DIY Decorating/Remodeling Flooring Grout Cleaner 101
Grout Cleaner 101 Print E-mail
Written by John S.   

grout cleaners

Grout Cleaners – From Natural to Chemical Based Grout Cleaners. Tile grout is a nuisance and can be difficult to remove.  While there are tile grout cleaners that can help you with this grimy chore, there are some natural products that are effective grout cleaners. Grout cleaner is needed anywhere you have tile, generally in the kitchen or bathroom.

Bathroom tile is usually in need of tile grout cleaning because of mold or mildew, which causes grout to stain.  Kitchen tile generally needs tile grout cleaner due to food stains, general household traffic and grime and mildew.  

Always start with the least chemical based grout cleaner solution you can find and then work your way up to the harsher chemical grout cleaners.  While natural grout cleaner is a better choice for your health, sometimes natural grout cleaner is not strong enough.

Grout cleaners from no chemicals to the highest chemical based:

  • Vinegar and baking soda:  This is a great grout cleaner for some stains and for everyday cleaning.  Dilute vinegar with an equal amount of water OR make a paste of baking soda and a little bit of water.  Spray or dab cleaner onto the grout and scrub with a stiff brush.  Scrub in small circles instead of straight up and down, as this is a more effective method and will remove more junk from the grout.  With a mop, rinse well.  Then dry with a sponge or paper towels.
  • Common store cleaners:  Common household cleaners, such as Mr. Clean, Lysol or powder based cleaners can also be effective tile grout cleaner.  This is where the chemicals come in, but they are not as strong as the grout cleaners listed next.  However, an alternative to these cleaners is to rent a steam cleaner.  A steam cleaner works wonders with only water.  The pressure from the steam cleaner loosens debris and stains that cannot be dissolved.
  • Commercial tile and grout cleaner:  If you are still having problems with the grout cleaners you have tried, you will need to try commercial tile and grout cleaner.  Look for a grout cleaner that is pH balanced so the chemicals won’t erode the grout.  Spray on and let sit for a few minutes before you scrub.  
  • Stronger chemical based grout cleaner:  If after you have tried all the methods above you still have stains, you will have to use the stronger chemical based products, such as oxygen bleach powder, hydrogen peroxide or chlorine bleach.  Be sure to dilute these grout cleaners very well.  Also, you can find heavy duty grout cleaners at hardware stores or janitorial supply outlets.  IMPORTANT!  Read the labels carefully and follow all directions.  These can be dangerous to your health.  Make sure to ventilate the room appropriately.

Tips for Cleaning Grout

  • Before using any grout cleaner product, clean with water and allow it to dry to help remove any surface debris.  
  • Never use bleach on grout that is colored.  It will become discolored.
  • Do not use toothbrushes, as they are too soft.  You need to use a stiff brush, however, stay away from metal bristles.  They can tear the grout.
  • For any grout cleaner that contains chemicals, be sure you ventilate the room very well.
  • When using chemical based grout cleaner, use gloves and protective eye wear.
  • Test grout cleaner on a small area first.
  • Never ever mix chemicals together, including using two different cleaners separately in the same room.  The fumes can be toxic and even deadly.

If you use all of the methods above, you will be sure to have a freshly cleaned room.  Prevent stains by applying the natural grout cleaner on a more continuous basis.

Comments (3)
  • Kate J.  - Thanks!
    Great article. I think one of the most important things to keep in mind is to work in a well-ventilated area so, as the article says, you won't be overcome by the fumes. If you don't want to spend the time yourself, you could look into a professional tile cleaner like this one - http://www.hartscarpetcleaning.com
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