Blackened floor joints/expansion gaps: 3 methods to clean them without too much effort

Blackened floor joints are one of the most difficult elements to deal with when it comes to cleaning.

These days, it is possible to choose the color of the material used in the joints (also called "expansion gaps"), according to your tastes. But those who live in houses with older floors that originally had white joints, know how quickly they can turn black due to the accumulation of dirt and how tiring it is to clean them.

There are, however, various remedies and methods - natural and otherwise - that can help the operation making it easier and more effective. Some of these are shown below:

Carpetrplus/Reddit

• Degreaser: a first remedy for whitening blackened expansion gaps is the use of any type of universal degreaser available on the market. This method involves the use of the product and a brush with stiff bristles, an old toothbrush or an abrasive sponge. Spray the degreaser on the areas to be treated, leave it to act for a few minutes and then scrub vigorously to remove the dirt. When you see that the black has gone, rinse off by mopping the floor several times until the dirt and detergent residue are completely eliminated. This is a fairly effective method, even if, when dealing with chemical products, it is necessary to be careful with the quantities and rinse everything thoroughly to avoid incurring the risk of getting toxic burns etc.

So why not use natural products that can guarantee the same results? In this case, the most popular and useful ones are vinegar and baking soda.

• Vinegar: dilute white vinegar in hot water, transfer to a spray bottle and spray abundantly on the expansion gaps to be whitened. Let it act for about ten minutes and then scrub with a brush or an abrasive sponge. Immediately afterwards, rinse off. The properties of the vinegar together with those of the hot water will help loosen the dirt and eliminate the blackening.
• Bicarbonate: for an even more intensive and whitening action, you can use bicarbonate. Mix it together with water in proportions that yield a compound with the consistency of a gel. Spread the gel on the gaps, scrub with a brush and leave on for 10/15 minutes. Remove with a damp cloth and then wash the floor again. You will find the result to be incredible.

What method do you think might be right for you?