Grout is an essential part of tiled surfaces, whether in your kitchen, bathroom, or floor tiles. Over time, it can turn yellow, brown, or even black due to dirt, soap scum, moisture, and mold. A clean, white grout line instantly brightens up your space, making it look fresh and well-maintained.
If your grout has lost its original color, don’t worry! You don’t need expensive commercial cleaners—with simple household items, you can restore it to its bright white look. Let’s dive into the best methods to get your grout white again.
Why Does Grout Get Dirty?
Grout is porous, meaning it absorbs dirt, moisture, and stains over time. Some common reasons your grout might be turning yellow or brown include:
- Mold and mildew in humid areas (like bathrooms)
- Soap scum and hard water stains
- Cooking oils and food stains in kitchen tile grout
- Dust and dirt buildup on floor grout
- Lack of regular maintenance
Step-by-Step Guide to Whiten Your Grout
What You’ll Need:
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Dishwashing liquid (like Sunlight or Morning Fresh)
- Hydrogen peroxide (available in Kenyan pharmacies)
- Lemon juice (optional)
- A soft-bristled brush or old toothbrush
- A spray bottle (optional)
- A clean sponge or cloth
Method 1: Baking Soda & Vinegar Solution (Best for Mild Stains)
This is a classic DIY grout cleaner that works well for light stains.
Steps:
- Make a baking soda paste: Mix baking soda and water until it forms a thick paste.
- Apply the paste: Use a toothbrush to spread the paste onto the grout lines.
- Spray vinegar: Pour white vinegar into a spray bottle and lightly spray over the baking soda paste. The mixture will fizz and bubble, lifting dirt.
- Scrub the grout: After 5-10 minutes, scrub with a soft brush or old toothbrush.
- Rinse and wipe dry: Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe off the residue.
Why It Works: Baking soda acts as a mild abrasive, and vinegar dissolves grime and kills bacteria.
Method 2: Hydrogen Peroxide & Baking Soda (For Tough Stains & Mold)
If your grout is deeply stained or moldy, this method is more powerful.
Steps:
Mix baking soda and hydrogen peroxide into a paste.
Apply to grout lines and let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
Scrub the grout with a toothbrush or grout brush.
Rinse with clean water and dry with a cloth.
Extra Tip: For stubborn mold stains, leave the mixture on for 20-30 minutes before scrubbing
Method 3: Dish Soap & Warm Water (For Regular Maintenance)
For everyday cleaning, a simple dish soap and warm water mix will keep your grout looking fresh.
Steps:
Mix a few drops of dishwashing liquid with warm water.
Dip a sponge or cloth into the mixture and wipe the grout lines.
For light stains, scrub with a toothbrush.
Rinse and dry the area.
Why It Works: Dish soap breaks down grease and dirt, making it ideal for kitchen grout.
Method 4: Lemon Juice (For Natural Whitening & Fresh Scent
Lemon juice is a natural bleach that helps whiten grout and removes odors.
Steps:
Squeeze fresh lemon juice directly onto grout lines.
Let it sit for 10 minutes, then scrub with a toothbrush.
Wipe clean with a damp cloth.
Bonus: Your kitchen or bathroom will smell fresh and citrusy!
Preventing Grout from Getting Dirty Again
To keep your grout white and stain-free, follow these simple tips:
Seal your grout every 6-12 months to prevent stains from absorbing.
Wipe down bathroom tiles after showers to reduce moisture buildup.
Mop floors regularly to prevent dirt from settling in grout lines.
Use a grout brush or old toothbrush for weekly cleaning to prevent deep stains.
Keep bathrooms ventilated to prevent mold and mildew.
Final Thoughts
Restoring white grout doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming. With everyday household ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, and hydrogen peroxide, you can make your grout look brand new.
Next time you notice yellowing or dark stains in your grout, try one of these easy DIY cleaning hacks and enjoy a fresh, clean home!
Got any other grout-cleaning tips? Share them in the comments!