It can be a difficult task to clean grout between tiles in tile flooring, bathroom tiles, or backsplashes. Keeping these areas looking new and grim-free may require both persistence and hard work. The best way to clean grout will depend on the type of grout, its location, and the degree of staining.

Stains in tile grout can develop in different ways. On bathroom tiles, mold and mildew may be the main cause of staining. On kitchen tile floors, grout stains may be the result of a combination of factors like heavy foot traffic, dirt, food spills, and mildew. In some cases, grout stains may also occur over time when the grout is either not sealed with a grout sealant or because the sealant has deteriorated. Still, there are ways to clean grout and revive those dingy tiles.

The best way to clean grout will depend, in part, on the degree of staining. For simple stains on bathroom tiles, floors, or backsplashes, it is best to first use mild cleaning solutions. Spraying a small section of the stained grout with a solution of equal parts of vinegar and water and then scrubbing in a circular pattern with a stiff brush can help clean grout. Likewise, forming a paste by adding water to enough baking soda and then using this mixture with a brush can also yield results. Afterward, it is important to completely rinse this area with water and then dry it.

Another way to clean grout is by use of household cleaners or a steam cleaner. This is especially helpful on tiled floors. Steam cleaners may help loosen set-in dirt when a topical cleaner cannot completely remove the stains.

For stubborn stains, some alternative ways to clean grout include using a commercial grout cleaner, oxygen bleach powder, hydrogen peroxide or chlorine bleach. When using a grout cleaner, it is wise to follow the instructions carefully to ensure good results. Of these products, oxygen bleach powder may be the safer and effective choice. Once the grout has been cleaned completely, a grout sealer for either floor or bathroom tiles may be used to keep grout clean in these areas.

Certain precautions should be observed when cleaning grout with oxygen bleach powder, hydrogen peroxide or chlorine bleach. First, test the grout cleaner on a small area of the grout, preferably in an out-of-the-way spot, to ensure that the cleaner will not do damage. Second, one should work in a well-ventilated area and wear gloves and masks.

For grout cleaning jobs that are too difficult or large for a homeowner to handle, hiring a professional grout cleaning service may be the best solution. A professional service can use special grout cleaning machines and steamers that can achieve effective results.