All right, you’ve swept or vacuumed the floor. You’re done mopping and scrubbing the tiles, and you’ve gotten everything dry… but the floor still looks grubby.
Don’t despair! Dirty grout lines impact the appearance of the most pristine tile floor. If the spaces between tiles are grubby or stained, the floor doesn’t look fully clean.
Before you grab some gloves and a scrub brush, make sure you’re fully prepped on how to clean grout!
Choose the appropriate solution for your tile material, such as:
- Dish soap and water
- Baking soda and hydrogen peroxide
- Commercial grout cleaner
- Washing soda
- Steam cleaners
With the right cleaning tools and some old-fashioned elbow grease, your tiles will look grout-standing.
Before Cleaning | How to Clean | Cleaning Wall Grout | Removing Stains | Other Grout Types | Cleaning Without Scrubbing | Can I Use This?
How Often to Clean Grout
Regular cleaning is key to maintaining tiles and grout, so here’s a handy chart to keep you on track:
| TASK | FREQUENCY |
| Tackle spills and stains | Immediately blot or mop up |
| Vacuum or sweep floors | A few times a week (or daily if you have pets) |
| Wash tile floors and grout | Once a week |
| Deep clean grout lines | Once a month |
What to Know Before Cleaning Grout
It may feel tempting to grab what’s under the sink and start scrubbing, but not all cleaners are safe for tile grout! Using the wrong product can erode grout or etch the tile.
The tile and grout material will determine which cleaners are safe to use. This is especially important for stone tiles, which are more sensitive to strong or acidic products.
Identify the tile or grout materials
Be sure you know what type of tile and grout you have before working — these will influence your cleaning method!
For homes and apartments, you’ll typically find these types of tiles:
- Ceramic or porcelain: The most common tiles found in homes! These are durable, easy-to-clean materials often found in kitchens and bathrooms.
- Natural stone: Typically made of limestone, marble, slate, or travertine. Require more specialised cleaners so the material doesn’t etch or discolour.
- Vinyl or linoleum: Both materials don’t need grout, as they’re usually laid down in sheets or planks! Resilient floors like these just need a good mop for maintenance.
Then between the tiles, you have grout, a porous material that helps reinforce the tiles and keep your floor stable.
Cement-based grout is used most in residential spaces, since it’s most cost-effective, but does require regular re-sealing and is prone to staining.
These are the typical types of household grout you’ll find:
- Sanded: Cement-based with sand for binding
- Unsanded: Cement-based without sand, commonly used for small or delicate tiles
- Acrylic: Pre-mixed with acrylic polymer that’s pricey but very durable
- Epoxy: Expensive and specially mixed, but extremely durable and water-impervious
Since acrylic and epoxy are both more resistant to stains and moisture, they’re easier to maintain.
What to use for cleaning tile grout
Once you’ve identified what your tiles and grout are made of, you’ll know how to clean them!
| TYPE OF TILE | GROUT CLEANER | TIPS |
| Ceramic or porcelain tile grout |
|
These tiles are durable and non-porous, so they can tolerate stronger cleaners. For coloured grout, test an inconspicuous spot first to avoid fading. |
| Natural stone tile grout |
|
Avoid acidic solutions (e.g. vinegar) or highly alkaline solutions (washing soda) for delicate stone, since these can etch or degrade the finish. Certain durable stones (like granite) can tolerate alkaline cleaners. |
Do not mix cleaners, as some combinations (e.g. vinegar and bleach) create toxic reactions.
Besides your chosen cleaner, you’ll need an old toothbrush, grout brush, or stiff-bristled brush for scrubbing. Some people prefer an electric spin brush for tile floors to make things easier!
Lastly, get some microfibre cloths or a microfibre mop (for floors).
What should you not clean grout with?
Avoid harsh chemicals like chlorine bleach and ammonia, since these can degrade the sealant and the grout underneath. Skip highly abrasive cleaners (like wire brushes or steel wool) for the same reason.
Do not use toilet bowl cleaner for grout — it often contains caustic chemicals (like bleach or hydrochloric acid) that may eat away the material over time.
Preparing for tile grout cleaning
Always start by sweeping, vacuuming, or dry-dusting the surface. That removes loose dirt and debris that could scratch the tiles or muddy your cleaning solution.
Check the grout for any cracks or damage; if you see anything, don’t clean yet! Moisture could seep inside and lead to mould or damage. Instead, get the grout resealed or repaired first.
Gather your tools and cleaners beforehand so you can work efficiently. If you’re unsure about your cleaning product, test it on a tiny spot first, then watch for discolouration or dulling.
Open the windows for ventilation and be sure to wear rubber gloves while working! You can also use old towels or plastic sheets to protect nearby surfaces (like furniture) if needed.
How to Clean Tile Grout on Floors
Are you tackling bathroom floor tiles? Or deep cleaning the laundry? Whatever the room, the right cleaning method is key to good grout maintenance.
However, if you’re overwhelmed by all the lines between the tiles, Maid2Match can get your home clean, floors and all.
Cleaning grout with dish soap
STRENGTH: Mild
EFFORT: Easy
Dish soap and water are effective for routine cleaning, since they’re mild enough for most tile materials (including stone) while tackling everyday dirt.
Add a few drops of dish soap to a spray bottle of water. Starting in one corner of the room, spray the grout lines with the mixture, then go over them with your scrubbing brush. Wipe away the dirty water with a clean cloth as you go.
Once you’ve finished the whole area, go over the floor with a damp mop to remove any soapy residue. Dry the tiles afterwards with a fresh mop head or towels.
Cleaning grout with baking soda and hydrogen peroxide
STRENGTH: Moderate
EFFORT: Moderate
Baking soda is one of the best natural cleaners for grout, especially when mixed with hydrogen peroxide. The resulting paste effectively lifts dirt, but gets quite messy!
Do not use this on dark grout, as peroxide has mild bleaching properties, or on stone tiles, as it can damage the material.
Mix 2 parts baking soda with 1 part hydrogen peroxide to create a paste. (Optional: a few drops of dish soap for extra cleaning strength.) Spread the paste over the dirty grout lines and let it sit for 5–10 minutes.
Use your scrubbing brush or a soft sponge to scrub the grout until it’s clean. Mop up the residue with a damp cloth as you go. Once you’ve done all the grout, rinse any remaining mess with a mop then dry the floors with a new mop or some towels.
Using commercial grout cleaner
STRENGTH: Strong
EFFORT: Easy
Make sure to choose a product that’s compatible with your tiles! Porcelain or ceramic can tolerate most formulas, while stone needs pH-neutral cleaners.
Some of our top picks for grout cleaners include ZEP Grout Cleaner and Weiman Stone & Tile Cleaner.
Follow the package instructions for application and (if needed) rinsing. If you have pets, opt for pet-friendly products or keep them out of the room until the floors have dried!
Cleaning grout with washing soda
STRENGTH: Strong
EFFORT: Moderate
Alkaline solutions like washing soda are some of the best ways to clean grout, especially in kitchens! Washing soda effectively breaks down grease and other everyday kitchen grime.
It’s even safe for durable stone like granite (as it’s denser), but avoid it for delicate stones that are more porous, like marble or limestone.
Mix a DIY grout cleaner with 2 parts washing soda and 1 part warm water, then cover the grout with the paste. Leave it to work for up to 15 minutes before going over the grout with a scrubbing brush.
Rinse the floors thoroughly with a mop and fresh water, then dry.
Steam cleaning grout
STRENGTH: Strong
EFFORT: Moderate
Yes, you can steam clean your tile grout! Steam cleaners are effective and more efficient at cleaning large areas like tile floors.
For stone tiles, check with the manufacturer first — the heat may damage some sealers or cause the tiles to crack.
Mop your tiles with mild detergent and water to remove excess grime that could block the steam from reaching the grout. Then fill the steam cleaner with plain water only.
Switch the cleaner to the appropriate setting and run it slowly over the grout lines. Work on one section at a time and mop up the dirty water before it seeps back into the grout.
Go over the floor with a dry mop afterwards to remove excess moisture, then let the surface air dry.
Cleaning Wall Grout in Different Rooms
Wall grout doesn’t get the same wear as floor grout, but it’s not maintenance-free! Bathrooms and showers cop constant moisture, for example, while kitchen splashbacks see lots of grease.
Each room needs a slightly different approach, but you should always work from top to bottom when cleaning grout on walls. Otherwise, dirty water can drip on areas you’ve already cleaned.
How to clean bathroom grout
The ambient humidity in bathrooms means the tiles are prone to mould or mildew alongside general grime. Bathroom tiles near the sink could be splattered with toothpaste, soap, and cosmetic products.
For regular maintenance, wash the surfaces with dish soap and water — that should be enough to keep the grout clean. Wipe off any splatters ASAP and spot-treat any stains as needed.
For deeper cleans, especially with mould, opt for a baking soda paste (2 parts bicarb, 1 part hydrogen peroxide). Open the windows or exhaust so the room is ventilated!
How to clean grout in the shower
Shower grout is its own beast, since the tiles are constantly exposed to moisture and bathroom products. Limescale, soap scum, and general grime build up quickly, while there’s a higher risk of mould or mildew.
Before you start, switch on the exhaust fan or open some windows to ensure proper ventilation. Wear rubber gloves as well to protect your skin.
For porcelain/ceramic shower tiles, use the 2:1 paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Apply it over the grout lines with a damp sponge, then let it sit for 5–10 minutes.
Follow with an old toothbrush or grout brush to scrub, working from top to bottom so you don’t track dirt on cleaned surfaces. Rinse the walls and floor using the showerhead before drying the surfaces thoroughly.
NOTE: If you have stone tiles in the shower, opt for a compatible grout cleaner instead — hydrogen peroxide can discolour stone!
How to clean kitchen tile grout
Kitchen tiles (especially the splashback) are often exposed to grease and food debris, which leave stubborn stains.
Your first line of defence will be water and grease-cutting dish soap. Wash the tiles regularly to prevent a buildup of grease and grime.
For dirtier grout, opt for washing soda. Dilute it according to package instructions and apply the solution to the grout with a sponge, then scrub with a grout brush. Rinse the tiles and grout with a damp cloth afterwards.
If you have very tough grout stains or grease buildup, treat it with a washing soda paste (2 parts washing soda, 1 part water).
How to Clean Stained Grout
Grout stains happen for many reasons. Maybe someone spilled sauce in the kitchen, or maybe pink mould has appeared in your shower.
For spills, remove any solids with a paper towel, then blot the liquid straight away.
Keep in mind that these solutions are designed for porcelain or ceramic tiles. For stone tiles, check with the manufacturer or look for a dedicated stone-safe cleaner.
How to clean stained white grout
A baking soda and peroxide paste is one of the best ways to remove stains on white grout! Baking soda is mildly abrasive, while hydrogen peroxide has light bleaching properties.
Apply the paste over the grout stains and scrub the area clean after 5–10 minutes. Rinse the area afterwards. Be patient — the grout will continue to lighten after you’ve rinsed and dried the surface!
For deep-seated stains, you may need to repeat the process, or go straight to undiluted 3% peroxide. Test it on an inconspicuous spot first, though!
How to clean mould on tile grout
Mould on grout usually appears green or black. If you have pink to orange mould stains, though, that’s likely pink mould! It’s caused by Serratia marcescens bacteria, which is generally harmless and can be cleaned the same way.
If your grout is turning black or green, use either borax or hydrogen peroxide:
- Undiluted 3% hydrogen peroxide
- 1/2 cup borax with a few tbsp warm water
Apply your chosen cleaner to the affected area. Peroxide needs to sit for around 10 minutes, while borax needs at least half an hour.
Scrub the area thoroughly with a sponge or old toothbrush until the mould stains lift.
For large affected areas or suspected black mould, however, it’s better to call a professional mould remediator.
How to clean hard water stains in grout
Chalky white, yellow, or pale green stains on grout can also be caused by limescale or mineral buildup from hard water. It looks bad, but is pretty easy to clean.
Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle, then saturate the grout. Wait 3–5 minutes before working off the stains with a soft-bristled brush. Rinse the surface afterwards before drying.
How to get rust stains out of grout
Acidic cleaners are most effective on rust, since the acids react with the metal compounds, making them easier to remove.
Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle, or 1 part citric acid powder to 20 parts water. Spritz directly onto the rust stains and wait 3–5 minutes, then go over the grout with a soft-bristled brush.
Rinse the area thoroughly with clean water, then dry.
Cleaning Other Types of Grout
Most homes have standard, sealed grout in white or off-white.
But if you have newly-applied or coloured grout, you’ll need to adjust your approach so you don’t damage the material.
How to clean unsealed grout
Whether you have freshly-laid grout or the sealant has worn off, you’ll need to clean before resealing. Otherwise, you’ll trap dirt in the lines!
Stick with mild cleaning methods so you don’t damage the material. Always wait until the grout has fully cured before you work. It’s usually at least 72 hours, but you can check with the installer.
Start by sweeping or vacuuming away loose dirt and grout residue. For walls, wipe away the dust and haze with a dry microfibre cloth.
The simplest ways to clean unsealed grout are with mild detergent or baking soda. Mix a few drops of detergent in a bucket of water, and dip in an old toothbrush. Carefully scrub between the tiles.
Otherwise, make a paste with equal parts baking soda and water. Spread it onto the grout with a soft-bristled brush and work the paste over the surface.
Rinse off the tiles with clean water and thoroughly wipe dry.
How to clean coloured grout
It’s harder to know when to clean black grout, since stains and dirt don’t show as easily. You’ll need to follow a regular cleaning schedule and tackle messes promptly.
Then, for coloured grout in general, acidic cleaners can fade or ruin the appearance.
Your best option for cleaning coloured grout is a specially-formulated product, like the acid-free Black Diamond Grout Cleaner. Dish soap is also mild enough for an everyday cleaner!
Can I Clean Tile Grout Without Scrubbing?
You can, so long as the grout is just mildly dirty!
The best ways to clean floor tile grout without scrubbing are hydrogen peroxide, washing soda, or steam cleaning.
Mix 1 part 3% peroxide with 3 parts water in a spray bottle, then spritz onto the grout. Wait up to 10 minutes before wiping the surfaces dry or going over them with a mop.
For washing soda, make a paste of 2 parts washing soda and 1 part water. Spread between the tiles and let it work for up to 10 minutes before wiping it off.
Of course, steam cleaning is the easiest no-scrub option for grout cleaning. Just be sure the manufacturer allows it for your tiles!
NOTE: For delicate stone tiles, stick with dedicated, pH-neutral cleaners.
Maintaining Grout Between Cleaning
Keep your grout looking good between deep cleans with these habits:
- Dry surfaces after cleaning
- Vacuum or sweep floors regularly
- Wipe spills or splatters straight away
- Ensure bathrooms and laundries are well-ventilated
- Wipe or squeegee shower walls at the end of the day
Can I Use This to Clean Grout?
Besides the usual grout cleaners, you may wonder if other things around your home can work.
Before you grab that toothpaste tube or Magic Eraser, though, check if it’ll actually work!
Does cleaning grout with vinegar work?
White vinegar can spot-clean stains on porcelain or ceramic tile grout, especially in bathrooms. It’s effective at removing hard water deposits and rust stains, and helps prevent mould.
However, it’s not recommended for repeated, prolonged use (such as routine cleaning), as the acidity can break down the sealant and damage grout over time. Do not use it on stone tiles since it can etch or discolour the material.
For stain removal, mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle, then saturate the grout lines. Wait 3–5 minutes (not longer) before scrubbing the stains off with an old toothbrush. Wipe with a dry cloth to remove residue.
Does cleaning grout with bleach work?
Do not use chlorine bleach on grout since it can degrade both the sealant and grout. It also creates toxic fumes if mixed with other cleaners (like ammonia or vinegar).
For very heavy stains on light-coloured grout, oxygen bleach (sodium percarbonate) is a safer alternative since it’s less reactive. Dilute it according to the package and mix it only with water. Work in a well-ventilated room while wearing protective gear (rubber gloves and a face mask).
Does a Magic Eraser work on grout?
Yes, but it’s best for occasionally spot-cleaning grout between ceramic or porcelain tiles.
Avoid using Magic Erasers (and other melamine sponges) on stone tiles, since the fine abrasive foam can scuff or dull the finish.
Additionally, Magic Erasers aren’t recommended for routine cleaning since you’d need a large number to cover an entire floor — and that’s not an efficient or cost-effective method.
Can you clean grout with toothpaste?
Like a Magic Eraser, white non-gel toothpaste can work for spot-cleaning the grout between porcelain or ceramic tiles. Do not use coloured or gel toothpaste!
Toothpaste contains mild abrasives (like calcium carbonate), which can gently scrub off stains, while some formulas have baking soda for additional cleaning power.
However, it’s only efficient to use toothpaste for small, minor stains — you’d need a lot of toothpaste to clean a whole floor.
Moreover, toothpaste is not safe for stone, as it can etch the surface (especially on polished stone).
Can you use Napisan for cleaning grout?
No, it’s not recommended to use Napisan to clean your grout since it’s not formulated for that use. You could risk damaging your floor, especially if it’s made of natural stone.
Anecdotally, Napisan has worked for people. Napisan has oxygen bleach (sodium percarbonate) as an active ingredient, which could work for grout.
But since it contains other ingredients like surfactants or brighteners, which aren’t suitable for floors, it’s safer to stick with proven cleaning methods!
Does WD-40 work on grout?
Surprisingly, yes — WD-40 can spot-treat some stains on porcelain/ceramic tiles and grout, such as rust or mild grime. However, avoid using it on stone or on surfaces near food prep areas (like kitchen walls).
Spray a small amount of WD-40 onto the grout line, then wipe it off with a soft cloth or sponge. Wash and dry the surface afterwards to remove any oily residue, which can make a surface slippery or attract dirt.
More About Grout Cleaning: FAQs
Got more questions about maintaining tile grout? We’ve answered some common ones below!
Why is my grout still dirty after cleaning?
There are a couple of reasons why your grout still looks dirty despite cleaning, such as:
- Dirty cleaning tools
- Wrong cleaner used
- Grout too old or porous
- Stubborn or permanent stains
- Not scrubbing enough or at all
If you’ve tried everything and the grout still looks grubby, though, it might be time to recolour the grout or replace it.
Should I seal grout after cleaning?
No, you don’t need to seal grout every time you clean!
Tile grout generally needs resealing every 12–18 months for most rooms, or every 6–12 months for high-moisture or high-traffic areas.
Sealants protect grout from dirt and moisture, and keep the material from degrading.
Can I paint grout instead of cleaning it?
Products like grout pens or stainers let you touch up or recolour grout to freshen its appearance. However, these are cosmetic fixes — they don’t remove dirt or stains underneath.
You’ll still need to clean your grout before applying the colour, or you’ll just trap dirt underneath!
Plus, regular maintenance keeps the grout in good condition and prevents stains from setting.
Can old grout be cleaned or does it need replacing?
You can generally clean old grout so long as it’s not cracked or otherwise damaged. Just be aware that you may not get it white again due to age and accumulated dirt.
If the grout is crumbly, cracked, or worn out, though, you’re better off getting the floors regrouted!
