Can You Remove Stains From Light Floor Tile Grout?

Max Winters
·4 min read

There's nothing quite like knowing you installed light grout that now looks discolored. Managing dark stains on light-colored floor grout can be frustrating. Luckily with the right approach and a little elbow grease, you'll be able to restore tiled surfaces so that your floors look undeniably clean. Light-colored and white grout is notorious for showing stains caused by dirt, mold buildup in bathrooms, and even soap scum, and water stains from cleaning. Learning the proper technique to manage that buildup can help keep it looking bright.

Gather Cleaning Supplies

  • Rubber gloves

  • Microfiber cloth

  • Stiff brush or old toothbrush

  • White vinegar

  • Baking soda

  • Dish soap

  • Commercial grout cleaner (optional)

1. Clean the Entire Floor or Tile Surface

  • Sweep or vacuum any debris or hair.

  • Wipe the tile surface with plain water and a soft sponge to have a clear view of the grout.

  • You can only use a steam cleaner if the tile is sealed. The excess moisture of steam cleaning will damage unsealed delicate surfaces.

2. Prepare the Cleaning Solution

  • Mix a cleaning solution appropriate for your floor type. A natural cleaning solution for light-colored grout can be made from warm water and mild dish soap. Alternatively, you can use a commercial grout cleaner, following the manufacturer's instructions.

  • Ensure proper ventilation in the area and wear nylon gloves to protect your hands while handling cleaning chemicals and to protect your knuckles from scraping on the abrasive materials.

3. Pre-Treat the Stained Areas

  • Pre-treat the stained areas by scrubbing gently with a soft-bristled brush or an old toothbrush to loosen surface dirt.

  • For stubborn stains, create a paste of baking soda and water and apply it directly to the affected areas. Allow it to sit for 10-15 minutes before scrubbing with the brush.

  • Alternatively you can mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and plain water into a spray bottle. Spray the stained grout and let it sit for one hour. Then rinse thoroughly. Don't use it on polished marble tile.

4. Apply the Cleaning Solution

  • Using a sponge or a clean cloth, apply your cleaning solution to the grout lines. Apply throughly, focusing on the areas with the darkest stains.

5. Scrub the Grout Lines

  • With a stiff-bristled brush or a grout brush, scrub the grout lines vigorously in a circular motion.

  • Never use abrasive sponges or steel wool. They'll scratch tiles.

6. Rinse and Dry the Floor

  • Rinse down any vertical surfaces or mop the floor with clean water.

  • Use a clean, dry microfiber cloth to dry the floor, ensuring all moisture is removed from the grout lines.

7. Apply Grout Sealer (Optional)

  • To prevent future staining and keep your grout looking clean for longer, consider applying a grout sealer after the cleaning process.

  • Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the application of the grout sealer, ensuring proper ventilation during the process.

Related: How to Clean Your Vehicle’s Floor Mats

How often should you clean your floor grout?

  • Sweeping or vacuuming to remove dirt and debris at least once a week can do a lot to keep your tile grout clean for longer.

  • Prompt spot cleaning of spills will help prevent stains from setting.

  • Keeping an eye on dirty grout around a shower head or drains can keep you ahead of unsightly water stains too.

  • Deep cleaning with a spray bottle of white vinegar and a stiff brush should be done every 1-3 months to remove embedded dirt and combat early mold growth in crevices of tile grout.

  • Resealing and applying a grout pen can be applied every 1-3 years according to manufacturer recommendations. Adjust cleaning frequency based on usage and traffic levels to ensure your floor grout stays clean and well-maintained.

Related: The Easy Way to Clean a Showerhead

How often should you use grout sealer?

Grout sealer should typically be applied every 1-3 years, depending on factors such as the type of grout, level of foot traffic, and exposure to moisture. Sealing helps protect the grout from stains, moisture penetration, and mold buildup, thereby prolonging its lifespan and maintaining the appearance of tile surfaces.

However, it's essential to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the specific type of sealer. Don't assume that you can use a marble tile product on natural stone tile. More humid environments or spaces with heavy usage may benefit from more frequent sealing to ensure optimal protection.

Regularly inspect your grout for signs of wear and deterioration, and address discolored and dirt-stained grout before it gets out of control.