How to Seal Grout on Bathroom Tile

Seal bathroom grout to prevent mold and mildew.

Sealing the grout in bathroom tiles prevents staining and keeps moisture from penetrating the tile, causing mold and mildew. Sealing grout is a recurring maintenance task that should be performed every few years or by following the maintenance time frame recommended by the sealant manufacturer. To avoid the need to seal grout, consider using an epoxy-based grout product. Most will not require or advise a sealer to be applied.

Things You'll Need

• Water-based grout sealer
• Clean rags
• Small artists paintbrush
• Oxygen cleaner (optional)

Instructions

1. Choose a penetrating, nonpigmented, water-based sealer for bathroom tile grout. This type of sealer soaks into the porous grout and reduces the possibility that the grout will stain from contact with other liquids and materials used in the bathroom.

2. Newly applied grout should be allowed to cure for at least 48 hours before cleaning and applying a sealer. Older tile installations should be cleaned and allowed to dry for 48 hours before applying the sealant. Oxygen cleaners are an excellent way to remove grime, oil and wax from the grout, which can interfere with the proper application of the sealant.

3. Apply the sealant to the grout according to the manufacturer's instructions. Use a small artist's paintbrush or other tool recommended by the manufacturer to apply the sealant. Begin in a far corner and work toward the entry door, making sure not to disturb the sealant after it is applied.

4. Use a clean rag to remove any sealant that finds its way onto the tile. Sealant can dry very quickly and leave a haze or film on the tile that is extremely difficult, if not impossible, to remove in most cases. Wipe up spills and over-application quickly to prevent the haze from forming.

Tips & Warnings

• Membrane-forming sealant products will not adhere to a glazed tile. Use these for grouting unglazed tiles only.

• Applying grout sealant may require a lot of kneeling and awkward positions. Make sure your knees are protected by wearing knee pads.

• Read the manufacturer's directions thoroughly and follow them completely when applying tile sealant. Do not make assumptions about how the sealing product needs to be applied. Assumptions could cause the need to replace the grout.

References

• "Black & Decker Complete Guide To Dream Bathrooms"; Ruth Strother; 2008
• Speed Cleaning: Tips, Tricks and Strategies; Jeff Campbell, Clean Team; 2005