How to Clean Bathroom Tile Grout With Vinegar and Baking Soda
Dirty grout can make even the cleanest bathroom look dingy. Luckily, cleaning grout is a fairly simple task, and you can use common household ingredients like vinegar and baking soda to get the job done. Here's how:
What you'll need:
- White vinegar: This will help to dissolve dirt and grime.
- Baking soda: This will act as a gentle abrasive to scrub away stubborn stains.
- A small bowl: To mix the vinegar and baking soda.
- An old toothbrush: For scrubbing the grout.
- A sponge: For wiping away the cleaning solution.
- A spray bottle: To apply the cleaning solution.
- Optional: Rubber gloves: To protect your hands.
Instructions:
- Prepare the grout: If necessary, use a brush or vacuum to remove any loose debris from the grout lines.
- Mix the cleaning solution: In the bowl, combine equal parts white vinegar and baking soda. Stir until it forms a paste. Note: Be careful as the mixture will fizz and bubble.
- Apply the paste: Apply the paste to the grout lines using an old toothbrush.
- Scrub: Scrub the grout with the toothbrush in a circular motion. Be sure to get into all the cracks and crevices.
- Rinse: Once you have scrubbed all the grout, rinse the area thoroughly with water.
- Dry: Dry the tiles and grout with a clean towel.
Tips:
- For stubborn stains: If the grout is heavily stained, you can leave the cleaning paste on the grout for a few minutes before scrubbing.
- Ventilation: Open a window or use a fan to ensure good ventilation, as the vinegar can have a strong smell.
- Protect yourself: Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands from the vinegar.
- Repeat if necessary: If the grout is still dirty, repeat the cleaning process.
Maintaining Clean Grout:
To keep your grout looking its best, you can follow these tips:
- Clean regularly: Aim to clean your grout every few weeks to prevent dirt and grime from building up.
- Use a grout sealer: Apply a grout sealer to your grout to protect it from stains and moisture.
With a little effort and some natural cleaners, you can have sparkling clean bathroom tile grout.