How to Clean Mildew & Mold From Tile Grout

Clean mildew and mold from tile grout with items around your home.

Mold and mildew thrive in moist conditions such as tile grout in the kitchen and bathroom. Mold can irritate the lungs of people with allergies or asthma, and they can experience symptoms such as coughing and wheezing. Mildew and mold need to be removed from tile grout to keep the grout in good shape and to help reduce health risks. Mold often darkens the tile grout, and it will continue to grow if you do not take the time to remove it properly.

Things You'll Need

• Spray bottle Chlorine bleach Towel Commercial tile cleaner (optional) Stiff brush Baking soda Old toothbrush

Instructions

1. Open the windows in your home to allow the air to circulate. Turn on any ventilation systems in the home as well.

2. Fill a spray bottle half full with warm water. Fill the other half of the spray bottle with chlorine bleach. Shake the spray bottle to mix the water with the bleach.

3. Dry the tile with a towel. Spray the solution on an inconspicuous area and allow it to sit for 10 minutes to ensure that it will not change the color of the tile or grout. You might need to use a commercial tile cleaner if the bleach affects your tile.

4. Spray the solution onto the mold and mildew on the grout. Allow the solution to soak for 15 minutes. Scrub the grout with a stiff brush. If the mold remains, spray it again with the solution and allow it to soak more.

5. Rinse the grout and tile with warm water. If you still notice mold and mildew spots, combine an equal amount of baking soda with warm water. Apply the baking soda paste to the grout.

6. Scrub the paste into the grout with an old toothbrush. Rinse the area with warm water. Dry it thoroughly with a towel.

References

• GroutCleaning.com: Bathroom TIle Mold and Mildew Removal
• Mrs. Clean USA: Clean Grout and Remove Mildew Stains
• Green America: Ten Simply Ways to Clean Green