How to Clean Tub & Shower Grout

Grout plays a very important role in your bathroom. It bonds tub and shower tiles together and helps to keep water in its rightful place. According to ThisOldHouse.com, grout also gives tiles a finished look and prevents them from cracking and chipping. Over time, however, grout may become worn and stained, causing bathroom tiles to look old and dingy. Before you decide to retile or regrout your tub and shower, there is a way to get your grout and tiles looking great again.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Spray bottle
• 7 cups warm water
• 1/2 cup baking soda
• 1/3 cup ammonia
• 1/3 cup white vinegar
• Toothbrush
• Rag or sponge

1. Fill an empty spray bottle with 7 cups of warm water.

2. Pour the baking soda, ammonia and white vinegar into the spray bottle. Shake the bottle well to mix the ingredients.

3. Spray the cleaner onto the stained grout. Allow the cleaner to penetrate the grout for about 15 minutes.

4. Scrub the grout thoroughly with a hard-bristled toothbrush to remove the dirt and stains.

5. Wet a rag or sponge and wipe the grout to remove any of the remaining cleaner.

Tips & Warnings

• Sealing grout after tile is installed will keep your grout from becoming stained and discolored.
• Do not use bleach with this cleaner. Mixing bleach and ammonia together will produce toxic gases. These gases can cause coughing, shortness of breath, watery eyes, nausea, chest pain, wheezing and irritation to the throat, nose and eyes, according to the New Jersey Department of Health.

References

• Mrs. Clean: Cleaning Grout
• This Old House: All About Grout
• Lowes: Repairing Tile Grout

Resources

• New Jersey Department of Health: Dangerous Cleaning Products