How to Remove Grout Stains From Tile: A Guide for Homeowners

Grout stains on your beautiful tiled surfaces can be frustrating and unsightly. Over time, dirt, mold, and mildew can accumulate in the grout lines, causing discoloration and making your tiles look less appealing.

However, there’s no need to worry; you can restore the freshness of your tiled areas with some simple techniques for removing grout stains. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to how to remove grout stains from tile effectively and have them looking brand new again.

Gather Your Supplies

Before you start the grout stain removal process, gather the necessary supplies. You don’t need all the supplies mentioned below, but having them will ensure you don’t have to worry about your tiles getting grimy soon after cleaning them.

Rubber gloves and safety goggles to protect your skin and eyes from chemicals
Grout cleaner: Commercial grout cleaner or a homemade solution
Old toothbrush or grout brush: For scrubbing the grout lines
Warm water: For rinsing
Bucket: To mix your cleaning solution or to collect dirty water
White vinegar: An alternative to grout cleaner
Baking soda: Useful for creating a DIY grout-cleaning paste
Hydrogen peroxide: An effective stain remover
A plastic scraper or putty knife: For gently scraping off stubborn stains
Clean, dry cloth or paper towels: To wipe off excess moisture

Choose Your Cleaning Solution

You can choose between commercial grout cleaners or opt for a homemade solution. Commercial cleaners are readily available at most home improvement stores and are often designed to tackle tough grout stains effectively.

If you prefer a homemade solution, consider mixing equal parts of white vinegar and water. Alternatively, create a thick paste by mixing baking soda with water. Both vinegar and baking soda are natural and safe alternatives for grout cleaning.

Apply the Cleaning Solution

Once you’ve chosen your cleaning solution, apply it to the stained grout lines. Use a spray bottle for liquid solutions, or for the baking soda paste, simply spread it along the grout lines. Ensure that the solution covers the stained areas completely.

Scrub the Grout Lines

Allow the cleaning solution to sit for a few minutes to penetrate and loosen the grout stains. Next, use an old toothbrush, a grout brush, or a stiff-bristle brush to scrub the grout lines vigorously.

If you’re dealing with particularly stubborn stains, a plastic scraper or putty knife can be used to gently scrape away the residue.

Rinse With Warm Water

After scrubbing, rinse the grout lines with warm water to remove the cleaning solution and dislodged stains. Use a clean cloth or paper towels to wipe off excess moisture.

Apply Hydrogen Peroxide

For more stubborn grout stains, consider applying hydrogen peroxide directly to the stained areas. Allow it to sit for a few minutes, and then scrub it with a brush. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and dry thoroughly afterward.