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What Is Tile Grout?

What is grout? Basically, it’s the stuff that fills the gaps between the tiles. There are cement and non-cement (epoxy and other materials) versions of it. Grout is not what holds the tiles to the surface, but it does help strengthen the tiles and add to the visual appeal.

It’s also there to help keep the surface clean by preventing dirt and grime from getting wedged in the gaps that would otherwise be there between the tiles without it. Of course, keeping grout clean poses its own set of challenges.

Frequent exposure to hard water, soap and hair care products can quickly turn clean bathroom tile grout into a dingy mess. The good news is that, in most cases, dingy grout can be effectively cleaned with a mixture of common household cleaners.

How Often Should You Clean Tile Grout?

That depends on where the grout is located. For a tiled shower where there’s regular use and constant moisture, the grout will need to be cleaned more often than a tiled wall. It’s best to clean grout as soon as it starts to look dirty, discolored or whenever mold and mildew start are starting to build up.

How to Clean Grout

The recommended cleaning method depends on how dirty your grout is to begin with. Some solutions will be more suitable for regular grout cleaning and maintenance, while others are made to really get after the gunk on especially grimy grout. Here are four methods for cleaning grout using common household cleaning supplies that you probably already have under your sink.

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Maintain Grout with Warm Water and a Stiff Brush

If the grout between your tiles appears to be in good shape and you want to keep it that way, clean it regularly with warm water and a stiff brush. Fill a spray bottle with warm water, then spray and scrub along the grout lines. Avoid brushes with metal bristles since those could strip away any sealant, damage the grout and scratch the tile.