Grout fills the joints between tiles, helping protect the edges and preventing dirt and moisture from accumulating in the gaps. Unfortunately, this material is also porous and can easily absorb elements that could result in discoloration or staining. Over time, grease, grime and other elements can take a toll on your tile flooring or backsplash. The result is a home that looks dirty even after you have recently cleaned it. In same cases, the elements that have been absorbed into the grout could cause unpleasant odors. Cleaning grout regularly helps prevent dirt and discoloration from building up. Below, we’ll explain how to clean tile grout safely and which methods work best for different levels of staining.
Key Takeaways
- Start with the mildest cleaning method and use stronger solutions only for stubborn stains.
- A nylon grout brush is safer than a metal brush.
- Baking soda and water can help remove ordinary dirt and discoloration.
- Hydrogen peroxide may help with tougher stains but should be spot-tested first.
- Avoid acidic cleaners on natural stone and use caution on unsealed grout.
- Rinse away cleaner residue and allow the grout to dry thoroughly.
- Sealing appropriate grout can help reduce future staining.
Quick Tile Grout Cleaning Guide
| Grout Condition | Recommended Starting Method |
|---|---|
| Light surface dirt | Warm water + nylon brush |
| General dirty grout | Baking soda paste |
| Stubborn discoloration | Baking soda + hydrogen peroxide |
| Greasy kitchen grout | Mild dish soap and warm water |
| Mold or mildew | Appropriate grout-safe cleaner |
| Natural stone tile | pH-neutral cleaner only |
| Damaged/crumbling grout | Repair rather than aggressive cleaning |
How to Clean Tile Grout
Step 1: Remove Loose Dirt
Vacuum or sweep the tile first so loose dirt does not get worked into the grout while you scrub.
Step 2: Start With Warm Water
For lightly soiled grout, warm water and a nylon grout brush may be enough. Scrub along the grout lines using gentle pressure.
Step 3: Use Baking Soda for Dirtier Grout
Mix baking soda with enough water to create a thick paste. Apply it to the grout and let it sit for about 10–15 minutes before gently scrubbing with a nylon brush.
Step 4: Treat Stubborn Stains
For stubborn discoloration, a baking soda and hydrogen peroxide mixture may provide additional cleaning power. Test it first in an inconspicuous area, especially around colored grout.
Step 5: Rinse and Dry
Wipe or rinse away all cleaning residue with clean water, then dry the tile and grout thoroughly.
How to Clean Grout Between Floor Tiles
Floor grout usually collects more dirt than wall grout because it is exposed to foot traffic, dust, spills and cleaning residue. Vacuum or sweep the floor thoroughly before cleaning the grout lines. Start with warm water and a nylon brush, then move to a baking soda paste if dirt remains. Work in small sections and avoid soaking the grout with excessive water. After cleaning, rinse away any residue and dry the floor.
How to Clean Heavily Stained Grout
If ordinary cleaning does not restore the grout, apply a paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide and allow it to sit briefly before scrubbing. Repeat the treatment if necessary rather than immediately moving to harsh chemicals.
Persistent dark discoloration may indicate mold, deeply embedded staining or deteriorated grout. In those cases, professional cleaning, recoloring or regrouting may produce a better result than increasingly aggressive cleaning.
What Should You Avoid When Cleaning Grout?
- Metal brushes: They may damage grout and scratch tile.
- Strong acids: Vinegar and lemon juice can damage natural stone and may gradually affect some cement-based grout.
- Abrasive scrubbers: These can scratch tile surfaces.
- Excessive bleach or ammonia: Repeated use can discolor or deteriorate some grout.
- Too much water: Porous grout can absorb moisture.
Can You Steam Clean Tile Grout?
Steam can help loosen dirt in some sealed ceramic or porcelain tile installations, but it is not appropriate for every tile and grout system. Avoid steam if the grout is cracked, crumbling or poorly sealed, and use caution with natural stone. Always check the tile and grout manufacturer’s care recommendations before steam cleaning.
When Should Grout Be Replaced Instead of Cleaned?
Cleaning cannot repair grout that is cracked, crumbling, missing or badly deteriorated. If repeated cleaning does not improve the appearance or the grout itself is failing, regrouting may be a better solution. Replacing grout can often refresh a tiled surface without replacing the tile itself.
Should You Seal Grout After Cleaning?
Some cement-based grout benefits from a penetrating grout sealer, which can help reduce moisture absorption and staining. However, not every modern grout product requires sealing. Check the grout manufacturer’s recommendations before applying a sealer, and make sure the grout is completely clean and dry first.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Thing to Clean Tile Grout With?
For ordinary dirt, start with warm water and a nylon grout brush. For more stubborn discoloration, a baking soda paste can provide additional cleaning power without immediately resorting to harsh chemicals.
Does Baking Soda Clean Grout?
Yes. Baking soda mixed with water into a paste can help loosen dirt and stains from many types of grout. Apply it briefly, scrub with a nylon brush, rinse and dry the area.
Can You Use Vinegar to Clean Grout?
Vinegar should be used cautiously. Its acidity can damage natural stone and may gradually affect some unsealed cement-based grout. Check the tile and grout manufacturer’s recommendations before using acidic cleaners.
Can Hydrogen Peroxide Clean Grout?
Hydrogen peroxide may help brighten stained grout and is often combined with baking soda for tougher discoloration. Test it first, particularly on colored grout.
Can You Steam Clean Grout?
Steam may be suitable for some sealed ceramic or porcelain tile installations, but it should be avoided on damaged grout and surfaces that are sensitive to heat or moisture.
How Often Should Tile Grout Be Cleaned?
Clean spills and visible dirt promptly, and deep-clean grout whenever discoloration begins to develop. High-traffic floors and shower areas generally require more frequent attention.
Keep Tile and Grout Looking Their Best
Regular cleaning with the right methods can help prevent dirt and discoloration from becoming difficult to remove. Start with gentle cleaning methods, avoid products that could damage your tile or grout, and address stains before they become deeply embedded.
For more maintenance advice, explore our Flooring Cleaning Guides or visit Flooring Resources for more flooring care, buying and maintenance information.
