How to Clean Grout Mold & Dirt

Grout is used as filler in the spaces between tiles and assists in holding them together. Just like the tiles, the grout needs to be cleaned to remove dirt from it. Furthermore, it is not uncommon for grout to become molded. Moldy grout needs to be cleaned not only to make the grout look nicer, but also to remove the mold spores from the grout to prevent health hazards. Cleaning tile grout will give the entire tiled area a fresh, neat look.

Things You'll Need

• 1/2 Cup hydrogen peroxide
• Water
• Spray bottle
• Bleach
• Toothbrush
• 2 tablespoons tea tree oil
• Vinegar
• Baking soda
• Rags
• Steam cleaner (optional)
• Commercial grout cleaner

Instructions

1. Pour ½ cup of hydrogen peroxide and one cup of water into a spray bottle. Spray the grout thoroughly and allow the solution to penetrate the grout for a couple of minutes. You can also use a bleach solution, if you prefer, by mixing one part bleach to four parts water. Bleach is not recommended on colored grout.

2. Scrub the grout with an old toothbrush. A toothbrush is safe to use on the tile and can effectively clean the tight spaces of grout. Try using an electric toothbrush to make the job easier.

3. Make an herbal solution if you do not want to use peroxide or bleach. Mix cups of water and two tablespoons of tea tree oil into a spray bottle. Spray the grout with the solution and scrub with a toothbrush.

4. Dilute an equal amount of vinegar and water to make a solution to clean the grout. Spray on the grout and scrub with a toothbrush. You can also make a baking soda paste by adding a bit of water to baking soda and scrub that onto the grout. Wipe the surface clean with a wet rag that you used to scrub the dirt away. These products work best for dirty, stained grout rather than removing mold from grout.

5. Use a steam cleaner on the grout to remove stains and dirt. The pressure and heat will loosen up the dirt and stains. Simply wipe the dirt and stains away once the steam cleaner has loosened them up.

6. Apply a commercial grout cleaner to grout that has not responded to the other methods. Spray the product onto the grout and allow it to soak in for a few minutes. Scrub the grout with a stiff brush or toothbrush. You can purchase these products at most home improvement retailers. Choose a cleaner that is pH balanced. This will prevent the chemicals from eroding the grout over time.

References

• How to Clean Stuff
• Do It Yourself