How to Clean Brown Tile Grout

Clean brown tile grout with chlorine bleach and a brush.

Brown tile grout looks dirty and unattractive. Tile floors, shower walls, and kitchen backsplashes exposed to wear and tear, water or food residue need regular cleaning. Lighten and brighten grout with chlorine bleach and water. The bleach disinfects and whitens the grout, resulting in a clean surface and newer-looking tile. Maintain this clean look by sealing the grout yearly.

Things You'll Need

• Bucket
• Bleach
• Rubber gloves
• Protective eyewear
• Toothbrush or grout brush
• Cup (optional)
• Cloths

Instructions

1. Fill a bucket with 1 gallon water and 3/4 cup bleach. Put on the rubber gloves and protective eyewear.

2. Dip a brush into the solution and apply it to the grout between each tile. Work from the top to the bottom, dipping the brush when it begins to dry. Thoroughly wet all of the grout, and let the bleach sit for approximately 10 minutes.

3. Dip the brush into the bleach and scrub over all of the grout. Concentrate on stains and the dirtiest areas.

4. Rinse the grout with the shower head, a cloth dampened with water, or a cup filled with water.

5. Dry the tile and grout with a clean cloth. Grout won't appear lighter until it fully dries.

Tips & Warnings

• Oxygen bleach can be substituted for chlorine bleach in the same proportion, but make sure to mix the solution well with a spoon and let it fully dissolve before cleaning.

References

• "Good Housekeeping": Removing Grout Stains
• BrightCleaning: Grout Cleaning Tips

Resources

• Ask the Builder: Tile Grout Sealing/Caulking