How to Clean Yellowed Grout in Your Bathroom
Yellowed grout can make even the cleanest bathroom look dingy and dirty. Fortunately, cleaning yellowed grout is a relatively simple process that can be done with a few household items. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to clean yellowed grout in your bathroom:
What You'll Need
- Cleaning Supplies:
- Baking soda: A natural abrasive that helps lift stains.
- White vinegar: A natural cleaner that helps to brighten grout.
- Hydrogen peroxide: A bleaching agent that helps to remove discoloration.
- Dish soap: To help loosen dirt and grime.
- A toothbrush: For scrubbing the grout.
- A spray bottle: For mixing and applying cleaning solutions.
- A bucket: For mixing cleaning solutions and rinsing.
- Microfiber cloth: For wiping and drying.
- Gloves: To protect your hands.
- Optional: Grout cleaner: For tough stains and discoloration.
Step-by-Step Guide:
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Prepare the area:
- Clear the area: Remove any items from the shower, bathtub, or floor that you'll be cleaning.
- Pre-clean the surface: Clean the tile and grout with a mild cleaner to remove any loose dirt or debris. Rinse with water and let the area dry completely.
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Mix the cleaning solution:
- For a natural cleaning solution: Combine equal parts baking soda, white vinegar, and hydrogen peroxide in a bowl.
- For tougher stains: You can also try a commercial grout cleaner, following the directions on the label.
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Apply the cleaning solution:
- Spray or apply: Using a spray bottle, apply the cleaning solution to the grout lines, making sure to cover the entire surface.
- Scrub: Use a toothbrush to scrub the grout, paying attention to any areas that are particularly stained. Work the cleaning solution into the grout for a few minutes.
- Let sit: Allow the solution to sit on the grout for 15-20 minutes.
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Rinse and dry:
- Rinse thoroughly: Use a bucket of water and a sponge to rinse the grout thoroughly, making sure to remove all traces of the cleaning solution.
- Dry: Use a microfiber cloth to dry the grout and tile.
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Repeat if necessary:
- For stubborn stains: You may need to repeat the cleaning process several times.
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Apply sealant:
- Protect your grout: After cleaning, you can apply a grout sealant to protect the grout from future stains and discoloration.
Tips for Cleaning Yellowed Grout
- Test the cleaning solution: Before applying any cleaning solution to the entire area, test it on a small, inconspicuous area first to make sure it doesn't damage the tile or grout.
- Wear gloves: Always wear gloves to protect your hands from the cleaning solutions.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals: Harsh chemicals can damage the grout and tile.
- Be patient: Cleaning yellowed grout can take time, so don't get discouraged if you don't see results immediately.
By following these steps and tips, you can effectively clean yellowed grout in your bathroom and restore its bright, white appearance. Remember to clean your grout regularly to prevent it from becoming discolored in the future.
