How to Clean Tile Grout in Shower with Vinegar
A clean shower is a happy shower. But over time, grout can become stained, discolored, and even moldy, making your shower look dingy. Fortunately, cleaning your shower grout with vinegar is a simple and effective way to restore its shine.
What you will need:
- White Vinegar: The star of the show! Choose a distilled white vinegar with at least 5% acidity.
- Soft-Bristled Brush: A toothbrush or a grout brush works best.
- Spray Bottle: For easy application of the vinegar solution.
- Microfiber Cloth: To wipe away the dirt and residue.
- Optional: Baking Soda: For tougher stains, mix it with vinegar to create a paste.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Shower: Remove any loose debris or soap scum from your shower floor and walls.
- Mix the Solution: Fill your spray bottle with equal parts white vinegar and water.
- Apply the Vinegar: Spray the vinegar solution liberally onto the grout lines.
- Scrub the Grout: Use a soft-bristled brush to scrub the grout lines vigorously, making sure to reach all the crevices.
- Let it Sit: Allow the vinegar solution to sit for 10-15 minutes to loosen the dirt and grime.
- Rinse: Rinse the grout with water to remove the vinegar and dirt.
- Dry: Wipe the grout lines dry with a microfiber cloth.
- Optional: Baking Soda Paste: For stubborn stains, create a paste by mixing baking soda with a small amount of vinegar. Apply the paste to the stained areas and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before scrubbing.
Tips:
- Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation in your bathroom while cleaning to avoid any fumes.
- Test a Small Area: Before applying the vinegar solution to your entire shower, test it on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn't damage the tile.
- Repeat as Needed: You may need to repeat the process several times to achieve the desired results, especially for heavily stained grout.
- Preventative Measures: After cleaning your grout, you can help prevent future staining by using a grout sealer.