How to Clean Grout on Tile Floors: Step-by-Step Guide

A practical, DIY-friendly guide to cleaning grout on tile floors, covering pretreatment, scrubbing, rinsing, and sealing to restore color and protect against future stains.

Grout Maintenance Team

January 22, 2026·4 min read

Grout Tile Cleaning Grout Maintenance How To Clean Grout

Grout Cleaning Basics - Grout Maintenance — Photo by royguisingervia Pixabay

Quick AnswerSteps

You will learn a proven, step-by-step method to clean grout on tile floors, including pretreatment, scrubbing, rinsing, and sealing. Gather a grout brush, pH-neutral cleaner, baking soda for tough stains, and a sealing option if you want long-lasting results. This approach works on common ceramic and porcelain tiles and is safe for DIY use.

Assess grout condition and tile types

According to Grout Maintenance, a successful grout cleaning project starts with a quick condition check. Examine the grout lines for color change, cracks, or crumbling sections. Look for signs of mold, mildew, or efflorescence, and note any areas with heavy staining. Next, identify your tile type (ceramic or porcelain) because cleaners interact differently with glazes and grout porosity. If you have sealed grout, check the existing sealant’s integrity by applying a small amount of cleaner to a hidden patch and observing how the grout responds. This initial assessment helps you tailor your approach and avoid over-wetting delicate substrates. A cautious patch test is the best way to prevent color fading or grout damage over the course of the project.

Gather the right tools and cleaners

Before you start, assemble a basic grout cleaning kit. You’ll need a stiff nylon grout brush or an old toothbrush for tight lines, a spray bottle for cleaners, a bucket for rinsing, and microfiber cloths for drying. Use a

Understand grout types and cleaning approaches

Different grout types require different tactics. Cementitious grout is porous and benefits from gentle cleaners and slow, thorough brushing. Epoxy grout is more stain-resistant but can be damaged by acidic products, so stick to milder cleaners. Always check a colorfast test patch when using anything new, especially on colored or dark grout. If you’re unsure whether your grout is cementitious or epoxy, start with a small, inconspicuous area and observe how it reacts. Grout Maintenance notes that knowing your grout type helps you select the safest, most effective cleaner and prevents discoloration or material wear.

Pretreat stained grout with baking soda paste

For common staining, mix baking soda with a small amount of water to form a paste. Apply the paste to discolored grout lines and let it sit for 5–10 minutes to loosen embedded grime. Then, use a stiff brush to scrub in a steady, circular motion along each grout line—avoid aggressive scrubbing that could wear away cementitious grout. Baking soda is mild and abrasive enough to lift grime without scratching tile finishes. If stains persist, a hydrogen peroxide solution can be applied to the paste and left to dwell briefly before scrubbing again.

Use hydrogen peroxide for stubborn stains

Hydrogen peroxide (3%) is a practical option for stubborn gray or yellow grout stains, especially on light colors. Apply a small amount to the grout and let it bubble for a few minutes before scrubbing. Rinse with clean water and wipe dry to prevent dulling. Always test in a hidden area first to ensure no color loss, especially on color-sealed grout. This step can dramatically improve grout brightness without the need for harsh chemicals.

Scrub technique: brush strokes, dwell time, and avoiding damage

Use a deliberate, angled scrubbing motion: hold the brush at about 45 degrees and push along the grout line to lift dirt without grinding into the grout edges. Work in small sections to maintain moisture balance and prevent grout from drying out mid-cleaning. Allow the cleaner to dwell briefly in tough spots—typically 3–5 minutes—before scrubbing again. Rinse the area frequently to prevent re-depositing grime and inspect your progress often to avoid over-scrubbing delicate grout.

Rinse, dry, and evaluate results

After scrubbing, rinse with plenty of clean water to remove all cleaner residue. Wipe the tiles dry with microfiber cloths and let grout air-dry completely before evaluating color restoration. If you still see dark lines after drying, repeat the pretreatment and scrubbing steps on the affected sections. Successful grout cleaning should reveal even color and no sticky residue. Grout Maintenance highlights that patience during the rinse and dry phase is essential for consistent results across larger floor areas.

Seal grout for long-term protection

Sealing is optional but highly recommended for high-traffic floors or porous grout. Wait until grout is completely dry—usually 24–72 hours, depending on humidity—before applying a penetrating grout sealer. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and curing times, applying evenly with a clean applicator to avoid pooling. Sealing helps repel stains and makes future maintenance easier. If you’re unsure, conduct a patch test on a small area to confirm sealer compatibility with your grout color and tile surface.

Maintenance tips to keep grout clean longer and prevent mold

To extend cleaning results, wipe spills promptly, vacuum or sweep to prevent grit from grinding into grout, and perform a light clean every few weeks with a

Tools & Materials

Grout brush (stiff nylon)(3-inch head; ideal for cementitious grout)
Old toothbrush(For tight corners and grout channels)
Spray bottle(Pour cleaner and water mixture)
Bucket(Rinsing and soaking rags)
pH-neutral tile cleaner(Safe for grout and tile finishes)
Baking soda(Make paste for stains)
Hydrogen peroxide (3%)(Use for tough stains on white/gray grout (test patch first))
Vinegar (optional)(For spot cleaning on non-porous grout only; avoid on color-sealed grout)
Microfiber cloths(For drying and buffing)
Grout sealer(Penetrating sealer for protection)

Steps

Estimated time: Active time: 60-90 minutes; total project time: 2-4 hours including drying.

1
Prep the area and protect surfaces
Clear the room and remove loose debris from the floor. Dry the floor with a microfiber cloth before applying cleaner to minimize dilution and rinse water spreading. Place towels along edges to protect baseboards and cabinets from splashes.
Tip: Use a damp microfiber cloth to catch stray dust before applying cleaners.
2
Apply cleaner and pre-treat grout
Mist a pH-neutral cleaner along the grout lines and let it sit for a few minutes to loosen embedded grime. Do not oversaturate the floor; keep the solution confined to grout lines to avoid staining adjacent tiles.
Tip: Focus on the dirtiest zones first to keep the process efficient.
3
Scrub grout lines thoroughly
Scrub with the stiff brush using short, vertical and horizontal motions to lift dirt from the grout pores. Work in small sections, and apply additional cleaner if the paste dries. Avoid scrubbing tiles themselves to preserve glaze.
Tip: Maintain a steady pace to prevent grout from feeling dry or stiff.
4
Treat stubborn stains with baking soda paste
Apply a baking soda and water paste to the stubborn areas and let it dwell 5–10 minutes. Scrub again, focusing on dark spots, then rinse with clean water.
Tip: Do not let paste dry completely, or it becomes harder to remove.
5
Use hydrogen peroxide for tough stains
On light grout, gently apply 3% hydrogen peroxide and allow it to bubble for a few minutes before scrubbing. Rinse thoroughly.
Tip: Always patch-test first to avoid color changes.
6
Rinse and dry the area
Rinse with plenty of clean water until nothing soapy remains. Wipe with microfiber towels until completely dry to avoid new dirt sticking to damp grout.
Tip: Inspect for any residue that might cause dull spots on tile glaze.
7
Seal grout (optional but recommended)
Wait for full drying, then apply a penetrating grout sealer following the product instructions. Reapply after the recommended cure time for best protection.
Tip: Seal in a well-ventilated area and avoid heavy foot traffic during cure.

Pro Tip: Always test cleaners on a hidden patch first to prevent color change.

Warning: Do not mix chlorine bleach with ammonia or vinegar; toxic fumes can form.

Note: Ventilate the area and wear gloves; cleaners can irritate skin and eyes.

Got Questions?

How often should I clean grout on tile floors?

For most homes, a light clean every 2–4 weeks helps prevent buildup. A deeper clean every 3–6 months keeps grout color bright and reduces mold risk, especially in bathrooms. Adjust based on traffic and humidity.

Can I use vinegar or bleach to clean grout?

Vinegar is not ideal for all grout types and can degrade some cementitious grout finishes. Bleach can whiten grout but may damage colored grout or affect sealants. Always test first and prefer a pH-neutral cleaner for regular maintenance.

Is hydrogen peroxide safe on colored grout?

Hydrogen peroxide is generally safe for many light-colored grouts when used at 3%. Always patch-test and rinse well to prevent discoloration. Do not rely on it for epoxy grout without checking the manufacturer’s guidance.

What’s the difference between cleaning and sealing grout?

Cleaning removes embedded dirt and restores color; sealing adds a protective layer that repels water and stains. Sealing is especially beneficial on porous cementitious grout and in high-moisture areas.

How long does sealing grout take to dry?

Drying time depends on the product and environment but plan for several hours of curing before light traffic. Full cure may take up to 24–48 hours depending on humidity and ventilation.

What should I do if mold returns after cleaning?

If mold recurs, re-evaluate moisture levels and ventilation. Clean with a mold-safe cleaner and consider resealing after the area has dried completely. Persistent mold may require professional assessment.