove Dust and Debris: Sweep or vacuum the area to remove loose particles.
- Protect Surrounding Surfaces: Cover any areas not intended for cleaning.
- Ensure Proper Curing: For new installations, confirm that grout and adhesive are fully cured before cleaning.
Step 2: Wet the Surface
Wet the tile surface with clean water to prepare it for cleaning. This step helps increase cleaner absorption and enhances its effectiveness.
Step 3: Dilute Athena’s Heavy Duty Tile Cleaner
Depending on the severity of the grout haze, dilute the cleaner as follows:
- Heavy-Duty Cleaning: Use undiluted or dilute 1:1 to 1:4 for tough stains.
- Grout Residue Removal: Dilute 1:1 to 1:3 for acid-sensitive materials.
- Wax/Sealer Removal: Dilute 1:1 for stripping treatments.
- Regular Maintenance: Dilute up to 1:9 for routine cleaning.
Step 4: Apply the Solution
- Evenly apply the diluted solution across the tile surface using a mop, sponge, spray bottle, or single-disc machine.
- Scrub with a non-abrasive sponge to activate the cleaner.
- Let the cleaner sit for 15-20 minutes, scrubbing occasionally..
- Ensure the surface stays wet throughout the entire time by adding more solution or water as needed.
Step 5: Rinse and Scrub
- After 15-20 minutes, add clean water to the surface and scrub with a melamine sponge to remove the loosened residue.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water to eliminate any remaining cleaner and haze.
Step 6: Dry and Inspect
- Use a wet vacuum to remove excess water, then allow the surface to air dry completely.
- Inspect the tiles to ensure the haze is gone. If necessary, repeat the process for any remaining residue.
Step 7: Reseal the Surface
After cleaning, the surface must be resealed to protect against future stains and moisture. Applying Zeus’ Tile Sealer or another recommended sealer helps maintain the cleanliness and durability of your tiles.
Step 8: Clean Tools
Immediately rinse all tools with water to prevent the cleaner from drying on them.
Tips for Best Results
- Always test Athena’s Heavy Duty Tile Cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire surface.
- Avoid letting the cleaner dry on the surface—keep it wet during the entire cleaning process.
- For best results, clean tiles section by section, especially in large areas.
Note:
Athena’s Heavy Duty Tile Cleaner is highly effective for removing grout haze, soap scum, and other residues but does not provide long-term protection. For additional protection, reseal the tiles after cleaning. To preserve the quality of your tiles, clean them regularly for maintenance and promptly clean up spills.
Final Thoughts
Grout haze doesn’t have to diminish the beauty of your tiles. With Athena’s Heavy Duty Tile Cleaner, you can easily restore your tiles to their original look, no matter the type. By following these steps, you’ll ensure your tiles look flawless and ready to impress. Don’t let grout haze dull your hard work—let Athena’s Heavy Duty Tile Cleaner make your tiles look their best!