How to Clean Tile Grout

Tiles are a type of floor and wall covering that is very easy to clean, allowing you to keep your bathroom and kitchen neat. However, grime and mold can build up on the grout, making the surface dirty and less appealing. Fortunately, there are some simple techniques to solve this problem.

5-Minute Crafts will show you different methods to help you keep these rooms looking great.

Method 1: vinegar

Besides killing bacteria, the acetic acid in vinegar can remove mineral deposits, dirt, grease, and grime, making it a great eco-friendly cleaning agent. Use it on colored and white grout with light stains by preparing a solution with water.

How to do it:

1. Pour the same amount of vinegar and warm water into a spray bottle.
2. Apply the mixture to the surface and leave it on for 5 minutes.
3. Scrub it gently with a stiff brush.

Method 2: lemon juice

This natural ingredient can get rid of tough stains in grout due to its high acidity. Besides being an organic cleaning agent, it will leave your kitchen or bathroom with a fresh smell.

How to use it:

1. Squeeze a fresh lemon or as many as you need.
2. Apply the juice directly to the grout lines and let it sit for 10 minutes. You can use an old toothbrush to ease this step.
3. Wipe it off with a damp cloth.

Method 3: baking soda and dish soap

Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a safe cleaner and mild whitener. It will help you eliminate dirt and stains without the risk of damaging tiles. Also, the components of dish soap will help you remove grease and oil stains.

How to do it:

1. Mix one part baking soda with a few drops of dish soap. Then add enough water to make a paste.
2. Apply the mixture to the grout and leave it on for 20 minutes.
3. Scrub it with an old toothbrush and rinse.

Method 4: ammonia, vinegar, and baking soda

Ammonia is a colorless ingredient found in many household cleaning products. It’s effective at removing grime and stains caused by animal fat or vegetable oil, so it can be very useful for kitchen tiles. In order to avoid skin or eye irritation when handling it, make sure the area is ventilated, and wear protective gloves and glasses.

How to do it:

1. Pour 7 cups of warm water, 1/2 cup of baking soda, 1/3 cup of ammonia, and 1/4 cup of vinegar into a bucket. Stir gently to combine the mixture.
2. Dip a sponge into it and apply it to the grout. Let it sit for some minutes.
3. Scrub it with a brush, rinse, and wipe dry.

Notes: If the grout doesn’t seem clean after this procedure, apply more mixture and leave it on for up to an hour.

Method 5: hydrogen peroxide

This transparent liquid is a chemical used in a wide variety of cleaning and personal care products. It’s effective against bacteria and fungi and can also act as a whitening agent. For this reason, it’s recommended to test it on a small hidden area before using it on a big one, like floors.

How to use it:

1. Apply hydrogen peroxide directly to the grout. You can use a spray bottle to ease this step. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes.
2. Scrub it off with a stiff brush in a circular motion.
3. Rinse the treated area with water.

Method 6: chlorine bleach

If the stains are too difficult to remove, you may want to try this product. Just make sure to dilute it with water as indicated in the instructions on the bottle, and be sure to do it in a well-ventilated area. For extra safety, it is also recommended to wear a mask and gloves.

How to use it:

1. With an old toothbrush, scrub the chlorine bleach solution directly onto the grout. Work in small areas.
2. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes and rinse with warm water. Repeat if necessary.

Note: Avoid applying chlorine bleach to colored grout because it can cause fading. Never mix it with other cleaning agents, such as ammonia or acidic products since it may produce toxic gas.

Method 7: hydrogen peroxide and baking soda

This combination is another way to get rid of tough and difficult stains.

How to do it:

1. Pour some baking soda into a bowl and add enough hydrogen peroxide to make a thick paste.
2. Apply the mixture onto the grout using an old toothbrush. Coat the area completely and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes.
3. Scrub the grout with the toothbrush again. Repeat the previous steps if the dirt doesn’t seem to come off.
4. Remove the remaining paste using a damp cloth. Finish the procedure by spraying some cleaner and wiping it down with a clean mop.