How to Clean Tile Grout

Ever notice how you scrub and scrub your bathroom tile or the tile floor in your kitchen, but the grout still looks dingy? What works on the tile may not work to clean the grout. Here are a few suggestions for cleaning those stubborn grout stains.

In the bathroom, it helps to loosen the dirt trapped in the grout. Run a hot shower for about five minutes to allow the steam to work on the grout. Mix a solution of a tablespoon of bleach to a quart of water. Be sure to vent the area you are working in so that you do not become sick from the fumes. Also, wear household gloves to keep hands from coming in contact with the chemical cleansers. Using a toothbrush, immerse it in the solution and begin to scrub the grout. Continue to apply the bleach solution and scrub the grout until it is clean. Bleach should not be used on colored grout because it will discolor it. A grout cleanser can also be used in place of the bleach. After the grout is rinsed and dried, consider adding a grout sealer to resist future stains.

On tile flooring, use hot water to loosen the grout dirt. Use a grout brush to clean loosened dirt from the grout. Rinse the flooring. If dirt remains within the grout, a bleach cleaner can be used to remove the excess crud. The bleach will also whiten the grout.

Grout should be cleaned on a regular basis to avoid mold and mildew stains especially in bathroom tubs and showers. Rubbing over the grout as you clean the tiles is not good enough to stop the buildup of this nasty duo. Take the time to pay special attention to the grout. Applying a sealer once a year should reduce the elbow grease needed to keep it clean between applications.

When cleaning colored grout be sure to check your warranty specifics. You don’t want to void your warranty by using products that are advised against. Use a grout cleaner that is recommended for colored grout. If you are not sure what to use, try vinegar and water. Apply it to the grout and work it in with a soft bristled toothbrush. Rinse the surface thoroughly to remove all of the dirt. Dry the grout completely. Apply a coat or two of sealer to make cleaning easier the next time around.

When cleaning tile, you must remember the grout. Grout can collect dirt, mold, and mildew which will grow out of control if not removed. Taking the time to clean and seal your grout the right way will keep your tiles in the best shape possible.