How To Clean Dirty Grout Like A Pro

Dirty grout can make an otherwise spotless tiled area look neglected and aged. Clean grout, on the other hand, brightens up your space, making tiles look fresh and pristine. The challenge, however, is that grout is porous and absorbs dirt, grime, and stains over time, making it tough to clean. In this guide, we’ll cover professional tips and techniques to tackle even the dirtiest grout, using both DIY and commercial methods.

1. Understanding Grout and Why It Gets Dirty

What is Grout? Grout is a dense fluid used to fill the gaps between tiles, securing them in place and creating a waterproof barrier. Unlike tiles, grout is porous and can absorb dirt, mold, and mildew over time.

Common Causes of Dirty Grout:

1. Foot Traffic: High-traffic areas, like kitchens and bathrooms, accumulate more dirt and grime.
2. Moisture and Humidity: Bathrooms and shower areas are particularly vulnerable to mold and mildew buildup due to moisture.
3. Soap Scum and Hard Water: In shower areas, soap residue and minerals from hard water can lead to buildup on grout.

Types of Grout Stains:

• Surface Stains: These are typically caused by dirt, grease, or soap scum that can be cleaned with a mild scrub.
• Deep-Set Stains: Stains that have seeped into grout pores require more intensive cleaning or bleaching.
• Discoloration Over Time: Grout naturally darkens over time due to age and wear. This can sometimes only be fixed by resealing or recoloring.

2. Preparation Before Cleaning Grout

Before you begin grout cleaning, it’s essential to gather the right materials and take safety precautions.

Gather Materials:

• Grout brush or an old toothbrush
• Cleaning solutions (baking soda, vinegar, hydrogen peroxide)
• Gloves and mask
• Sponges or microfiber cloths
• Commercial grout cleaner (optional)
• Steam cleaner (optional)

Safety Precautions: Grout cleaning can involve chemicals, so it’s crucial to ventilate the area, wear gloves, and avoid inhaling fumes. Use a mask if you’re working in a poorly ventilated space.

Testing a Small Area First: Always test a small, inconspicuous area before applying any cleaner to ensure it doesn’t damage or discolor the grout.

3. Step-by-Step Professional Cleaning Techniques

Each cleaning method targets different types of grout stains, so you may need to try more than one.

3.1 Basic Cleaning with Baking Soda and Vinegar

Baking soda and vinegar are common household items that, when combined, make an effective grout cleaner.

Why This Works: Baking soda is mildly abrasive, perfect for scrubbing away surface grime, while vinegar’s acidity dissolves mineral deposits.

Steps:

1. Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to create a paste.
2. Apply the paste to grout lines, focusing on particularly dirty areas.
3. Spray vinegar over the baking soda paste and let it bubble for a few minutes.
4. Use a grout brush to scrub in small circular motions.
5. Rinse the area with warm water and wipe it dry.

When to Use: This method works best on light to moderate stains. For stubborn stains, move on to hydrogen peroxide.

3.2 Using Hydrogen Peroxide and Baking Soda for Stubborn Stains

Hydrogen peroxide is a natural bleach and disinfectant, making it perfect for deep stains and sanitizing grout.

Why This Works: The combination of baking soda’s abrasiveness and hydrogen peroxide’s bleaching action can lift stubborn stains.

Steps:

1. Mix baking soda with hydrogen peroxide to create a thick paste.
2. Apply the paste to the grout lines, covering all stained areas.
3. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes.
4. Use a grout brush to scrub and rinse with warm water.

Caution: Hydrogen peroxide can slightly bleach grout, so it’s best to test on a small area.

3.3 Heavy-Duty Cleaning with Commercial Grout Cleaners

If DIY methods aren’t cutting it, commercial grout cleaners can tackle severe stains and grime.

Choosing the Right Product: Look for non-toxic, eco-friendly cleaners if possible. Always read the instructions carefully.

Steps:

1. Apply the commercial cleaner as directed on the packaging.
2. Let it sit for the recommended time, usually between 5–10 minutes.
3. Scrub the grout lines and rinse thoroughly.

When to Use: This method is ideal for tackling deeply embedded stains that DIY methods can’t reach.

3.4 Steam Cleaning for Deep Cleaning Without Chemicals

Steam cleaning is an excellent chemical-free option that effectively cleans grout.

Benefits of Steam Cleaning: Steam penetrates the grout’s pores, loosening dirt and killing bacteria without any need for chemicals.

Steps:

1. Use a steam cleaner with a grout cleaning attachment.
2. Run the steamer slowly over the grout lines, wiping away the loosened dirt with a microfiber cloth.

Considerations: A steam cleaner can be an investment, but it’s worthwhile if you have a lot of tiled areas to clean.

3.5 Professional Services for Extremely Dirty Grout

When to Call a Pro
For grout that remains stained after cleaning, or if it’s crumbling and worn, consider professional help. Professionals use tools like high-powered steamers and specialized cleaning solutions to restore grout.

Types of Services Offered

• Grout resealing: Refreshes and protects grout.
• Grout recoloring: Revives the look of badly stained or unevenly colored grout.

Sealing Grout to Keep It Clean Longer

Why Sealing Is Important
Grout sealer fills grout pores, making it less susceptible to absorbing dirt, grime, and moisture. Sealed grout stays clean longer and is easier to maintain.

How to Apply Grout Sealer

1. Ensure the grout is fully dry after cleaning.
2. Apply the sealer using a small brush or applicator tool.
3. Allow the sealer to penetrate for the recommended time, then wipe away excess.
4. Let the sealer cure as instructed (usually 24–48 hours) before using the area.

Frequency of Resealing
For high-moisture areas, reseal grout every 1–2 years.

Maintenance Tips for Clean Grout

Regular Cleaning Routine
Keep grout clean by wiping down tiles and grout lines weekly with a mild cleaner. Avoid overly acidic or abrasive cleaners that could damage grout over time.

Quick Tips

• Use a squeegee in showers to reduce water spots and mildew.
• Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach, which can wear down grout.
• Ventilate bathrooms to prevent mold and mildew.

DIY Grout Cleaner Spray Recipe Create a homemade grout spray for everyday maintenance:

• Mix 1 cup of water, 1 cup of white vinegar, and 10 drops of tea tree essential oil.
• Spray on grout, let sit for a few minutes, and wipe clean.

Troubleshooting Common Grout Issues

Grout is Crumbling or Damaged
If your grout is breaking down, it may need to be removed and reapplied. Crumbling grout allows water to seep behind tiles, which can cause damage to the tile backing and walls.

Persistent Mold Issues
If mold is a constant issue, increase bathroom ventilation and consider adding a dehumidifier.

Grout Discoloration
If grout remains discolored despite cleaning, consider using a grout colorant or regrouting the area.

Conclusion

With these professional cleaning techniques, you can refresh your grout and restore the sparkle to your tiled areas. Regular maintenance and sealing are key to keeping grout looking great. By following these methods, you’ll enjoy a cleaner, more polished space that looks like it’s been treated by a pro. Give these methods a try, and feel free to share your results or favorite grout cleaning tips!