Start by removing as much dried thinset as possible before grouting so the grout will bond and the floor will look finished.

Begin by assessing the surface with good light and a magnifying inspection if needed so you can see thinset left in the grout joints and on the tile faces. Use a sharp single edge razor scraper held at a low angle to the tile face and glide it across the dried thinset in small controlled strokes so you shave the thinset off instead of gouging the tile glaze. For thinset packed into joints, use a thin metal or carbide grout saw and work along the joint with short pulls, keeping the tool nearly parallel to the tile face to avoid chipping the edges. After mechanical removal, vacuum the debris thoroughly using a brush attachment and then wipe with a damp microfiber cloth to remove the fine dust; repeat until the cloth comes away clean. If residue remains, mix a manufacturer recommended diluted acidic cleaner such as phosphoric based product for cementitious thinset following label directions, apply briefly, agitate with a stiff nylon brush across the tile surface only and rinse completely with clean water to neutralize the cleaner. Always test any chemical on an inconspicuous tile first, wear gloves and eye protection, and allow full drying time before applying grout so you do not trap moisture.

Common problems include gouging or chipping tile edges from aggressive scraping so keep the blade nearly flat and make many light passes rather than one deep pass, and consider taping the edge for extra protection. Second, leaving fine dust in joints will prevent proper grout adhesion so follow scraping with thorough vacuuming and multiple damp microfiber wipes until dust is gone. Third, overusing acidic cleaners or leaving them on too long can etch sensitive tiles, so identify your tile type, spot test, use the mildest product that works, and rinse immediately after the residue loosens.

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