Hi, I’m Mark Thompson. If there’s one cleaning task that used to frustrate me, it was grout. No matter how clean my floors were, dirty grout lines made everything look grimy. After testing different DIY grout cleaning methods, I’ve found a few that work. If you’re tired of dull, stained grout, this guide will help you bring it back to life with simple, affordable solutions.
Why Grout Gets So Dirty
Grout is porous, absorbing dirt, grease, and moisture over time. Whether it’s in your bathroom, kitchen, or tiled floors, grout attracts stains from:
- Soap scum and mold in showers.
- Spills and food stains in kitchens.
- Dirt and foot traffic in high-use areas.
The good news is that grout restoration doesn’t require expensive cleaners or professional services. With a few common household ingredients, your grout will look fresh again.
DIY Grout Cleaning Methods That Work
1. Baking Soda & Vinegar – The Classic Combo
This is the go-to approach for a reason—it’s efficient and uses things most people already have at home.
What You’ll Need:
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Warm water
- A stiff-bristle brush or an old toothbrush
How to Do It:
- Dust baking soda straight on the grout lines.
- Over the baking soda, spray white vinegar; let it bubble for five to ten minutes.
- Scrub with a stiff-bristle brush.
- Rinse with warm water and wipe clean.
Tip: If you have deep stains, leave the baking soda and vinegar mixture on for 10 minutes before scrubbing.
2. Hydrogen Peroxide & Baking Soda – Heavy-Duty Stain Remover
For tougher stains, hydrogen peroxide works wonders.
What You’ll Need:
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Baking soda
- Dish soap (optional for extra grease-cutting power)
- A scrubbing brush
How to Do It:
- Mix 1/2 cup baking soda with 1/4 cup hydrogen peroxide.
- Add a few drops of dish soap if dealing with greasy grout.
- Apply the paste to grout lines and let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Scrub and rinse with warm water.
This method is great for white or light-colored grout, as hydrogen peroxide helps brighten and lift stains.
3. Steam Cleaning – No Chemicals Needed
A steam cleaner is an excellent option if you prefer a chemical-free approach.
What You’ll Need:
- A steam cleaner with a grout brush attachment
How to Do It:
- Fill the steam cleaner with water and let it heat up.
- Hold the nozzle close to the grout lines and move slowly.
- Use the brush attachment to loosen stubborn dirt.
- Use a fresh cloth to wipe away the leftovers.
Steam cleaning removes stains and kills bacteria and mold, making it ideal for bathrooms and kitchens.
4. Lemon Juice & Baking Soda – Natural Brightener
Lemon juice is naturally acidic and helps dissolve grime while leaving behind a fresh scent.
What You’ll Need:
- Fresh lemon juice
- Baking soda
- A scrubbing brush
How to Do It:
- For a thick paste, mix baking soda with enough lemon juice.
- Apply to grout lines and let it sit for 10 minutes.
- Scrub and rinse with warm water.
Lemon juice also helps fight mold and mildew, making it perfect for shower tiles.
How to Keep Grout Clean for Longer
Once you’ve put in the effort to clean your grout, maintaining it is key. Here are some easy ways to keep it looking fresh:
- Seal Your Grout – Applying a grout sealer every 6-12 months prevents stains from soaking in.
- Wipe Down Tiles After Use – A quick wipe after showers or cooking reduces moisture and grime buildup.
- Use a Mild Cleaner Weekly – A simple mix of water and a few drops of dish soap keeps the grout fresh.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals – Bleach can weaken grout over time, causing it to crack or crumble.
When to Call a Professional
DIY grout cleaning usually works, but sometimes, professional help is needed. Consider calling a pro if:
- Your grout is severely discolored and won’t clean up.
- There’s visible mold that keeps returning.
- The grout is crumbling and needs reapplication.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning grout doesn’t have to be frustrating or expensive. With simple DIY methods, you can bring back the shine and freshness of your tiled surfaces. Whether you use baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, or a steam cleaner, keeping grout clean is all about consistency.
Have you tried any of these methods? In the comments, let me know what worked for you or if you have any grout-cleaning hacks to share!