How to Clean Tile Grout - Kitchen Cabinets

Grout serves an important purpose in tile installations by filling the spaces between tiles to create a waterproof seal. Over time, grout can become discolored and dirty from mold, mildew, and regular use. Learning how to properly clean tile grout will help keep your tile floors, walls, countertops, and showers looking like new.

Why Grout Gets Dirty

Grout is porous, meaning it absorbs liquids and particles like dirt and grime. Common causes of dirty grout include:

Mold and mildew growth in damp areas like bathrooms.
Spills and dirt building up in the kitchen.
Grease and soap scum accumulating in busy areas.
Discoloration from use over time.

Dirty grout is not just an aesthetic issue. Mold and mildew growth can worsen indoor air quality and create health hazards if left untreated. Keeping grout clean is important for sanitary and aesthetic reasons in any room.

Options for Cleaning Grout

There are several effective methods and cleaning solutions for restoring dingy, stained grout lines:

Grout Brush and Grout Cleaner

Using a specialized grout brush and grout cleaner is often the go-to method for cleaning floor tile grout. Grout cleaners contain ingredients like bleach, ammonia, or acids that work to break down residue. Always check that the formula is safe for your particular grout color.

Here’s how to clean tile grout with this method:

Sweep or vacuum floor to remove loose debris.
Apply grout cleaner directly onto grout lines. Allow it to penetrate for 5-10 minutes.
Scrub grout lines vigorously with a stiff grout brush.
Wipe away the dirty solution with a damp cloth.
Rinse thoroughly and allow floor to fully dry.

Repeat as needed for heavily soiled grout. This works best for floor tile rather than wall tile cleaning.

Baking Soda and Vinegar

For a non-toxic grout cleaner, try baking soda and vinegar. The combination of the base and acid react to create a fizzing foam that breaks up grime:

Make a paste with baking soda and just enough water to form a thick solution. Spread onto grout lines.
Spray or pour undiluted white vinegar directly onto the grout.
Allow fizzing reaction to work for 5-10 minutes.
Scrub with a stiff brush. Wipe away foamy solution with a damp cloth.
Rinse thoroughly and air dry.

Vinegar may help whiten discolored grout. Baking soda also naturally deodorizes.

Hydrogen Peroxide and Baking Soda

Another effective homemade cleaner is hydrogen peroxide and baking soda. For extra cleaning power, also add a dash of dish soap. Follow these steps:

Make a paste with baking soda and just enough hydrogen peroxide to form a thick solution.
If desired, add a drop or two of dish soap and mix again.
Use an old toothbrush to spread the paste onto the grout lines. Let sit for 10-15 minutes.
Scrub and rinse away completely with water.

Hydrogen peroxide whitens and disinfects while the baking soda scrubs away dirt.

Steam Cleaner

A steam cleaner uses the power of hot vapor to deep clean grout. The heat helps loosen and lift away built-up gunk. Follow these tips when using a steam cleaner on tile grout:

Vacuum or sweep floor first to remove loose debris.
Fill steam cleaner reservoir with distilled water to prevent mineral buildup.
Attach appropriate attachments for tight spaces.
Work slowly and methodically, holding nozzle close to grout lines.
Wipe with dry cloth and let floor dry completely.

Repeat cleaning passes may be needed for badly soiled grout.

Power Washer

Using a power washer is an efficient way to clean large tile floors. The strong spray can blast away dirt from grout when used properly:

Sweep or vacuum loose debris first.
Test power washer on an inconspicuous spot to gauge pressure level needed.
Use a wide-fan tip and keep nozzle at least 6 inches above grout. Closer contact can damage grout.
Work in manageable sections, spraying grout lines and rinsing debris.
Let floor dry fully before allowing foot traffic.

Avoid using too much pressure with delicate tile. Wear protective gear to prevent spray back.

Tips for Cleaning Tile Grout by Location

Certain rooms and types of tile require some special considerations when cleaning grout:

Kitchen Floor Tile Grout

Kitchen floors see all kinds of spills and tracked-in dirt. Use a grout brush and oxygen bleach cleaner for the best results. Stay on top of maintenance by spot cleaning spills right away.

Shower Tile Grout

Mold and mildew grow easily in the warm, humid environment of showers. Use a grout brush with a tile and grout cleaner containing bleach. Let the cleaner sit for 10-15 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.

Open windows or run ventilation fans when using strong chemicals in bathrooms. Consider applying a grout sealer to help protect shower grout.

Outdoor Tile Grout

Outdoor grout withstands the elements, so stronger methods like pressure washing may be required. Make sure to use proper pressure and technique to avoid damaging grout when cleaning patio or pool surround tiles.

White Grout

Whitish grout shows more discoloration over time. Use a cleaner with a bleaching agent and baking soda paste as needed to help whiten dingy white grout back to its original color. Be careful with bleach on colored grout.

Saltillo Tile Grout

The terra cotta clay used in Saltillo tiles is porous and prone to staining. Use a pH-neutral cleaner and avoid acidic products. A gentle approach prevents eating away the clay. Seal Saltillo grout after cleaning for added protection.

Supplies for Cleaning Grout

Having the right cleaning tools and materials on hand makes the job much easier. Useful supplies include:

Grout brushes – Stiff bristles reach into grout lines. Use different sizes for floors and walls.
Grout haze remover – Removes film left behind after grouting.
Sponges – Soft sponges help wipe up cleaning solutions.
Old toothbrushes – Helpful for scrubbing grout in corners and tight spaces.
Spray bottles – Store and apply homemade cleaners.
Microfiber cloths – Slight abrasion helps wipe away dirt from grout.
Terry cloth rags – Good for buffing and drying tile after cleaning grout.
Buckets – Useful for mixing up cleaning solutions and rinsing tools.
Rubber gloves – Protect hands from harsh cleaning agents.
Knee pads – Cushion knees when scrubbing floor grout.
Scrub pads – Help provide extra scrubbing power for tough stains.
Grout sealer – Seal grout lines after cleaning to help prevent future stains.

Preventing Dirty Grout

Regular maintenance and prompt cleaning can help prevent grout from becoming badly discolored and dirty. Consider these proactive care tips:

Vacuum or sweep floors often to remove loose dirt before it settles into the grout.
Immediately wipe up spills and splatters on tile countertops and floors.
Run range hood vents when cooking to reduce smoke and grease exposure.
Use floor mats at entrances to reduce tracked-in dirt and improve traction.
Apply a penetrating sealant every 1-2 years to protect grout from stains and damage.
Keep bathrooms well-ventilated after showering to reduce moisture and mildew growth.
Re-apply grout caulk and sealants around sinks, tubs, and showers as needed to prevent leaks.

With proper cleaning techniques and preventative care, you can keep your tile grout looking like new for years to come. Just be sure to use the appropriate solutions and methods for your specific tile and grout type. Consistent maintenance makes removing grime easier and extends the life of your tiled floors and walls.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Tile Grout

Cleaning tile grout may seem tricky, but becomes much easier with the right information. Here are answers to some of the most common questions people have about keeping grout looking its best:

What is the easiest way to clean tile grout?

For floor tile, using a stiff-bristled grout brush and a quality grout cleaner is often the quickest and most effective method. Be sure to check that the cleaner is formulated for your grout color. Let it soak in for 5-10 minutes before scrubbing. Vinegar, baking soda, and hydrogen peroxide also work well for gentle cleaning.

How do you get old, stained grout looking new again?

Badly stained or discolored grout is difficult to fully restore. Re-grouting may ultimately be needed, but try these steps first:

Scrub with baking soda paste.
Apply thickened hydrogen peroxide and let sit overnight, then scrub.
Use a steam cleaner to deep clean.
Hire a professional grout cleaning service.

Should I seal my grout?

Sealing is highly recommended for all tile installations to prevent staining and damage to grout lines. Both epoxy and penatrating sealants can protect grout. Reapply every 1-2 years.

How do I get the haze off of new grout?

Grout haze removers or whitening cleaners are made for removing the film leftover from grouting. Scrub using a soft brush or pad. Buff dry with a cloth. Avoid abrasive pads on polished stone tiles.

Is it okay to use bleach on colored grout?

Only use bleach cleaners formulated for colored grout. Others may contain harsher acids or alkaline that can strip or alter grout color. Test in an inconspicuous spot first.

What is the best homemade grout cleaner recipe?

A mix of baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and a drop of dish soap makes an effective and affordable homemade cleaner. The baking soda scrubs while the peroxide whitens and disinfects.

How do I get mildew off of grout in my shower?

Use a cleaner containing bleach or oxygen bleach and allow it to soak into the grout lines for 10-15 minutes before scrubbing. Improve bathroom ventilation and apply a sealer to help prevent recurring mildew and mold.

Can I pressure wash my outdoor tile?

Yes, power washing is an effective way to clean patio and pool surround tile and grout. Use caution not to damage grout with excessive pressure. Stay at least 6 inches away from the surface.

How often should I clean my grout?

Regular grout cleaning is the key to preventing major buildup. Spot clean spills right away. Weekly sweeping, mopping, or vacuuming floors keeps them looking their best. Do a deep clean every 1-3 months using brushes and cleaners.

Conclusion

Cleaning and maintaining your tile grout does not need to be an arduous chore. By using the right methods and materials for the type of tile and area, you can safely restore dirty, stained grout lines. Be sure to properly prep the space, allow time for cleaning solutions to work, and rinse thoroughly after scrubbing.

Protect your investment in beautiful tile by applying a quality penetrating grout sealer on a regular basis. Combine sealing with prompt and gentle cleaning when spills happen to keep grout free of stains. With some occasional elbow grease, your grout can look fresh for many years to come.