How to Make Homemade Ceramic Tile Grout Cleaner

Grout can become discolored from mold and mildew buildup.

You may have noticed the grout in between your ceramic tiles in your bathroom or kitchen has become discolored over time and no amount of scrubbing seems to return the grout to its original color. Martha Stewart explains that grout has microscopic pores that trap dirt and attract mold and mildew. Cleaning the grout in between your ceramic tile can prove to be challenging without the proper cleansing agents. You make your own grout cleaner at home using a few environmentally friendly products that are biodegradable and safe for use around children and pets.

Things You'll Need

• 1/2 cup baking soda
• 1/3 cup ammonia
• 3 cup warm water
• Small funnel
• Spray bottle with nozzle
• Black permanent marker

Instructions

1. Unscrew the nozzle from the spray bottle and set aside.

2. Place the funnel in the neck of the spray bottle opening.

3. Pour 1/2 cup dry baking soda into the funnel.

4. Pour 1/3 cup of ammonia into the funnel.

5. Pour 3 cups of warm water into the funnel.

6. Replace nozzle onto the spray bottle and screw tightly shut.

7. Swirl the spray bottle around to mix the ingredients for at least 60 seconds or until well combined. Label the spray bottle with "Grout Cleaner" using the black permanent marker.

Tips & Warnings

• Allow the grout cleaner spray to sit on the grout for several minutes before wiping up with a sponge. If desired, use a grout scrubbing tool to gently scrub the grout and loosen mold and mildew.

• Good Housekeeping recommends that after you clean your grout thoroughly, you apply sealer to the grout to prevent further contamination and stains.

• Grout can become brittle and dry out over time, causing chunks of grout to come loose from in between the ceramic tiles. When this happens, it is time to re-grout.

• Always wear rubber gloves while cleaning to prevent drying or damaging your skin.

• Avoid leaning over the spray bottle while filling it with the ingredients, as ammonia has a pungent odor that can cause discomfort if inhaled.

References

• Martha Stewart Online: Surface Appeal
• Good Housekeeping Online: Cleaning Tinted-Grout