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How to Remove Grout From a Tub

Billy McCarley

There are many reasons to remove grout around a tub. You may be installing tile for the first time, be replacing damaged tile, or be regrouting. Excess grout that has hardened onto a tub will cause a few problems. First, if the grout is in an area that comes in contact with your body, then you may receive scratches, or, at least, a miserable bath experience. Second, if the grout is large enough, then the aesthetic value of the tub area will be compromised. Removing grout from a tub requires a few meticulous steps in order to prevent damage to the tub. The job is not difficult, and, with due diligence, you may complete the removal in as little as two hours.

  1. Soak the grout with hot water. Hot water will help break apart the grout and aid in its removal. Saturate the grout for a few minutes before continuing.

  2. Mix the washing powders and hot water together in the 1 gallon bucket. Add 1/2 scoop of powders to 1 gallon of hot water.

  3. Saturate the grout with the soap mixture. Allow the washing powder mixture to set into the grout for 5 to 10 minutes.

  4. Remove the large chunks of grout using a metal dental pick. Be gentle when picking the grout away, as you can damage your tub's finish if you are not careful. The hardest part of this step is patience.

  5. Dip a fine-textured scouring pad into the soap mixture and gently scour the remaining grout away. Keep the grout soaked with the soap mixture while you work.

  6. Wipe away any remaining residue using a stiff sponge soaked in the soap mixture. Repeat steps 5 and 6 until the grout is gone.