How to Clean Your Tile Grout

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Tile grout can easily accumulate dirt and other unsightly stains on its surface. This not only diminishes the overall look of our tiles but also creates an environment for bacteria and allergens to thrive.

After experimenting with various grout cleaning solutions, I’ve discovered a few methods that thoroughly clean the grout lines. Here are the methods that I have tried that can actually clean your grout lines.

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Home Remedies for Cleaning Grout

Often, you will find that your grout can be cleaned with items you already have at home, in the kitchen or bathroom cabinet. Here’s the best home remedy to clean grout that works:

1. 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. If you have the presence of mold in your tile grout, this is a great way to remove it.

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. 

This DIY grout cleaner is simple, but it is the best home remedy to clean grout.

2. Baking Soda and Dish Soap

To help clean your tile grout, use baking soda and dawn dish soap to clean the grout if the tiled area is mildly stained. Apply it to the grout lines and let it sit for about 10 minutes.

Scrub it with a grout brush, toothbrush, or sponge. Once done, wash the surface with warm water. You will notice a cleaner surface.

3. Dish Soap and Water

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.

4. Vinegar

Add white vinegar to a spray bottle and small drops of dish soap to create a simple vinegar-cleaning solution for your grout. Spray the grout lines with the vinegar solution and let it sit for 10-15 minutes.

Scrub the area with a grout brush or toothbrush. Then, wipe away the cleaning solution with a damp cloth or paper towel. You will be delighted with the results of this natural cleaner. 

Commercial Grout Cleaners

While homemade grout cleaners are effective at removing dirt and grime from tile grout, a few commercial cleaners do a wonderful job of cleaning your grout. Here are a few that are worth checking out:

5. Grout-Eez Grout Cleaner

This heavy-duty commercial grout cleaner can quickly rejuvenate white grout 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, let it sit for 10 minutes, and allow it to work its magic. Use the grout scrubbing brush to finish removing the deep stains. Rinse away the residue when done.

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6. Zep Grout Cleaner & Brightener

The Zep grout cleaner has a remarkable ability to effectively clean and brighten tiles. It is a popular choice for cleaning grout because it is highly helpful 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 to help remove the dirt or blemishes, and follow through by thoroughly rinsing the area. 

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7. Clorox Plus Tilex Mold and Mildew Remover

If you notice mold and mildew appearing on your grout, the go-to solution is the Clorox Plus Tilex Mold and Mildew remover—an exceptionally potent cleaner meticulously formulated to combat stubborn stains and bacteria.

To eliminate mold from your grout, spray the solution onto the affected surface, allowing it to sit for approximately five minutes. Then, vigorously scrub and thoroughly rinse. It’s important to carefully read the instructions on the label regarding other surface types to prevent any potential damage.

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8. 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; 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.

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9. OxiClean 

Oxiclean is a multipurpose Stain Remover powder that is 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. 

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What exactly is grout?

Grout is used to fill the gaps and crevices between tiles or stones on a surface. It helps to hold the tiles or stones in place, preventing water from seeping through the surface.

Grout is a requirement when filling spaces between tiles. Grout creates a seamless tile appearance while helping to protect the tile from cracking and moisture from seeping through. 

How to maintain clean grout

• Regular cleaning – To maintain clean grout, you must clean it regularly to prevent dirt, mold, or mildew buildup.
• Refrain from harsh cleaners and opt for gentle cleaning products with a neutral pH balance.
• Seal it – Since grout is porous, it needs to be sealed every so often. Grout tends to soak up dirt and moisture easily. Sealing the grout will not only prevent it from fading but also from growing mold. This will allow your grout to continue looking good year after year. Use a grout sealer like this Black Diamond Stoneworks Grout Sealer for best results. 
• Have a grout pen handy – if you have colored grout, having a grout pen handy is perfect for coloring over your existing grout. Grout pens are usually waterproof and don’t create any form of mess. You can easily grab and go with grout pens to quickly touch up the grout if you notice visible fading to bring it back to its original color. This is a great way to keep the colored grout looking its best.

Dirty grout and tile floors can be a thing of the past, with the effective methods for deep cleaning outlined in this article. Whether you choose traditional methods, chemical-based cleaners, or natural alternatives, consistency and thorough cleaning are key.

By following the step-by-step guide and implementing preventive measures, you can achieve professional-level results and enjoy sparkling clean tile floors that will make your guests green with envy.

Other posts you might like:

• How to Seal a Granite Countertop
• How to Clean Mold in Shower and Safely Prevent It
• How to Clean a Glass Shower Door

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