Hint: The solution to dirty grout may be in your pantry.
Grout lines are magnets for dirt and grime, and dingy grout can detract from
the good looks of pretty tile. Eliminate dirty grout for good with these best tile grout cleaners, tips
and tricks.
Grout is a tricky to keep clean because it is porous. And on
tile floors, crumbs and dirt can be left behind, even after sweeping. Plus, a
quick wipe of the tiled surface can sometimes miss spots because the grout
lines are often slightly deeper than the surface.
But common household products can be used to tackle dirty
grout. Watch the video below to find out more.
Lightly Stained Grout
To clean stained grout, use a strong bleach solution (3/4
cup of bleach to 1 gallon of water) and scrub with a small brush or toothbrush.
Don't scrub too hard, though; you might damage the grout. Wear safety goggles
to prevent the bleach from spattering in your eyes. Keep the work area
ventilated. Or try a foaming grout cleaner that might need to soak for several
minutes to be effective.
Deeply Stained Grout
If grout is deeply stained and discolored, replace it. Tile
stores sell and sometimes rent tools for removing grout. Run the tool along the
grout, taking care not to scratch the surrounding tile. Clean the space between
the tiles with a strong bleach solution, then apply new grout and seal it. Do
NOT spill bleach on porcelain because the solution might cause pitting or
yellow or pink stains.
New Tile and Grout
Because grout is so porous and prone to collecting grime,
you'll want to start your grout-cleaning regimen with prevention. If you
recently installed new grout or renewed existing grout in a tile floor, keep
that new grout looking its best by using a grout sealer 10-14 days after the
grout cures.
