How to Clean Grout: Easy Methods for Floors, Showers and Counters

Knowing how to clean grout can make old tile look brand new. Grout is porous, so it soaks up dirt, grease and moisture. Over time, light lines turn gray, brown or black. The good news is that you do not need expensive products. Simple household ingredients clean most grout well.

Why Grout Gets Dirty

Grout sits slightly below the tile surface. As a result, dirt collects in the lines. In kitchens, grease sticks to it. In bathrooms, soap scum and moisture encourage mildew. Unsealed grout absorbs stains even faster.

What You Need

• Baking soda
• 3 percent hydrogen peroxide
• White vinegar (for non-stone tile only)
• A stiff grout brush or old toothbrush
• A spray bottle
• Clean cloths

How to Clean Grout With Baking Soda and Peroxide

This method is gentle but effective for most light to moderate stains.

1. Sweep or vacuum the floor to remove loose dirt.
2. Mix baking soda and hydrogen peroxide into a thick paste.
3. Spread the paste along the grout lines.
4. Let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes.
5. Scrub with the brush in short back-and-forth strokes.
6. Wipe with a damp cloth, then rinse with water.

Use Vinegar and Baking Soda for Tougher Grime

First, sprinkle baking soda over the grout. Next, spray with a 50-50 mix of vinegar and water. The mixture will fizz. Let it work for ten minutes, then scrub and rinse. Do not use vinegar on natural stone such as marble or limestone, because acid can damage it.

Try Oxygen Bleach for Deep Stains

Oxygen bleach powder is safer than chlorine bleach. Mix it with hot water according to the label. Apply to the grout and wait 15 to 30 minutes. Scrub and rinse well. Always ventilate the room and wear gloves.

Use a Steam Cleaner

A steam cleaner loosens grime without chemicals. Move the nozzle slowly along each grout line. Then wipe up the loosened dirt right away. This option works well on floors and backsplashes.

How to Clean Mildew in Shower Grout

Black spots in showers usually mean mildew. Spray a hydrogen peroxide solution, wait fifteen minutes and scrub. For serious problems, see our full guide on how to get rid of mold in the bathroom. If hard water also leaves marks, learn how to remove hard water stains.

Seal Grout to Keep It Clean

Sealing protects clean grout from future stains. After cleaning, let the grout dry for 24 hours. Then apply a penetrating grout sealer with a small brush or applicator bottle. Wipe off excess from the tile. Reseal every one to two years.

The Tile Council of North America provides technical resources on its official website.

Grout Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

• Using wire brushes that scratch tile and grout
• Mixing bleach with ammonia or vinegar
• Soaking floors with too much water
• Skipping the sealer

Final Thoughts

Now you know how to clean grout in several simple ways. Start with baking soda and peroxide, scrub gently and seal when dry. A little regular care keeps your tile bright for years.