The grout between your tiles can accumulate dirt and other unsightly stains on its surfaces. Not only does this diminish the overall appearance of your tiles, but it also creates an environment for bacteria and allergens to thrive.
Fortunately, there are a few ways to clean your tile grout effectively. From natural remedies to commercial cleaning products, there are options for every preference and budget.
Vinegar, Baking Soda, and Lemon
Combining vinegar, lemon or lime juice, and baking soda creates the perfect cleaning solution for your grout. To create this homemade grout cleaner, blend the juice from the lemon with a modest pour of white vinegar and then sprinkle in some baking soda.
Dip the grout brush or toothbrush into the DIY grout cleaner and diligently scrub the stained grout lines. Then, wipe away the cleaning solution with a damp cloth or paper towel. You will be delighted with the results of this natural cleaner.
Dish Soap
Use water and dawn dish soap to clean the grout if the tiled area is mildly stained. Gently apply it to the affected areas using a soft microfiber cloth.
To get into the small crevices of the grout lines, you can opt for an old toothbrush or a grout cleaning brush, then wash the surface with hot water.
Hydrogen Peroxide and Baking Soda
Baking soda and hydrogen peroxide are non-toxic products known for removing mold. Baking soda attacks mold by absorbing moisture and destroying it, while hydrogen peroxide has a mild bleaching ability that is naturally antifungal and antibacterial.
The combination of baking soda and peroxide creates a transformative paste, making it a reliable ally in the battle against dirt and stains that plague tiles and grout.
Create a paste of 3/4-cup baking soda, 1/4-cup hydrogen peroxide, and a tablespoon of mild dish soap. Apply the thick paste to the grout with a grout brush and scrub the grout.
How to Clean Shower Doors with Vinegar
OxiClean
Oxiclean is a multipurpose stain remover powder activated when added to warm or hot water. Once added to water, Oxygen is released and targets any build-up stains, removing many tough stains in the home.
Oxiclean is an excellent solution for deep cleaning discolored grout. This product takes the heavy lifting out of deep cleaning tile floors, helping to loosen up dirt and grime. OxiClean is environmentally friendly and safe to use. It will clean tiles, sanitize, and remove stains without harming the grout.
Toilet Bowl Cleaner
If you notice mold and mildew appearing on your grout, the go-to solution is toilet bowl cleaner. Toilet bowl cleaners are not just for toilet bowls as they are formulated to combat stubborn stains and bacteria. Toilet bowl cleaner will cling to the mold and dismantle it almost immediately.
To eliminate mold from your grout, start by tracing the grout line with the cleaner and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, wash it away.
6 Effective Ways to Clean Mold from Shower Caulk and Grout
Zep Grout Cleaner & Brightener
The Zep grout cleaner can clean and brighten tiles. It is a popular choice for cleaning grout and is highly useful in removing stubborn grout stains.
With its bleach-free acidic formula, this convenient spray provides a hassle-free solution for grout cleaning. Even if your grout is marred with stubborn, long-standing stains, you won’t have to scrub excessively to achieve a revitalized look.
All you have to do is apply the cleaner to the grout and allow it to penetrate it for 3-5 minutes. Use a grout brush or sponge to help remove the dirt or blemishes, and follow through with rinsing the area.
Grout-Eez Grout Cleaner
This heavy-duty commercial grout cleaner can quickly rejuvenate white or black grout, eliminating the presence of grease, grime, and dirt.
One notable feature of this cleaner is its low-odor formulation, ensuring a pleasant cleaning experience free from overpowering fumes. It is suitable for ceramic and porcelain tiles, offering versatile cleaning capabilities.
To use it, squeeze it onto the grout and let it sit for 10 minutes. Use the grout scrubbing brush to finish removing the deep stains. Rinse away the residue when done.
Tamara White is the creator and founder of The Thrifty Apartment, a home decor and DIY blog that focuses on affordable and budget-friendly home decorating ideas and projects. Tamara documents her home improvement journey, love of thrifting, tips for space optimization, and creating beautiful spaces.
