Grout might seem like a small detail, but when it’s dirty, discolored, or moldy—it can make your entire tile job look tired and worn. Whether you’re dealing with kitchen floors, bathroom walls, or a high-traffic entryway, keeping your grout clean is essential for maintaining the fresh, polished look of your space.

At SPS Construction, we know grout—so here are some proven tips and methods to help you bring it back to life.

🔎 First, Why Does Grout Get So Dirty?

Grout is porous, which means it naturally absorbs dirt, spills, soap scum, and moisture. Without proper cleaning and sealing, it can darken over time or even develop mildew—especially in showers and wet areas.

✅ Grout Cleaning Methods We Recommend

1. Warm Water + Scrub Brush
Sometimes simple is best. Use warm water and a stiff-bristled brush (like a toothbrush or grout-specific brush) to scrub away surface grime.

2. Baking Soda + Vinegar Paste
Make a paste using baking soda and water. Apply it to the grout, then spray with vinegar. Let it fizz and sit for a few minutes before scrubbing and rinsing. Great for light stains!

3. Oxygen Bleach (Like OxiClean)
Mix oxygen bleach with water and let it sit on grout lines for 10–15 minutes. Scrub and rinse. This method is effective for deeper stains and less abrasive than chlorine bleach.

4. Hydrogen Peroxide + Baking Soda
For mold or mildew, mix hydrogen peroxide with baking soda into a paste. Apply, scrub, and rinse thoroughly.

5. Commercial Grout Cleaners
Look for pH-balanced cleaners made specifically for tile and grout. Avoid harsh chemicals or anything acidic on natural stone surfaces.

✋ Grout Cleaning Don’ts

• Don’t use metal brushes—they can scratch tile and damage grout
• Don’t leave bleach-based products sitting too long—they can erode grout over time
• Don’t forget to rinse thoroughly after cleaning!

🛡 Pro Tip: Seal Your Grout

Once clean, apply a grout sealer to protect it from future staining. Sealing creates a barrier that repels moisture and dirt—especially important in kitchens and bathrooms.

🧽 Maintenance Tips

• Wipe down wet tile areas after use (like showers)
• Use a pH-neutral tile cleaner weekly
• Reseal grout every 6–12 months, depending on foot traffic and moisture exposure