Cleaning the grout between the floor tiles is super important for keeping any tiled floor looking its best. Over time, dirt, grime, and spills can make the grout look gross and dingy. Mold and mildew love to grow in the grout lines too, especially in bathrooms or basements.
However, taking the time to really clean the grout will help the floor tiles maintain their appearance and keep your space looking awesome. So, if you don’t know how to clean a floor tile grout, you are on the right spot.
This article will go over why it’s so necessary to clean the grout, different methods and supplies, how to clean between the floor tiles, tips for the best results, how to prevent issues, and when you may need a professional cleaner. And with some simple cleaning techniques and the right tools, you can get your grout looking brand new again!
Why is it important to clean Floor Tile Grout?
It may seem tedious, but taking the time to clean grout thoroughly pays off when it comes to the appearance and longevity of your tiled floors. Here are some key reasons to make grout cleaning a priority:
Prevent Buildup of Dirt and Grime
Grout is porous, which means it easily absorbs dirt, grime, oils, and other contaminants from spills and everyday use. Over time, these materials build up in the tiny grout lines, leaving them looking dark, dingy and unsightly. Regular cleaning is required to prevent this type of buildup.
If dirt and grime are allowed to build up in the grout lines, they become difficult to remove using regular household cleaners. The grout can become almost permanently discolored, negatively impacting the look of the floor tiles. Staying on top of dirt and grime buildup by cleaning grout regularly is the best way to keep it looking clean and uniform in color.
Avoid Discoloration and Staining
Not only does dirt build up in grout lines, but spills and certain materials like dyes, grease, and some foods and beverages can also lead to stubborn stains. Ketchup, wine, coffee, and juice are common culprits. The acidity levels in many foods and drinks can react with the minerals in grout and etch stains into the surface that become very difficult to remove.
The sooner these types of spills are cleaned, the less likely they are to leave a lasting stain. Letting stains set for longer than 24 hours drastically reduces your chances of being able to scrub them away. By making grout cleaning a part of your regular cleaning regimen, you can avoid stains setting in and discoloring your grout for good.
Reduce Mold and Mildew Growth
The moist, porous material of grout makes it prone to mold and mildew growth. Bathrooms, kitchens, basements and other damp areas are especially susceptible. Mold and mildew look unattractive and, if left unchecked, can damage the integrity of grout and surrounding tiles.
Regular cleaning keeps mold and mildew at bay by eliminating the damp environment they need to take hold. Once established, mold and mildew are difficult to fully remove from grout. So it’s critical to prevent them from growing in the first place through routine cleaning.
Maintain Appearance and Value of Tiles
Dingy, stained, or moldy grout detracts from the overall look of beautiful floor tiles, diminishing the aesthetic appeal. Clean grout lines make floor tiles look their best and preserves the intended design. Well-maintained tiles with clean grout also maintain their value and can help boost the value of your home.
Prospective home buyers are turned off by dingy, dirty grout lines, perceiving them as a sign of poor maintenance. Keeping your grout lines clean shows buyers you care for your home. It also ensures your flooring choices like high-end tile and stone look their best when it comes time to sell your home. Replacing tiles is much more expensive than regular grout cleaning, so take the time to keep your grout clean.
Read: How To Clean Floor Tile Grout Without Scrubbing
What are the Methods and Supplies use for cleaning Floor Tile Grout?
Grout can be cleaned effectively using common household ingredients and supplies. Here are some recommended cleaning solutions and tools:
1. Vinegar and Water Solution
Because vinegar is acidic, it helps break down residue and disinfect grout. Combine equal parts white vinegar and warm water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto grout lines, wait 5-10 minutes, then scrub with a brush.
The acetic acid in distilled white vinegar helps dissolve soap scum, hard water deposits, and other grimy buildup in grout. Its antimicrobial properties also kill off mold and bacteria. Letting the vinegar sit for several minutes gives it time to work before scrubbing.
2. Baking Soda Scrub
For tougher stains, make a paste with baking soda and just enough water to form a spreadable consistency. Apply the paste to stained or dirty grout with an old toothbrush or other scrub brush. Let sit briefly, then scrub. Rinse thoroughly.
The mild abrasiveness of baking soda helps lift staining and clean deeply. Combining it with water makes an effective scrubbing paste. Take care not to leave baking soda paste on grout too long before rinsing, as it can also strip away grout color.
3. Commercial Tile Cleaners
Look for cleaners made specifically for grout and tile. Apply to grout lines as directed on the product label. Let sit briefly, then scrub and rinse.
Tile cleaners contain detergents formulated to cut through grease, soap residue, hard water deposits and other grime on tile and grout. They come in both ready-to-use spray bottles and concentrates to mix with water. Use as directed to avoid stripping grout color.
4. Grout Brushes and Scrub Pads
Use these long-handled, small brushes to scrub grout once a cleaning solution has been applied and allowed to soak in. Scrub pads also work well.
Grout brushes have thin bristles and a narrow design perfect for getting deep into the crevices of grout lines. Look for brushes with sturdy bristles that can stand up to scrubbing. Scrub pads made from microfiber or nylon work well too.
5. Old Toothbrush
An old toothbrush works perfectly for scrubbing grout in tight areas. It allows you to exert the scrubbing power needed. The small head lets you focus cleaning action just on the grout. Any old toothbrushes will do, just be sure they have bristles with some stiffness. Soft-bristled toothbrushes won’t provide enough scrubbing ability.
6. Spray Bottle
Use this to apply vinegar solution or other cleaning liquids directly to grout lines. Look for a bottle with an angled nozzle to reach into crevices. A spray bottle allows you to completely saturate grout lines with cleaning solution without overapplying. Opt for a higher quality spray mechanism that provides a consistent spray pattern.
7. Bucket
Use to hold cleaning solutions as you work in larger areas. Also helpful for rinsing brushes as you clean. A five-gallon bucket with measurements on the side makes it easy to mix up larger batches of cleaning solution. It’s also helpful for dip rinsing scrub brushes as you work to prevent spreading dirt.
8. Grout Sealer
Applying a sealant after cleaning grout will help protect it from future stains and damage. Look for water-based sealers made for grout.
Sealing is one of the most important steps for keeping grout looking its best. Sealers fill in pores and create a protective barrier. Be sure to use a sealer recommended for grout, not a generic stone sealer. Carefully follow product directions for proper application and drying time. Reapply yearly.
Cleaning Grout Between Floor Tiles
With your chosen supplies on hand, follow these steps to thoroughly clean grout:
Step 1. Sweep or Vacuum Floor
- Use a broom or vacuum to remove any dirt or debris from the tile floor first. This allow cleaning solutions to penetrate the grout more effectively.
- Removing surface dirt before applying cleaners gives the cleaning agents direct access to stained or dirty areas.
- Use a soft brush attachment when vacuuming to avoid scratching grout.
Step 2. Mix Vinegar Solution
- Pour equal parts warm water and white vinegar into a spray bottle.
- Shake bottle to combine.
- It’s ideal to use warm or hot water when mixing the solution, as the heat boosts the effectiveness of the vinegar.
- Start with a 50/50 mix and adjust dilution as needed.
Step 3. Apply Solution and Let Sit
- Spray the vinegar solution liberally onto grout lines.
- Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes. This gives the vinegar time to break down dirt and stains.
- Fully saturating grout lines ensures the cleaning solution reaches down into all the crevices.
- Set a timer after spraying so you leave the vinegar on for the optimal dwell time before scrubbing.
Step 4. Scrub With Brush or Pad
- Use a grout brush, old toothbrush, or scrub pad to work the vinegar solution into the grout.
- Apply elbow grease to scrub away buildup.
Work in small sections for best results. Scrubbing accomplishes what simply letting the cleaning solution sit cannot. - The mechanical action helps lift away stubborn dirt and stains.
- Take care not to overdo scrubbing on grout that is already clean to avoid stripping out grout material.
Step 5. Rinse Thoroughly
- Use a bucket of clean water or damp mop to rinse away vinegar solution and dirt.
- Rinse and wring brush bristles frequently as you work.
- Thorough rinsing prevents residues.
- Take the time to rinse thoroughly until water runs clear.
- Leftover vinegar or dirt can create a haze if not completely rinsed.
- Change rinse water often to prevent reapplying grime.
Step 6. Allow to Dry Completely
- Give the grout several hours to dry fully before proceeding. Damp or wet grout will not absorb sealer properly. Drying overnight is ideal when time allows.
- Use fans pointed at the floor or a dehumidifier to speed drying after rinsing.
- Test grout with your hand to ensure no dampness before sealing.
Step 7. Apply Grout Sealer
- Once grout is clean and dry, apply a thin, even layer of water-based grout sealer using the applicator bottle or sponge provided.
- Allow to dry per product instructions.
- Carefully follow the manufacturer’s directions for application and drying time when sealing grout.
- Using too much sealer or sealing too soon can create a hazy residue.
Tips To Maintain Clean Grout
Follow these tips and best practices for keeping your grout lines clean:
Act Quickly When Grout Gets Dirty
Don’t delay cleaning spills or dirty grout lines. The longer the spill sits, the more difficult it will be to remove the stain. When you notice dirt or spills on the grout, make time as soon as possible to clean it. Leaving it risks permanent discoloration. Keep cleaning supplies handy so you can act right away.
Re-seal Grout Annually
Plan to reapply a grout sealant about once a year to maintain its protective properties. Sealers wear down over time, losing effectiveness. Mark your calendar annually as a reminder to reseal. More frequent sealing may be needed for heavily used flooring.
Use Gentle Cleaning Methods
Harsh chemical cleaners can damage grout. Stick to gentle solutions like vinegar and water. It may be tempting to break out harsh cleaners for stubborn stains, but strong chemicals often do more harm than good. They can etch or discolor grout and strip the protective seal. Gentle cleaners work better long-term.
Rinse Thoroughly After Cleaning
Always rinse away cleaning solutions completely to prevent residue buildup in grout pores. Any leftover cleaning agent or grime left on the grout can lead to hazing or accelerated re-soiling of the grout. Take the extra time to rinse thoroughly.
Allow Grout to Dry Completely
Never apply a sealant unless grout lines are completely dry or it won’t cure properly. Sealing damp grout can create a cloudy, whitish haze on the surface. It’s better to wait and seal another day than rush it on damp grout. Be patient for full drying.
How To prevent Grout From Getting Dirty
Regular cleaning keeps grout looking clean, but there are also steps you can take to prevent it from getting dirty and stained:
Use Grout Sealer
Sealing grout creates a protective barrier that prevents many types of stains from setting in. Reapply yearly. Keeping sealant maintained on your grout is the number one prevention tip. But remember sealing is not a substitute for regular cleaning of dirt buildup.
Sweep and Mop Regularly
Sweeping or vacuuming followed by damp mopping removes surface dirt before it can get lodged in grout pores. Make quick passes with a vacuum or broom a part of your daily routine to get rid of dust and debris that can grind into grout when walked on. Damp mopping once a week or more picks up any remaining dirt.
Address Spills Immediately
Don’t let spills sit. Clean up liquids, grease or other spills as soon as possible to avoid stains. Keep some old rags handy to wipe spills right away. Blot up as much as possible before wiping with a damp rag. Getting to spills in the first 5 minutes avoids lasting damage.
Install Grout Guards
These plastic strips install between tiles to cover exposed grout edges, preventing grime buildup. Great for kitchens. Grout guards seal off the part of grout lines most prone to collecting dirt along countertops, backsplashes, and around sinks. Guards just snap into place and sit slightly above the tile surface.
Use Mats at Entrances
Place absorbent, non-slip mats inside exterior doors and at transitions between spaces. These collect dirt and absorb moisture from shoes to prevent tracking onto tile. Make sure mats are large enough for people to take several steps across. Shake out and launder mats regularly.
Monitor Humidity Levels
Use exhaust fans, dehumidifiers and AC to keep indoor relative humidity below 50 percent. Mold and mildew thrive in damp conditions. Proper humidity control prevents musty smells and grout discoloration. Invest in a hygrometer to monitor humidity.
When to Call a Professional
While DIY cleaning can tackle most dirty or stained grout, there are some situations where calling in a professional grout cleaning service is advisable. Some of this incude:
Sealing Outdoor Grout
Outdoor grout requires more durable sealants. Hiring a pro ensures proper outdoor sealing. Outdoor grout sealers formulated for wet environments and freezing temperatures will outperform indoor/indoor products outside. Professionals also have equipment to rinse away dirt and fully dry outdoor grout first.
Heavy Buildup of Dirt and Grime
If grout buildup is thick after years of no cleaning, the deep cleaning methods of pros may be needed. Some long-neglected grout may need steam cleaning or pressure washing to blast away layers of embedded grime a household scrub brush cannot handle. Be sure pros use gentle pressure settings to avoid damaging grout.
Significant Grout Discoloration
Severely stained or discolored grout may need specialized treatments like bleach to restore original color. Bleaching products are stronger than household cleaners. Hire a qualified tile and grout cleaning company experienced with bleaching methods. They can assess if bleaching is appropriate and follow safety precautions.
Extensive Mold or Mildew Growth
Professionals have access to mold killing solutions that can treat severe mold or mildew issues. Chronic mold/mildew growth can penetrate deep into grout and require antimicrobial chemicals beyond vinegar to eradicate. Professionals also have equipment to fully dry out the flooring to prevent recurrence after cleaning up mold.
Grout Color Restoration
For grout that is badly discolored beyond basic cleaning, pros can regrout or apply color sealants to refresh the appearance. Completely regrouting is very tedious for DIYers. Hiring out color restoration is often more cost-effective.
Loose, Crumbling Grout
Loose areas that are crumbling need re-grouting. Professionals can remove damaged grout and properly re-grout for long-lasting repairs. Fixing crumbling grout keeps moisture from getting underneath tile and causing bigger issues.
Bottom Line
As you can see, cleaning and sealing the grout between your floor tiles is key to keeping them looking their best. And with this guide, you have the steps and tips to efficiently tackle this cleaning task.
Just remember to use gentle cleaners, rinse thoroughly, let grout dry completely, and reseal annually. Your freshly cleaned grout will make your floor tiles look like new again! Don’t neglect grout cleaning – it’s one of the best things you can do to maintain beautiful tile floors.