How to Clean Grout with Baking Soda and Peroxide
Dirty grout can make even the cleanest bathroom or kitchen look dingy. Luckily, you can easily clean it using common household ingredients like baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Here's a step-by-step guide:
What You'll Need:
- Baking soda: This acts as a gentle abrasive to scrub away dirt and grime.
- Hydrogen peroxide: This is a natural bleach that helps to brighten the grout.
- A small bowl: To mix your cleaning solution.
- An old toothbrush: For scrubbing the grout.
- A cleaning cloth: To wipe away the cleaning solution.
- Optional: A spray bottle: To apply the solution.
Instructions:
- Mix the cleaning solution: In your bowl, combine equal parts baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. You'll want to start with a small amount, and add more as needed.
- Apply the solution: You can apply the cleaning solution using a toothbrush or a spray bottle. If you're using a toothbrush, dip it into the solution and gently scrub the grout lines. If you're using a spray bottle, spray the solution directly onto the grout.
- Let it sit: Allow the cleaning solution to sit on the grout for at least 15 minutes. This will give the baking soda and hydrogen peroxide time to work their magic.
- Scrub the grout: Use your toothbrush to scrub the grout lines. Pay attention to any particularly dirty or stained areas.
- Wipe away the solution: Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe away the cleaning solution and any loose dirt or grime.
- Rinse the area: Rinse the area with clean water and allow it to dry completely.
Tips:
- For tough stains, you can make a paste with baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Apply the paste to the stained area and let it sit for 30 minutes before scrubbing.
- If your grout is particularly discolored, you can try adding a few drops of lemon juice to your cleaning solution. The citric acid in lemon juice can help to brighten the grout.
- To prevent your grout from getting dirty again, you can seal it with a grout sealer. This will create a protective barrier that repels dirt and grime.
Safety Precautions:
- Always wear gloves when working with hydrogen peroxide, as it can irritate the skin.
- Do not mix hydrogen peroxide with bleach, as this can create a toxic gas.
- If you are using a spray bottle, be careful not to spray the solution on any surrounding surfaces, as it can cause discoloration.
Cleaning your grout with baking soda and peroxide is an easy and effective way to brighten your bathroom or kitchen. Remember to be patient and thorough, and your grout will look good as new!
