How To Clean Grout Naturally
Posted on: 8 September 2018
Even if you clean your bathroom tub and shower regularly using effective techniques and products, the grout between tiles and around edges can still look less-than-fresh. The grout around your kitchen sink and tiled backsplash is also at risk of looking grimy and dirty no matter how well you scrub it down after dinner.
Because grout is a naturally porous material, it easily stains and shows blemishes. Over time and with normal wear and tear, the grout between kitchen and bathroom tiles and around bath tubs and showers can get discolored from grime, soap scum, mold and mildew.
When it comes time to deep-clean the bathroom or kitchen, your everyday cleaners may not be strong enough to tackle the stubborn spots, leaving you with dark or yellowed grout, which is supposed to be a bright white color. You may get frustrated and decide to replace the grout, which can cost you valuable time and money.
The good news is that you can restore the dirty grout to its fresh, white color using all-natural products that you most likely already own. You don't have to use harsh chemicals, such a bleach or ammonia, to get the job done.
Here are some tips for cleaning grout naturally:
1. Use Vinegar
If you can get past its strong smell, distilled white vinegar is one of the best defenses against grimy grout. It naturally disinfects, kills mold and mildew, and loosens and removes debris. Fill a spray bottle with half water and half vinegar, and saturate the dirty grout.
Allow the vinegar to work its magic for up to 10 minutes, and then work it into the grout using a soft brush. Rinse with warm water and repeat the process as necessary.
2. Call on Baking Soda
Another common household product known for its whitening and brightening properties is baking soda. If you've tried using vinegar and aren't pleased with the results, make a thick paste with baking soda and water, and apply it to the grout with a soft brush or sponge. You can also add a few drops of a gentle liquid dish soap for extra cleaning power.
Rinse the mixture off with warm water after allowing it to rest on the grout for a few minutes. If the grout still isn't white enough, you can pour a bit of hydrogen peroxide into the paste to help cut through and lift off the dark debris.
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