How to Clean Tile Grout and Make Your Floors Look Like New
Fortunately, heavily stained grout doesn’t always require replacement. With patience, proper cleaning techniques, and a few common household supplies, it’s often possible to restore much of its original appearance.
What You’ll Need
Many grout-cleaning jobs can be completed using basic household supplies.
Warm water
Baking soda
White vinegar*
Mild dish soap
Hydrogen peroxide for stubborn stains
Small stiff nylon brush or old toothbrush
Microfiber cloths
Bucket
Spray bottle
Rubber gloves
*Avoid using vinegar on natural stone surfaces such as marble, limestone, travertine, or slate, as acidic cleaners may damage these materials.
Step 1: Remove Loose Dirt
Start by thoroughly sweeping or vacuuming the entire floor.
Removing loose dust, sand, and debris first helps prevent scratching during cleaning and allows the cleaning solution to work directly on the stained grout.
Pay extra attention to corners, edges, and areas around baseboards where dirt commonly accumulates.
Step 2: Prepare a Gentle Cleaning Paste
Mix baking soda with a small amount of water until it forms a thick paste.
Apply the paste directly onto the grout lines, making sure they are completely covered.
Allow it to sit for several minutes before scrubbing so it can begin loosening embedded dirt.
For greasy kitchen grout, adding a few drops of mild dish soap to the mixture may help break down oily residue.
Step 3: Scrub the Grout
Using a stiff nylon brush or an old toothbrush, scrub along each grout line using short back-and-forth motions.
