How to Clean Tile Grout

Grimy grout is a frequent household issue. With countless cleaning suggestions available online, it can be challenging to discern the best methods. To help, I’ve put several of these techniques to the test and am sharing my results. Read on to discover my findings…

I experimented with three different approaches – fresh lemon juice, 2-Oxiclean, and sulfamic acid cleaner (available at most home improvement stores). I began by ensuring proper ventilation by opening a window, and donned a pair of rubber gloves to safeguard my skin. If you intend to try these methods, remember to do a patch test in an unnoticeable area first to ensure there’s no unwanted reaction with your floor material. Bear in mind that my grout is gray – thus it will never appear white. Here’s what occurred:

1-Fresh Lemon Juice

I scrubbed the grout lines with a slice of lemon before giving it a good scrub with a green Scotch-Brite pad. I noticed an immediate improvement in cleanliness. I then rinsed the grout lines with a damp paper towel. The only cumbersome aspect of this method was removing the leftover pulp. Once dry, the grout looked substantially better

2-Oxiclean

I prepared a small quantity of Oxiclean in a plastic cup, maintaining a 1-to-1 ratio to form a runny paste. Using an old spoon, I applied this mixture to the grout, ensuring constant stirring to prevent the Oxiclean from separating from the water and hardening. After letting it rest for 5-10 minutes, I scrubbed it with a Scotch-Brite pad. This method was quite effective, but the Oxiclean did leave a white residue on the floor, necessitating immediate rinsing with water and thorough mopping afterward.

3-Sulfamic Acid Cleaner