How to Clean Grout

Grout, the porous material between tiles, can quickly accumulate dirt, mold, and stains, detracting from the beauty of your floors, walls, or backsplash. Cleaning grout can seem daunting, but with the right techniques and tools, you can restore it to its original color and shine. Here’s a detailed guide to effectively clean grout and maintain its cleanliness.


Why Does Grout Get Dirty?

  1. Porosity: Grout absorbs spills, dirt, and grease due to its porous nature.
  2. Moisture: Damp environments like bathrooms promote mold and mildew growth on grout.
  3. Neglect: Without regular cleaning, grout lines can accumulate grime and become discolored.

What You’ll Need

  • Baking soda
  • White vinegar
  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • Dish soap
  • Soft-bristle brush or grout brush
  • Toothbrush (for small or detailed areas)
  • Spray bottle
  • Sponge or microfiber cloth
  • Steam cleaner (optional for deep cleaning)

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Grout

1. Start with a Basic Cleaning

  • What You Need: Warm water and a soft brush.
  • How?
    1. Spray warm water onto the grout lines to loosen dirt.
    2. Scrub gently with a grout brush or toothbrush.
    3. Wipe clean with a damp cloth.

2. Baking Soda and Vinegar Method (For Tough Stains)

  • Why It Works: Baking soda lifts dirt, and vinegar dissolves grime and kills bacteria.
  • How?
    1. Make a paste using baking soda and water.
    2. Apply the paste to the grout lines.
    3. Spray white vinegar over the baking soda paste. It will fizz as it reacts.
    4. Scrub the grout with a brush after the fizzing stops.
    5. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and wipe clean.

3. Hydrogen Peroxide and Baking Soda (For Stubborn Stains)

  • Why It Works: Hydrogen peroxide is a natural bleaching agent that brightens discolored grout.
  • How?
    1. Mix hydrogen peroxide with baking soda to form a paste.
    2. Apply the paste to the grout and let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
    3. Scrub the grout with a brush.
    4. Rinse with warm water and dry with a cloth.

4. Dish Soap and Warm Water (For Greasy Grout)

  • Why It Works: Dish soap cuts through grease and grime effectively.
  • How?
    1. Mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water.
    2. Scrub the grout with a brush dipped in the soapy solution.
    3. Wipe clean with a damp cloth.

5. Steam Cleaning (For Deep Cleaning)

  • Why It Works: Steam penetrates grout pores, loosening dirt and killing bacteria without chemicals.
  • How?
    1. Use a steam cleaner with a grout cleaning attachment.
    2. Move the steam nozzle slowly along the grout lines.
    3. Wipe away loosened dirt with a microfiber cloth.

Maintenance Tips for Clean Grout

1. Seal Grout

  • Why? Sealing prevents moisture and dirt from penetrating the grout.
  • How? Apply a grout sealant every 6–12 months, depending on usage and exposure to moisture.

2. Regular Cleaning

  • Sweep and mop floors frequently to prevent dirt buildup.
  • Wipe down tiled walls or backsplashes weekly to remove grease and soap scum.

3. Address Spills Immediately

  • Clean up spills promptly to avoid staining the grout.

4. Use Rugs and Mats

  • Place mats or rugs in high-traffic areas to minimize dirt transfer to tiled floors.

When to Call a Professional

If your grout is severely stained, discolored, or has mold that won’t budge with cleaning, professional grout cleaning or regrouting services can restore it effectively.


By following these tips and techniques, you can keep your grout clean, bright, and free of stains, ensuring a fresh and polished look for your tiled surfaces.

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