Removing grout from tile pores

[Carrie29]

I am tiling a shower with rialto porcellin ceramic tile. The clean up got behind the grouting and although I was able to get the haze off the surface, I cannot get the grout out of the little crevices and holes. I grouted about 24 hours ago. I tried a nylon scrub brush on my drill, but the bristles are too fat to get in the holes. What can I use and it time still of the essence or is that now irrelevant. Also, I am a noodle arm.
Carrie

[Sponsored Links]

[Davestone]

You're probably better of with a small sharp instrument to get the cleaning started, then use a stiff bristled acid brush,and water, at this point,before it gets totally set..then you'll have to use klenzall, and the stiff brush,after about 3 days setting time.

[Carrie29]

Thanks!
Now is that product available locally? My hardware store only had LikeNew by TEC it is Urea Hydrochloride. I bought it but at $17, I'll take it back if it won't help. Is the stiff bristle acid brush metal or nylon or what?
Carrie

[doitright]

Hi Carrie :)

The like new looks like a good product to start with. It may not be strong enough. We always recommend to TEST first. Have you tried vinegar and water (50/50)? You can go up to full strength if you prewet the grout joints (if needed). A gallon of white distilled vinegar is much less than $17.

As far as the brush, don't use anything metallic when working with acidic products. A nylon or natural bristle brush is fine.

[Carrie29]

Thank you very much. The LikeNew did in fact remove the grout. I've only done a bit and I was using a stainless steel brush which was working great, but I'll switch to nylon. Looks like a fun afternoon of scrubbing ahead.
Carrie

[doitright]

Hi Carrie :)

Since you were using the stainless steel brush, you may find it more effective than the nylon. As long as it's not rusting or discoloring in any way, you should be fine.

[Carrie29]

Oh I was hoping you would say that. The stainless brush is so much stiffer than the nylon that it does a far better job getting the grout out. The bristles seem to be holding up fine but what concerns me is the blackish metalic residue it leaves after scrubbing. This residue seems to wash away fine but I'm worried that I may look up one day and find that it has stained a grout line or tile. Is my instinct correct that the acidic wash is handling this residue or am I nearing trouble?
thanks again,
Carrie