Ugh, those pesky grout stains on pretty porcelain tiles – they can drive a homeowner nuts, but with a little effort, you can get rid of them. Porcelain is a durable material, but the grout between tiles is more porous and prone to discoloration. Thankfully, there are several effective DIY methods for removing grout stains from porcelain tiles in your home.
In this article, we’ll look at what causes grout stains, supplies you’ll need, and step-by-step instructions for cleaning grout haze and dirt from porcelain tile surfaces. Let’s get started on the steps
What Makes Grout Stain on Porcelain Tiles?
Before we dig into solutions, let’s talk briefly about why grout stains happen in the first place. Grout is that cement-based material between tiles that fills in cracks and spaces to create a waterproof seal. Although it keeps moisture out, grout itself is porous and can easily absorb dirt, oils and grime over time.
Porcelain tile is an almost non-porous material that resists water and stains quite well. But that doesn’t stop discoloration from happening in the grout lines surrounding the tiles. Exposure to stuff like food, grease, soap scum, and minerals in water can cause the grout to become dingy and yellowed. Mold and mildew growth can also lead to grey and black grout stains. No fun!
Luckily, with a little scrubbing elbow grease and the right cleaning methods, you can break through those stubborn stains. The key is using products that are porcelain-tile safe. Let’s look at what you need…
Supplies Needed
Before getting started, assemble the following useful supplies:
- White vinegar – An effective and inexpensive cleaner for dissolving mineral deposits and soap scum. Avoid colored vinegars which can stain grout.
- Baking soda – Acts as a gentle abrasive and neutralizes acids for cleaning and whitening grout.
- Hydrogen peroxide – Helpful for removing mold and mildew stains.
- Grout brush or old toothbrush – For scrubbing grout lines. Look for one with sturdy bristles.
- Microfiber cloths – For wiping down tiles. Avoid abrasive pads or paper towels that could scratch.
- Bucket – For mixing cleaning solutions. Use one that’s dedicated just for cleaning.
- Rubber gloves – To protect your hands from harsh chemicals. Dishwashing gloves work well.
- Knee pads – Cushion your knees when scrubbing floors. Look for comfortable gel pads.
- Grout sealer – To apply after cleaning to protect grout from future stains. Use a water-based sealer made for porcelain tiles.
- Commercial tile cleaners – Use a gentle, porcelain-safe cleaner for more stubborn stains. Check that it’s safe for grout.
Once you assemble these handy supplies, you’ll be ready to break through those grout stains.
Pre-Cleaning Tests
Before grabbing your cleaning supplies, take a few wise precautions:
- Check the manufacturer’s care guidelines for your specific porcelain tiles. Some types may have special cleaning requirements.
- Test cleaners and scrubbing techniques in an inconspicuous area first, like inside a closet. Look for any damage to tiles or grout.
- Vacuum and sweep floors first to remove loose dirt. This prevents spreading grime during cleaning.
- Apply cleaners and scrub strains with consistent pressure. Don’t scrub some areas aggressively and others lightly.
- Work in small sections for easiest manageability and less mess.
- Keep children and pets away from cleaning chemicals. Ventilate the area well.
With these preparatory steps taken, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cleaning!
Cleaning Methods
When tackling grout stains on porcelain tiles, start with the least abrasive method first. Try a vinegar solution or baking soda paste before moving to stronger chemical cleaners. Here are some effective options:
Vinegar and Water Solution
The mild acidity in white vinegar can dissolve mineral deposits, soap scum, hard water stains, and other grime.
- For light grout cleaning, simply mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water.
- Apply the solution liberally to stained grout lines and let sit for 2-3 minutes.
- Use a grout brush or old toothbrush to scrub stains, applying moderate pressure.
- Wipe clean with a microfiber cloth and rinse thoroughly with warm water.
All in all, vinegar is safe for porcelain but avoid leaving it on too long.
Baking Soda and Water Paste
For a gentle abrasive cleanser, make a spreadable paste of baking soda and water. Start with a 3:1 ratio of baking soda to water and adjust thickness as needed. The tiny baking soda granules help scrub away dirt and stains.
- Use an old toothbrush to work the paste into discolored grout lines.
- Apply an even layer of paste over stained areas.
- Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before scrubbing, and rinse thoroughly when finished.
Baking soda also neutralizes vinegar, so you can first treat the area with a vinegar solution to dissolve buildup and follow with a baking soda scrub.
Hydrogen Peroxide and Baking Soda
If blackish mold or mildew is causing grey or black grout stains, attack it with hydrogen peroxide’s disinfecting bubbles. To do this:
- Combine 1 part hydrogen peroxide with 2 parts baking soda into a thin, spreadable paste.
- Apply paste thoroughly to discolored areas, allowing it to bubble and work its magic for 10 minutes.
- Use a stiff nylon-bristle brush and scrub up and down grout lines to lift stains.
- Rinse very thoroughly when done.
This combination can whiten and disinfect grout lines. Also, ensure good ventilation while using.
Commercial Tile Cleaners
For severe or very stubborn grout stains, a commercial tile cleaner formulated for porcelain may be needed. Look for options containing gentle acids like phosphoric acid or gluconic acid. Avoid harsh bleach, alkaline, or acidic cleaners which can damage grout and react with porcelain.
Carefully follow product instructions, and test first in an inconspicuous area.
- Apply cleaner to grout lines, allowing it to sit briefly.
- Then, use a grout brush or toothbrush to scrub.
- Rinse thoroughly with water when finished, and wipe tiles down with a microfiber cloth.
Steam Cleaners
For stained grout on floors or larger areas, a steam cleaner can be highly effective. The pressurized steam helps blast away grime lodged deep in grout pores.
- Use the steam cleaner’s bristle attachment to loosen the dirt.
- Avoid prolonged direct contact with the steam on porcelain tiles as excessive heat could damage the surface.
- Thoroughly vacuum dirty water with a wet/dry vac after steaming.
Prevention Tips
Once you’ve conquered those nasty grout stains, you need to take steps to prevent new ones from forming. And you can do this using the following prevention tips.
Seal Grout Lines
Applying a penetrating grout sealer can protect porous grout from future stains. Sealers repel water, oil, and dirt from absorbing into grout. Look for water-based sealers made for porcelain tiles. Avoid flammable solvent-based products. Follow application directions carefully. Reapply yearly or as needed to maintain the water-resistant barrier.
Clean Spills Quickly
Don’t give stains a chance to set. Wipe up food, grease or soap spills as soon as possible. Use an absorbent microfiber cloth and warm, clean water. The quicker you act, the easier the grout will be to clean.
Use Grout Release Before Grouting
Grout haze and film can form on porcelain tile edges when grouting. Wipe or brush on a grout release product prior to grouting to prevent grout from adhering. This makes excess easier to remove. Apply release agent evenly and avoid getting it on tile faces.
Routine Maintenance
Regularly sweep and mop porcelain floors. Use a pH-neutral cleaner meant for porcelain. Acidic cleaners can degrade grout over time. Check and re-seal grout every 1-2 years. Promptly clean up spills before they become stains.
When to Call a Professional
In certain circumstances, it’s best to call in a professional tile cleaning service to tackle grout stains on porcelain tiles. Somes of those scenarios include:
Severe Staining or Damage
If stains have penetrated deep into the grout or caused etching, pits, or cracks in the porcelain, a professional has the right equipment and expertise for thorough cleaning and resurfacing. They can assess if tiles need replacement.
Grout Haze
A thick film of hardened grout left on the surface of porcelain tiles, known as grout haze, can be challenging to remove. Tile professionals have heavy-duty tools like power washers and strong chemical removers to eliminate the stubborn haze.
Re-Grouting Needed
If the stained grout is crumbling or missing in areas, a pro can remove all old grout and re-grout joints for a consistent appearance. They’ll match the color and application technique of your existing grout lines.
Large Jobs
For major tile installations like floors, walls, or countertops, it’s often wise to hire a professional service for cleaning and maintenance. Their powerful equipment can efficiently tackle large areas and significantly stubborn stains.
For routine cleaning, use these DIY methods to successfully remove typical grout stains from your porcelain tiles. But if stains persist or more extensive repairs are needed, don’t hesitate to call a tile professional for help.
Bottom Line
At the end of the day, with the right mix of techniques, a little effort and prompt attention, you can keep your porcelain tiles and grout looking dang good. Don’t let grout stains get you down! Bust out that toothbrush, mix up some stain-fighting potions, and get to tackling those grout gremlins.
And remember, it’s OK to call on the expert for the most severe grout stain dilemmas. With a little diligent scrubbing and the methods in this article, you’ll have those porcelain tiles and grout lines looking like new again.