Clean Grout Using Natural Products

If inhaling bleach and other harsh chemicals in order to clean grout doesn’t appeal to you, you do have an alternative method that is equally effective. Although you still need to put a little muscle into cleaning your grout you won’t be let down by the cleaning power of Mother Nature.

Steps

Cleaning the Tiles

  1. Clean the tiled area.
    • Remove any excess debris from the floor or counter area before attacking the grout.
    • Use warm water and mild dish soap when cleaning counters or backsplash areas.
    • Sweep floors and remove excess dirt and debris, concentrating on the grout area.

Cleaning the Grout with Vinegar

  1. Attack the grout using a milder approach. Start with the easiest product first; you may be able to take care of the problem with just a little vinegar and water. Or, consider mixing vinegar with club soda instead of water.
    • Combine half a part of white vinegar with half a part of water (or club soda) in a spray bottle or cup.
    • Pour or spray directly onto the grout and scrub.
    • Allow the compound to sit before wiping away the vinegar and water.

Cleaning the Grout with Baking Soda or Salt

  1. Add baking soda or salt to white vinegar/water (or club soda) mixture if stain or grime has not lifted.
  2. Add two parts baking soda to the vinegar/water mixture to create a thick paste.
  3. Apply the baking soda/white vinegar/water (club soda) compound directly to grout. Allow to sit on the grout for up to 15 minutes.
  4. Scrub well. Wipe away the paste as you work to see if the solution worked.

Cleaning the Grout with Oxygen Bleach

This method should work when the other methods aren't cleaning adequately.

  1. Turn to oxygen bleach (Oxy) if all else fails. Create a thick paste using water and/or club soda and apply to grout (the same way you applied it with the banking soda paste).
  2. Wait 15 minutes and then scrub. Wipe away with a clean cloth as you work.



Tips

  • Work in a circular motion when scrubbing your grout.
  • Change worn scrub or toothbrushes.
  • Consider trying a steam cleaning machine to clean grout. You can rent one from a home improvement store.

Things You'll Need

  • A natural cleaning compound, such as baking soda or salt
  • Natural “fluids” that stimulate stain and dirt removal, like lemon juice, white vinegar, club soda and oxygen bleach (such as Oxy Clean)
  • A scrub brush and/or toothbrush
  • Rags
  • A broom
  • A dustpan

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