How To Clean Grout

There are various ways to clean grout between tiles, from everyday household products like cloths to specialised grout and tile cleaners  with powerful stain removal properties. Some methods work best for light stains, while other concentrated grout cleaners tackle tougher grime and hard-to-shift films after installing tiles.

Best methods for cleaning grout

• Grout cleaner – a specially formulated grout cleaner is the most effective option for removing tough stains and restoring the grout’s original colour. Choose a product for your tile type, whether it's bathroom tiles, floor tiles, or kitchen splashbacks for appropriate cleaning.
• Bicarbonate of soda & vinegar – this natural solution works well for lifting stains, but vinegar can weaken particular tile finishes. Always test a small area before use.
• Hydrogen peroxide – a strong but safe alternative to bleach, is great for cleaning floor tile grout and tackling mould, especially in bathrooms. However, it may lighten coloured grout over time.
• Steam cleaning is a chemical-free method that effectively removes dirt from grout without scrubbing. It’s ideal to clean bathroom grout, but it may not remove deep-set stains.
• Microfibre cloths - highly absorbent and non-abrasive, microfibre cloths lift dirt without damaging tiles. They buff grout lines dry to prevent water spots and mould while applying cleaning solutions lint-free.

When to avoid harsh methods

• Bleach – although it can whiten grout, frequent use can weaken the material and cause it to crumble over time.
• Abrasive scrubbing tools – wire brushes and rough pads can scratch tiles and wear down grout. Instead, use non-abrasive tools like a soft-bristled grout brush, an old toothbrush, or a grout sponge.
• Sanding – while sanding helps remove old grout before regrouting, it’s not recommended for cleaning grout as it can damage the surface. If grout is heavily stained and beyond cleaning, it may be time to regrout instead.

What is the best grout cleaner?
The best grout cleaner depends on your tile type and the severity of the stains. Use a dedicated grout cleaner such as Scrubb for tough stains and grime suitable for most surfaces. For lighter stains, bicarbonate of soda is a natural and effective option. If you're unsure how to clean grout between tiles, avoid harsher chemicals and corrosives that could weaken the grout or damage the tiles

When using chemical cleaners, follow these steps to clean grout effectively:

Step 1. Select your cleaner

When choosing a cleaner, consider the stain severity, surface type, and frequency of use. Use stronger acid-based or oxygen-bleach cleaners for tough stains, ingrained dirt or mildew. Opt for milder, non-abrasive products such as citrus-based cleaners for light stains and regular cleaning. Always check that the cleaner suits your tile material, like ceramic or porcelain.

Step 2. Apply your grout cleaner

Apply a grout cleaner directly to the grout lines. Before applying it to larger areas, test the cleaner on a small patch to check for discolouration or damage. Apply evenly and let it sit for the recommended time to loosen grime and stains, especially when cleaning bathroom grout or floor tiles.

Step 3. Scrub the grout

Use a scrub brush or an old toothbrush to scrub the grout gently. When cleaning grout between tiles, scrub the grout lines to remove all built-up dirt.

Step 4. Rinse and wipe clean

Once you’ve scrubbed, rinse the area with water and wipe it down with a microfiber cloth to remove any excess cleaner and grime.

Step 5. Dry and seal

After cleaning, dry the grout. If you're unsure how to clean floor tile grout, consider applying a grout sealer to protect it from future stains.

If you’re looking for natural ways to clean grout between tiles or floor tile grout with minimal effort, these household remedies can help break down dirt and stains effectively.

The steps may vary depending on the tools and cleaning solutions you use, but here’s a general guide:

Step 1. Make a bicarbonate of soda paste

Mix the bicarbonate of soda with water to form a thick paste. This method works well for cleaning grout between tiles.

Step 2. Apply a natural acidic solution

Spray white vinegar, lemon juice, or diluted hydrogen peroxide onto the paste. The fizzing reaction helps break down stains, especially in floor tile grout.

Step 3. Scrub with a brush or steam cleaner

Use a toothbrush or grout brush to scrub the grout lines. Let the paste sit longer, or use a handheld steam cleaner for a no-scrub grout cleaning method.

Step 4. Try alternative natural whiteners

For extra brightening, mix a small amount of toothpaste into your paste or apply a mix of salt and lemon juice.

Step 5. Rinse and dry

Wipe away the residue with a damp microfiber cloth. For ongoing maintenance, mop with warm water and a splash of vinegar.

When deciding how to clean floor tile grout yourself or hire a professional, it's essential to weigh the benefits of both options:

DIY grout cleaning

Clean your grout with a grout cleaner or baking soda paste if it is lightly stained. This method is cost-effective and works well for regular maintenance.

• Budget-friendly and easy for light stains.
• Helps maintain grout between tiles with routine care.
• Requires scrubbing, which can be time-consuming.
• Less effective for deep stains or mould.

Professional grout cleaning

For stubborn stains or mould, professionals use specialised tools and steam cleaners to restore grout. This is particularly useful when learning how to clean bathroom grout in high-moisture areas.

• Best for how to clean floor tile grout without scrubbing.
• Saves time and delivers deep-cleaning results.
• More expensive than DIY options.
• It may not be necessary for minor stains.

DIY cleaning is great for routine upkeep, but hiring a professional ensures long-lasting results for discoloured or hard-to-clean grout.