When cleaning ceramic tile grout, it is important to try a mild and nonabrasive option first before moving up to more harsh cleaners. If a commercial cleaner is used, it is a good idea to use those which are made specifically for grout. Any scrub brush or rag, along with the cleaner being used, should be tested before using it all over the remainder of the tile.
Before cleaning ceramic tile grout, it is a good idea to clean the tile itself first. This will prevent dirt and grime from seeping back over onto the grout after it has been cleaned. A good first choice in cleaners is vinegar and water. This is not harsh and will not wear away the grout. Baking soda and water can also be combined to form a paste which is useful in cleaning tile with a rag or brush.
Commercial cleaners are also available for cleaning ceramic tile grout for more resistant stains. When using harsh chemicals, it is important that the room be well-ventilated and that protective gloves are used to protect hands. A small area of the grout that is out of the way and not well seen should be cleaned first to determine if any negative reactions will occur. If nothing happens within a few minutes, it is generally safe to use the cleaner on the remaining tile.
A firm brush should be used when cleaning ceramic tile grout to scrub away stains. Bristles should be firm but not made from metal because these may rub off some of the grout itself. Proper brushes are generally sold at home improvement stores, grocery stores, and department stores.
Sometimes stains caused from oil and other hard to remove substances may mean that the ceramic tile grout will need to be removed and partially replaced. This can be done by scraping away the dirty grout and putting new in its place. Those who don’t know how to do this properly may need to hire a professional installer.
Bleach can be used to clean or whiten white ceramic tile grout, but shouldn’t be used on colored grouts. Some types of grout may be damaged by straight bleach, so it should be diluted and tested thoroughly before use. It may be a good idea to test the grout and wait for 24 hours when using a harsh chemical like bleach for cleaning since it is a corrosive and may eat away at the grout if not diluted properly.
