I Need Help With Cleaning & Sealing Tile Grout

Grout can get grimy and attract mold over time.

When installing tile floors, walls, ceilings, counters or other installations, most contractors or builders will use grout to fill in the spaces between tiles. The often white, sticky substance effectively holds tiles together and protects them from moisture leaks and other damage. But in common tiled areas, such as bathrooms and kitchens, grout can easily develop a layer of mold and dirt that can prove unsightly and dangerous. Thoroughly cleaning the grout and sealing it against moisture can help keep your home looking its best and protect family members from harmful mold buildup.

Things You'll Need

• Broom or brush
• Water
• Hydrogen peroxide
• Spray bottle
• Toothbrush or soft brush
• Silicone sealant
• Paintbrush

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Instructions

1. Sweep your tiles and grout with a broom or hand-held brush to remove surface dirt and dust, which can get in the way of your primary cleaning solution.

2. Mix one cup of warm water and ½ cup of hydrogen peroxide into a spray bottle. Swirl the mixture around to mix thoroughly.

3. Spray the water/peroxide cleaning solution onto your grout. Work in small areas so the cleaner does not have time to dry on the surface.

4. Scrub at mold and dirt stains with a toothbrush or a soft-bristle scrub brush. Do not use abrasive cleaners or stiff-bristle brushes, as these may scratch tiles. Continue to spray and scrub until the grout is completely clean.

5. Rinse the surface with clean warm water to remove residual cleaning solution. Allow 48 hours for the grout to dry completely before applying sealant. Applying sealant to wet grout can ruin the sealant's bond.

6. Apply a thin layer of grout or silicone sealant onto grouted areas with a small paintbrush. This sealant, available at hardware and home improvement stores, will fill in any pores or cracks in the grout and prevent mold growth. Follow specific product instructions regarding drying time and apply a second coat if necessary.

Tips & Warnings

• Use bleach in place of hydrogen peroxide if necessary, but bleach may discolor your grout.

• Ventilate your work area when cleaning and sealing grout to prevent breathing in fumes from chemical cleaners and sealants.

References

• How to Clean Stuff: How to Clean Grout
• The Restoration Resource: How to Clean and Seal Ceramic Tile Grout Yourself