How to Make Your Grout Shine Again

To clean tile grout effectively, you’ll need to understand that it’s a bit of a delicate art. Grout, especially in bathrooms and kitchens, can get stained with dirt, mold, and mildew over time, making it look grimy and aged. Let’s start with the basics—tile grout is porous, meaning it absorbs moisture and dirt like a sponge, which makes cleaning a challenge.

Here’s the short version of how to tackle it:

1. Basic Cleaning: A mixture of baking soda and water works wonders. Make a paste, apply it to the grout lines, let it sit for 10-15 minutes, and scrub with a brush. For regular cleaning, a mop or sponge with warm soapy water will keep things fresh.



2. For Tough Stains: For more stubborn stains, bleach or hydrogen peroxide can help, but be cautious with colored grout—bleach might cause discoloration. Test in a small area first.
3. Dealing with Mold and Mildew: A vinegar-water solution (50/50) is effective against mold. Let it sit, then scrub away. If mold persists, you might need a stronger cleaner, like a commercial mold remover, but always use it with proper ventilation and gloves.



4. Sealing Grout: After cleaning, seal your grout. Sealing creates a barrier that helps prevent dirt and moisture from seeping in, which makes future cleaning easier. You can buy grout sealants at most hardware stores.

Important note: Overuse of harsh chemicals can degrade the grout over time, so always follow instructions and avoid excessive scrubbing. If the grout’s already cracked or severely discolored, it might be time to consult a professional.

Now, let’s get to the opinions from a few people:

• Julia, 37, USA: “I use a baking soda paste for cleaning, and it works pretty well. I always seal my grout too, otherwise, I’d be cleaning it every few months.”
• Carlos, 55, Mexico: “I’ve found that vinegar does the trick for most stains, but it’s not a miracle worker for deep mold. I had to get professional help once.”



• Anya, 28, Russia: “My apartment had a lot of mold. I used a commercial cleaner, but next time, I’ll definitely go for a natural solution first.”
• Tariq, 48, UAE: “I’ve been maintaining my grout with steam cleaning. It’s effective, but takes a little longer. At least no chemicals are involved!”

Remember, cleaning grout is a bit of a maintenance game—consistency is key!