Cleaning dirty grout can be done with simple, common cleaners and a bit of elbow grease. Here are reliable methods and the steps to follow, along with tips for different grout types and stubborn stains. Direct answer
- Start with a baking soda paste and hydrogen peroxide for most grout. This duo brightens grout and lifts grime without harsh chemicals. Apply paste to the grout lines, spray or pour hydrogen peroxide over it, let sit, then scrub and rinse.
- For mold or mildew, a hydrogen peroxide-based spray or a vinegar-and-baking-soda approach can help, but avoid mixing vinegar with bleach. Let the solution sit, scrub, then rinse thoroughly.
- For very tough stains, consider an oxygen bleach (sodium percarbonate) product or a commercial grout cleaner designed for your grout type. Follow label instructions and use a stiff brush.
- After cleaning, seal the grout to reduce future staining and moisture ingress (especially in high-moisture areas like showers).
Step-by-step guide (general method)
- Gather supplies
- Baking soda
- Hydrogen peroxide (3% common household strength)
- Dish soap (optional, for extra grease-cutting power)
- A stiff-bristled brush or grout brush
- Spray bottle or squeeze bottle
- Clean towels or rags
- Optional: white vinegar (do not mix with bleach)
- Apply a cleaning paste
- Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to form a thick paste.
- Apply paste along the grout lines, covering discolored areas.
- Add a cleaning activator
- Lightly mist or pour hydrogen peroxide over the paste. It will fizz, helping to lift grime.
- If you prefer, mix a small amount of dish soap into the paste for extra grease removal.
- Let sit and scrub
- Let sit for 5–15 minutes (longer for stubborn stains), then scrub with a stiff brush, focusing on grout lines.
- Rinse and dry
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water. You may use a mop or spray bottle and a sponge.
- Dry the area with a towel to prevent new grime from forming during drying.
- Optional: repeat or seal
- For persistent staining, repeat the process once more.
- Once grout is clean and dry, apply a grout sealer as recommended for your grout type and tile.
Alternative approaches
- White vinegar and baking soda: If you prefer a natural approach, sprinkle baking soda on the grout, spray with white vinegar, let fizz, scrub, then rinse. Do not use vinegar on natural stone tiles (like marble) as it can etch some stones.
- Oxygen bleach products: For very stubborn grout, follow the product label. Mix with water as directed, apply to grout, wait, then scrub and rinse. Ensure good ventilation.
Tips and cautions
- Test a small inconspicuous area first to check for discoloration or damage.
- Do not mix ammonia with bleach. Do not mix vinegar with bleach.
- In bathrooms with ceramic or porcelain tiles, a stiff brush is usually effective; for delicate tiles, use a softer brush to avoid scratching.
- Sealing grout after cleaning helps prevent future staining and mildew growth; reseal every 1–2 years or as recommended for the grout type.
If you share your grout’s material (epoxy vs cement grout) and the location (kitchen, bathroom shower, etc.), and tell me what you’ve already tried, the advice can be tailored to your exact situation.
