Dirt and grime can leave grout lines looking a bit lackluster. Grout stains are not only unsightly, but they can also be difficult to clean—until now. Re-Bath has compiled the top methods for cleaning bathroom grout, a few of which require nothing more than grout cleaner tool and household cleaners you probably have in the pantry.
Why Does Grout Stain So Easily?
Grout is a mixture of cement and other materials combined to create a dense, water-resistant substance used to fill voids and cracks in natural or synthetic materials—like stone or ceramic bathroom tiles. Yet because grout is porous, it’s prone to absorbing water and dirt, especially in humid spaces like bathrooms.
Also, because grout sits slightly lower than surrounding materials, it is more likely to collect moisture and debris. When you wipe the surface of a tile wall surround, bathroom floor, or backsplash, you may miss dirt that has collected in the grout.
Now, let’s tackle that grimy grout with these simple yet effective cleaning methods.
How to Clean Shower Grout: Prep is the First Step
Prepping grout is the first step in the cleaning process. Wipe down the tile surface with a clean, damp cloth. Remove any visible dirt, grime, and dust. Next, gather your supplies. (We’ve provided a list of what you’ll need under each grout cleaning method.)
Always treat one section of tile at a time, to prevent products from sitting on grout too long. We also recommend wearing safety goggles and mixing solutions in a well-ventilated area for your safety.
1. How to Clean Grout With DIY Solution
There are several homemade grout cleaning solutions for cleaning grout. We like the combination of baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and dish soap. It’s not only natural and gentle on surfaces, but it’s also more cost-effective than commercial cleaners and professional grout cleaning services.
Supplies:
- Bucket
- Baking soda
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Dish soap
- Spoon
- Grout cleaning brush
- Cleaning cloths or towels
Steps:
- Mix cleaning solution. Combine ½ cup baking soda, ¼ cup hydrogen peroxide, and 1tsp. dish soap.
- Use a spoon to spread the solution along grout lines.
- Let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Use grout brush to scrub grout lines to dislodge stubborn dirt and debris.
- Wipe clean with a damp cloth and dry with a clean towel.
2. Clean Grout With Steam
Steam cleaning works to penetrate grout and loosen old stains and dirt build-up. This method requires a grout steam cleaner tool/attachment and distilled water. Steam-cleaning is best for in-tact, undamaged grout. If your grout is chipping, the heat and pressure can make it worse.
Supplies:
- Steam cleaner
- Distilled water
- Grout cleaning brush
- Cleaning cloths or towels
Steps:
- Once you have prepped the tile surface, fill the steam clean with water and allow to heat according to manufacturer’s instructions.
- Gently apply steam to grout lines, following up with a grout brush to dislodging loose dirt.
- Dry surface with a clean towel.
3. Commercial Grout Cleaners
A wide range of inexpensive commercial grout cleaners are available to make quick work of dirt, mold, and mildew on bathroom surfaces. Here are a few of the best grout cleaners according to consumer reviews.
- Grout-Eez Professional Strength Tile and Grout Cleaner
- Stardrops The Pink Stuff
- Zep Grout Cleaner and Brightener
- Black Diamond Ultimate Grout Cleaner
- HyDrOxi Pro Grout Smart Cleaner
Note: Always check to make sure a commercial product can be used on your grout, follow the package instructions, and avoid combining with other cleaners. You can find an extensive list of Re-Bath-approved cleaning products for every surface in your bathroom here.
4. Bleach and Water Solution for Dirty Grout
This method helps to remove stains and lighten and brighten tired grout. We suggest more gentle methods and commercial grout cleaners before moving on to bleach, as bleach is a bit more harsh than the hydrogen peroxide solution.
Supplies:
- Bucket
- Hot water
- Oxygen bleach powder
- Grout cleaning brush
- Cleaning cloths or towels
Steps:
- Dissolve oxygen bleach powder in hot water according to the ratio recommended by the manufacturer.
- Pour the solution along grout lines until fully saturated.
- Let sit for 15 minutes.
- Gently scrub with a grout brush.
- Use a towel or cloth soaked in water to remove remaining bleach solution.
- Dry surfaces with a clean, dry towel.
A word of caution: There are several types of grout and some cleaning methods may not be appropriate for your bathroom grout. Check with your contractor or product manufacturer before trying these products and materials to avoid damaging bathroom surfaces. Also, never mix cleaners—especially with bleach—as this can be hazardous to people and pets.
Seamless Bathroom Surfaces Make Cleaning a Breeze
If the thought of spending an afternoon cleaning bathroom floor grout doesn’t appeal to you, or you’re just looking to simplify your home cleaning routine, grout-less bathroom surfaces might be the answer.
We know that grout can be incredibly time and labor-intensive to keep it looking its best. That is why we silicone-seal our DuraBath™ Acrylic and Natural Stone bathtub and shower surrounds and walls. A grout-less bathroom is infinitely easier to maintain, and you don’t have to wait for days to use your bathroom after installation.
Our patented tile-look wall systems provide the classic appeal of bathroom tile, without the hassle or maintenance of traditional tile and grout applications. We offer 15 modern style patterns to match your style, taste, and budget.
Tips for Preventing Grout Stains
If you do have tile showers or floors, you probably want to know how to minimize stains and keep your grout looking bright and fresh.
Sealing grout is an essential step to protect it from dirt, mold, mildew, and stains. This should be done after installation and at least once to twice a year, depending on how much traffic your bathroom sees. You can hire a professional to seal grout, or try a commercial grout sealer available at your local home and garden center.
Are you ready to say good-bye to hard-to-clean tile and grout? Call 800-216-8526 or connect online to schedule a free design consultation to learn more about Re-Bath low maintenance products to transform your bathroom.