5 Simple and Easy Ways to Clean Grout and Get Rid of Mold

Grimy grout and stubborn mold can make even the cleanest bathroom or kitchen look dingy. Fortunately, you don’t need fancy cleaners or endless scrubbing to restore your grout’s original shine. With the right methods, you can tackle those dark stains and moldy spots quickly and easily. Here are five simple ways to clean grout and banish mold without the hassle.

1. Baking Soda and Vinegar

For a natural yet powerful solution, baking soda and vinegar are your go-to combo. Start by sprinkling baking soda directly onto the grout lines. Then, pour vinegar over the baking soda; you’ll see it fizz as it gets to work.

Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes before scrubbing with a brush or old toothbrush. Rinse with warm water, and your grout will look noticeably brighter. This method is ideal for light to moderate stains.

Scrubbing dirty floor grout.
Photo Credit: Trendy Surfaces Inc

2. Hydrogen Peroxide Paste

Hydrogen peroxide is excellent for killing mold and whitening grout. Mix hydrogen peroxide with baking soda until it forms a thick paste. Apply the paste directly to the grout and let it sit for 15 minutes.

Scrub the area thoroughly, then rinse with warm water. This method works well for stubborn stains and mold growth in high-moisture areas like showers.

Cleaning dirty grout with paste.
Photo Credit: Bren via Brendid

3. Dish Soap and Warm Water

For routine maintenance or light buildup, a simple mix of dish soap and warm water can do wonders. Fill a spray bottle with warm water and a few drops of dish soap.

Spray the grout lines generously, then scrub with a brush. Rinse thoroughly to wash away the grime. This method is gentle yet effective for keeping grout clean on a regular basis.

Scrubbing wall grout with sponge and spray.
Photo Credit: Canva Pro

4. Bleach Solution for Deep Cleaning

A diluted bleach solution may be necessary when grout stains are deeply set or mold is extensive. Mix one part bleach with three parts water and apply it carefully to the affected grout using a spray bottle or sponge.

Let it sit for about 10 minutes before scrubbing with a stiff brush. Rinse thoroughly with water to remove any leftover bleach residue. Be sure to ventilate the area and wear gloves for safety.

Using bleach gel to clean grout.
Photo Credit: Maria Louise Design

5. Steam Cleaning

If you prefer a chemical-free method, a steam cleaner is a fantastic option. The high-pressure steam penetrates grout lines, loosening dirt, mold, and stains with minimal effort.

Simply direct the steam wand along the grout lines and wipe away the loosened grime with a cloth or sponge. This method is ideal for larger areas like tiled floors or shower walls.

Steam cleaning dirty tile grout.
Photo Credit: Lee Wallender via Vapor Clean

Related Articles

Keeping grout clean doesn’t have to be a struggle. By using these simple yet effective methods, you can restore your grout’s color and eliminate mold with ease. Whether you prefer natural solutions like baking soda or powerful cleaners like bleach, these tips will help you achieve spotless grout and a fresher-looking space.