Sealing Grout Lines In Restrooms

Restroom floors can be breeding grounds for mold, bacteria and ultimately odors if not properly cleaned. And if left unattended, build-up can collect in grout lines. Grout is very porous so urine is able to penetrate the surface and become embedded. This not only makes future cleaning and odor control more challenging, but can permanently discolor the grout and create a poor perception of clean.

Traditionally, the lighter the grout, the more challenging it is to keep clean. But properly sealing the floor can help. Make sure the floor is sealed from the first day. In older facilities or areas where the seal has worn out, clean and reseal floors. If that is not possible, conduct regular deep cleaning in the restroom.

Sealing the floor is not always the have-all-end-all, however. Some facilities have found success with regular grout cleaning or pressure washing, along with daily floor cleaning. It's also recommended to periodically machine wash the grout with a slow-speed machine and apply a grout block.