What Are Some Safe DIY Ways to Clean Tile and Grout?
While we’re proud to be your source for effective grout and tile cleaning and sealing in the Plano, TX, area, there are a few things you can do between professional cleanings to keep these areas looking spick and span. If you’re trying to maintain a clean shower, kitchen backsplash or other tiled areas in your home, here are some effective and safe DIY ways to clean ceramic or porcelain tile and grout:
Diluted Vinegar
For mild stains or a bit of dirt buildup, vinegar is a tried and true cleaner that works for grout and a variety of other household cleanup jobs. Follow these steps:
- Fill a spray bottle with equal parts white vinegar and warm water.
- Spray this mixture onto the grout.
- Let it stand for at least five minutes.
- Scrub the area clean with a stiff brush.
Baking Soda Paste
If your grout requires a bit more cleaning power, you may want to start by making a paste of baking soda and water and then applying it to your grout. Here’s how:
- Mix about a half cup of baking soda with a few tablespoons of water. You may need to adjust this ratio until your paste has a spreadable consistency.
- Cover the grout lines with your baking soda paste, then spray with the same vinegar solution mentioned above.
- Once it starts foaming, scrub vigorously with a stiff brush.
- Rinse with water and wipe dry.
- Repeat as needed.
Hydrogen Peroxide
For moderate stains, you may find hydrogen peroxide to be effective. This solution is very inexpensive, and most drug stores carry it. Try the following steps:
- You can apply hydrogen peroxide directly to your grout, let it stand and then rinse with water.
- You can also create a hydrogen peroxide paste made of one part dish soap, one part baking soda and two parts hydrogen peroxide.
- Scrub the paste into the grout.
- Rinse with water and mop up what remains.
