Grout might seem like a small detail, but if you’ve ever stood back and looked at your bathroom tiles only to see dark, grimy lines between them, you know how big of a difference clean grout makes.
I’ve tackled my fair share of dingy tiles over the years, and I can tell you this—learning how to clean bathroom grout properly will completely change how your bathroom looks and feels.
Whether your grout is mildly discolored or coated in stubborn mold, this guide covers the best grout cleaning methods, natural solutions, and tools that actually work—no need for harsh chemicals or endless scrubbing.
Table of Contents
- Why Cleaning Bathroom Grout Is So Important
- Understanding What Type of Grout You Have
- Step 1: Gather Your Grout Cleaning Tools
- Step 2: Choose the Right Bathroom Grout Cleaner
- How to Clean Mold and Mildew from Grout
- How to Clean Shower Grout Without Scrubbing
- How to Whiten Discolored Grout
- How to Clean Bathroom Tile and Grout Together
- How to Keep Grout Clean Longer
- Natural Grout Cleaning Alternatives (For Eco-Conscious Cleaners)
- How to Deep Clean Bathroom Grout Once a Month
- Troubleshooting: When Grout Just Won’t Come Clean
- Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Bathroom Grout
- Final Thoughts: Keep Your Grout Looking New
Why Cleaning Bathroom Grout Is So Important
Before we dive into the methods, let’s talk about why grout gets so dirty. Grout is porous—it absorbs moisture, soap scum, and bacteria. Over time, it traps dirt, leading to that unpleasant brown or black appearance, especially in showers or around the tub.
Regular grout cleaning doesn’t just make your bathroom shine; it also helps prevent mold and mildew buildup, which can cause bad odors and even damage the grout seal. Keeping grout clean means a healthier, fresher, and more beautiful bathroom overall.
Understanding What Type of Grout You Have
Before grabbing your cleaning tools, it helps to know what type of grout you’re dealing with.
- Cement-based grout (the most common) is slightly porous and prone to staining.
- Epoxy grout is more durable and less likely to absorb moisture but can still get surface grime.
The good news? Both can be cleaned effectively with the right approach. Let’s move on to how.
Step 1: Gather Your Grout Cleaning Tools
You don’t need fancy gadgets to clean grout, but the right tools make the job faster and more effective. Here’s what I usually keep on hand:
- A grout scrub brush or an old toothbrush
- A spray bottle for applying cleaning solution
- Microfiber cloths or sponges
- Rubber gloves (trust me, your hands will thank you)
- Optional: a steam cleaner for grout if you want a deep, chemical-free clean
Having these ready saves you from scrambling mid-clean.
Step 2: Choose the Right Bathroom Grout Cleaner
You have plenty of choices when it comes to cleaning grout—DIY grout cleaners, store-bought sprays, and natural cleaning recipes all work in different ways. Here are my favorite options:
1. The Baking Soda and Vinegar Method (Natural Grout Cleaner)
This method is my go-to for eco-friendly grout cleaning.
What to do:
- Mix baking soda with a bit of water to form a paste.
- Spread the paste along the grout lines.
- Fill a spray bottle with white vinegar and spritz over the paste.
- Let it fizz for about 5–10 minutes.
- Scrub with a toothbrush or grout brush, then rinse thoroughly with warm water.
The bubbling reaction helps lift dirt and kill bacteria. Plus, it’s safe and non-toxic.
2. Hydrogen Peroxide and Baking Soda Combo
For stubborn stains or mildew, hydrogen peroxide works wonders.
What to do:
- Mix baking soda and hydrogen peroxide into a thick paste.
- Apply it directly to the grout lines.
- Let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
- Scrub with a grout brush and rinse clean.
This method whitens and brightens the grout without bleach.
3. Dish Soap and Vinegar Solution (Gentle for Regular Cleaning)
If you clean your bathroom often, this gentle mix is perfect for maintaining grout.
What to do:
- Combine equal parts white vinegar and warm water in a spray bottle.
- Add a few drops of Dawn dish soap or any mild detergent.
- Spray onto the grout, wait 5 minutes, then scrub and rinse.
This removes soap scum, surface dirt, and light mildew—ideal for weekly maintenance.
4. Oxygen Bleach for Deep Cleaning Bathroom Grout
When natural methods aren’t cutting it, oxygen bleach (like OxiClean) is a powerful but safer option than chlorine bleach.
What to do:
- Mix according to package directions.
- Apply to grout and let it sit for 15–20 minutes.
- Scrub lightly and rinse thoroughly.
Oxygen bleach lifts deep stains and kills mold without leaving toxic residue.
5. Steam Cleaning for Chemical-Free Grout Cleaning
If you prefer avoiding any cleaning products, a steam cleaner for grout is your best friend.
The high temperature loosens grime, kills bacteria, and sanitizes grout lines naturally. It’s especially great for cleaning shower grout where mold often grows.
Simply run the steam nozzle along the grout lines, then wipe away loosened dirt with a microfiber cloth.
How to Clean Mold and Mildew from Grout
Let’s be honest: mold in bathroom grout is one of the toughest cleaning challenges. If you see black spots or smell a musty odor, mold has already taken hold.
Here’s my reliable process for removing mold from grout:
- Mix one part bleach to three parts water (or use a specialized mildew remover).
- Apply the mixture with a spray bottle or sponge.
- Let it sit for 10 minutes.
- Scrub using a stiff brush and rinse thoroughly.
If you prefer a non-toxic alternative, try using hydrogen peroxide and baking soda paste. It’s powerful yet gentle and safe to use in enclosed spaces.
Pro Tip: After cleaning, keep the bathroom well-ventilated and wipe down tiles after showers to stop mold from returning.
How to Clean Shower Grout Without Scrubbing
If scrubbing feels like a workout you didn’t sign up for, here’s a low-effort solution that works while you relax.
- Spray a mixture of vinegar and hydrogen peroxide on your grout.
- Let it sit for 30 minutes.
- Wipe clean with a damp cloth.
This breaks down grime with minimal effort. Repeat weekly to prevent buildup.
How to Whiten Discolored Grout
Discolored or yellowed grout can make your entire bathroom look dirty even when it’s not. Here’s how I brighten mine:
- Mix baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and a few drops of lemon juice for an extra whitening effect.
- Apply to the grout lines and let it rest for 15 minutes.
- Scrub lightly, then rinse and dry.
The lemon juice acts as a mild bleach, brightening grout naturally.
How to Clean Bathroom Tile and Grout Together
Cleaning grout and tile together is efficient and ensures an even shine.
- Start by spraying your grout cleaner over the tile area.
- Let it sit a few minutes.
- Scrub grout lines first, then wipe the tiles clean.
- Finish with a rinse using warm water.
This keeps your tiles glossy and prevents grime from spreading into the grout.
How to Keep Grout Clean Longer
Once your grout is spotless, you’ll want it to stay that way. I follow a few simple maintenance habits to make cleaning easier next time:
- Dry surfaces after every shower. Use a squeegee or towel to wipe down tiles and grout.
- Use a daily shower spray. A mix of vinegar and water helps prevent soap scum buildup.
- Seal your grout. Every 6–12 months, apply a grout sealer to block moisture and stains.
- Clean weekly. Regular light cleaning prevents deep discoloration.
These steps keep your bathroom grout bright and mold-free year-round.
Natural Grout Cleaning Alternatives (For Eco-Conscious Cleaners)
If you prefer green cleaning methods, there are plenty of natural ways to clean grout without sacrificing effectiveness.
- Baking soda + vinegar: The classic combo for gentle scrubbing.
- Hydrogen peroxide + lemon: Great for whitening and disinfecting.
- Castile soap + warm water: A mild but effective cleaner for routine maintenance.
- Essential oils (like tea tree or eucalyptus): Add to vinegar spray for antibacterial benefits and a fresh scent.
I personally love the fresh, natural smell of lemon and tea tree oil after cleaning—it turns a chore into a mini aromatherapy session.
How to Deep Clean Bathroom Grout Once a Month
Every month, I dedicate time for a deep grout cleaning to keep things pristine. Here’s my monthly routine:
- Spray all grout lines with vinegar-water solution and let it sit for 10 minutes.
- Apply baking soda paste to any darker areas.
- Scrub with a grout brush or electric scrubber if you have one.
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
- Dry with a microfiber towel to prevent water spots.
- Re-seal if necessary, especially in high-moisture areas like the shower.
It’s not glamorous, but it’s incredibly satisfying when the grout looks brand new.
Troubleshooting: When Grout Just Won’t Come Clean
Sometimes, no matter what you do, some stains remain. Don’t worry—it happens.
Here are your options:
- Try oxygen bleach or a professional-grade grout cleaner.
- Use a steam cleaner for a deep, pore-level clean.
- If the grout is permanently stained, regrouting small sections may be the best fix.
Replacing small patches of stained grout can instantly make your bathroom look remodeled—without spending much money.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Bathroom Grout
Can I use bleach to clean grout?
Yes, but use it sparingly. Bleach is effective for killing mold and whitening grout, but overuse can weaken the grout and cause fading. Opt for oxygen bleach or hydrogen peroxide for safer alternatives.
Is vinegar safe for all grout types?
Vinegar works great on unsealed or cement-based grout, but avoid using it on epoxy grout or natural stone tiles—it can cause etching.
How often should I clean my bathroom grout?
For best results, give your grout a quick clean once a week and a deep clean once a month. Consistency keeps the grout from absorbing deep stains.
Do I need to seal my grout?
Yes! Sealing is the secret to keeping grout clean longer. It prevents water and soap from soaking in, making maintenance much easier.
Final Thoughts: Keep Your Grout Looking New
Cleaning bathroom grout might not be the most glamorous task, but it’s one of the most rewarding. When those lines go from dull gray to crisp white, the entire space transforms—it feels fresh, bright, and almost brand new.
By using natural grout cleaners, regular maintenance, and a bit of patience, you can keep your grout clean and mold-free without harsh chemicals. Whether you rely on vinegar and baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, or even a steam cleaner, every method works if you stick with it.
So next time you notice those pesky stains creeping in, grab your brush, mix up a quick DIY cleaner, and take a few minutes to restore your bathroom’s sparkle. You’ll be amazed at how much cleaner, brighter, and more inviting it feels—just from cleaning the grout.
✅ Key Takeaways:
- Clean grout regularly to prevent mold and mildew.
- Natural cleaners like baking soda, vinegar, and hydrogen peroxide are powerful yet safe.
- Steam cleaning and oxygen bleach work for deep cleaning.
- Seal your grout for lasting results.
- Consistency is the secret to effortless maintenance.
Next Reads:
| How to Mop Bathroom Floor: Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide |
| 9 Best Cleaning Products for Bathrooms: My Honest Reviews |
| How to Get Rid of Bathroom Mold Fast & Keep It Away |
| How To Deep Clean Your Bathroom |
Emma Vanderlyn is a home enthusiast with a passion for all things natural and eco-friendly. With years of experience experimenting with DIY solutions, she’s dedicated to creating safe, effective, and budget-friendly cleaning recipes that are kind to both your home and the planet. Emma believes that a clean home shouldn’t come at the cost of harsh chemicals, and her easy-to-follow guides make natural cleaning accessible to everyone.
When she’s not whipping up a new cleaner in her kitchen, Emma can be found researching the latest in green living or transforming her space with mindful, stylish decor ideas. She’s here to share her love of natural living and help you create a home that shines—naturally.