July 3, 2019

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How to clean tile grout naturally and remove stubborn stains using common household products and a bit of elbow grease.

When was the last time you actually recognised your bathroom? What was once a distinguished mosaic tile feature wall has now become a blend of browns. When it comes to DIY bathroom renovations, one of the most affordable tasks you can do to revive your worn out bathroom space is by cleaning the tile grout. 

Notice how we didn’t say easy? You’ll definitely be getting down on all fours and giving it a good scrub, however, cleaning your grout can be the most rewarding, and we’re going to tell you exactly how to do so and what you’re going to need.

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Vinegar
  • Spray bottle
  • Baking soda
  • Water
  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • Mixing bowl
  • Old toothbrush or grout brush
  • Grout sealer
  • Cloth

How to remove tough grout stains

Wipe down the area using a cloth and some hot water to remove any surface dirt and grime. Next, mix a 50/50 vinegar and water solution into your spray bottle and begin applying the mixture onto the grout. Let it sit for around five minutes or so, this will help break down tougher stains. Then, using your old toothbrush or grout brush, start scrubbing in a circular motion to remove any stains and grime build up. Once you are satisfied, wipe away the dirt using a clean cloth and warm water.

If your tiles are made from natural stone, we recommend staying away from this cleaning solution as vinegar can be quite damaging.

How to clean stubborn grout stains

For more stubborn stains, mix baking soda and water into your mixing bowl to create a paste. Apply the paste onto the grout lines and then spray the paste with the vinegar solution mentioned above, this will cause the paste to bubble and foam. Once the mixture has stopped foaming, get your trusty old toothbrush out and start scrubbing, you should notice the stains disappearing. Rinse with plain water to remove the leftover dirty solution.

How to remove deeply embedded grout stains

This is where we’ll need to introduce hydrogen peroxide into the baking soda paste mentioned above. Just as you would with a stubborn stain, apply the paste to the grout and allow to sit for around five minutes, before washing off with warm water.

How to remove the most extreme of grout stains

We are going to be a little cheeky here and add a splash of bleach into the baking soda paste. Try mixing two-parts of baking soda and one-part of bleach into your mixing bowl till it becomes a paste. Apply the paste to the dirty grout or stained area and wait around five minutes. Using your old toothbrush or grout brush, give it a good scrub and allow it to sit for another five minutes. Rinse off with warm water and allow it to dry — remember that grout will appear darker when wet.

 

How to keep your tile grout clean

Let’s face it, no one likes cleaning their tile grout and if you could avoid having to do so life would be amazing. It just so happens you can. The best way to save yourself from this dreaded grouting experience is to spray down and wipe your tiles with a 50/50 vinegar and water solution once a week. Always vacuum first before mopping your tiles to remove any loose bits of dirt. Wipe down your grout with alcohol to keep the mould and mildew at bay. After cleaning your grout, you can opt to apply a grout sealer to preserve all your hard work.

If all fails… Why not laying new bathroom tiles? 

If you tried all the solutions above and still can’t see the difference, it might be time to consider renovating the bathroom flooring. Jupps has a wide range of bathroom tiles and we can help you pick the right one. However, traditional tiles aren’t the only option anymore, and we have also compiled a list of other bathroom flooring materials now commonly used in Australian homes. 

When you’re ready to discuss your options, visit one of our WA stores or contact us.