Expert: Perry Vellenga - 3/29/2007

Question
I have a dark,colored grout between my glazed porcelain tile in my walk-in shower.  What foamy or spray-on type of tile cleaners are safe to use(that won't lighten grout color)?? I assume any of the products with bleach are a no-no(?) However, I would something safe, other than good old soap and water from a bucket!!
Kim86p

Answer
Thank you for your question Kim,

   Forgive my tardiness as I was stuck in the Mountains without a computer...

  I am not a fan of the "scrubbing bubbles" kind of cleansers as they typically will just leave a different kind of residue exchanging one for another. As you have noted bleach is not something that should ever be used other than in a washing machine. I am old school and like Baking Soda and a white scrub pad. If you desire more than that stop into your local Tile Supply Store and ask for soap scum remover and they will have a material specific formulated cleaner that won't affect your grout. While the Home Improvement Centers have similar products you are typically left to figure out which one will best serve your needs and if the attending "expert" can be found he may just be "subbing" in from the Garden Dept for the day...follow me? Ok Kim I hope this helps you with your needs, feel free to return anytime....

Perry V.