How to Clean Grout Between Tiles in Shower
Shower grout is notoriously difficult to keep clean, as it's constantly exposed to moisture, soap scum, and mildew. However, with the right cleaning solutions and techniques, you can effectively clean and brighten your shower grout.
What You'll Need:
- Cleaning solution: There are many options, including commercial grout cleaners, homemade solutions (baking soda and vinegar), or a mixture of bleach and water.
- Scrubbing brush: A grout brush with stiff bristles is ideal.
- Old toothbrush: This is helpful for getting into tight spaces.
- Sponge: For rinsing and wiping away cleaning solution.
- Bucket: To mix cleaning solutions.
- Protective gloves: To protect your hands.
- Mask and eye protection: For ventilation and safety.
Steps:
- Prepare the area. Remove all items from the shower, such as toiletries and towels. Close the shower door or curtain to prevent the cleaning solution from spreading to other areas.
- Pre-clean the grout. Use a damp sponge to wipe away loose dirt and debris from the grout.
- Apply the cleaning solution. Depending on your chosen method, follow the instructions on the product label or mix the ingredients in a bucket.
- Commercial grout cleaner: Apply directly to the grout using a sponge or brush.
- Baking soda and vinegar: Mix equal parts of baking soda and vinegar to create a paste. Apply the paste to the grout and let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Bleach and water: Mix 1 part bleach with 10 parts water. Apply the mixture to the grout with a sponge. Caution: Wear gloves, a mask, and eye protection when using bleach.
- Scrub the grout. Use a grout brush or old toothbrush to scrub the cleaning solution into the grout. Pay attention to areas with heavy build-up.
- Rinse the grout. Use a damp sponge to rinse away the cleaning solution and any remaining dirt or debris.
- Dry the grout. Use a clean towel to dry the grout thoroughly. This will help to prevent mildew from growing.
Tips:
- For stubborn stains: Apply the cleaning solution and let it sit for 30 minutes before scrubbing. You can also try using a grout pen or marker to color over discolored grout.
- To prevent future build-up: Clean the grout regularly, at least once a month.
- Consider sealing the grout: Grout sealant can help to repel water and dirt, making it easier to clean.
Additional Notes:
- Always test the cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of grout before applying it to the entire shower. This will help to ensure that the solution will not damage the tile.
- Be sure to ventilate the area while cleaning with bleach or other strong chemicals.
By following these steps and tips, you can keep your shower grout looking clean and bright for years to come.
