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Best Grout Cleaning Tools

Grout that’s tinged with grey can make even the most pristine powder room look like it hasn’t been tended to in ages. But when the cleaning bug strikes and you’re ready to tackle that dingy-looking grout, you’re going to need the proper tools.

Take a look at the following grout-cleaning tools and products, then check out some easy instructions for making and using all-natural DIY grout cleaners.

Note: Grout is porous, meaning over time it can dry out and crumble, especially if it wasn’t applied well in the first place. Because of this, you should do a spot test before using any of the following tools, products or methods.

Effective Grout-Cleaning Tools and Products

Most grout-cleaning tools are fairly inexpensive, and many of the products you’ll need can be found in your home. Here are some of the most popular options.

Tools

  • A grout-cleaning brush: You can find these at almost any hardware store.
  • An old toothbrush: This will work if you’re determined to get started, but don’t have a grout-cleaning brush. You can speed up the process with an electric model.
  • A small chisel tool: These plastic hand tools can save a great deal of time and your manicure, too. They’re also inexpensive.
  • A steamer: Steamers are probably the easiest method of brightening grout. All you have to do is steam and wipe residue away with a microfiber cloth. Since this tool is the gentlest, it’s a good option for renters who are concerned with security deposits.

Products

You can buy heavy-duty grout cleaners and even special grout-cleaning pens, but it’s also really easy to make your own solutions for this project. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to start small and work your way up to the hard hitters, as homemade cleaners may be milder.

Here are some DIY products you can start off with:

  • Vinegar and water: Mix one part vinegar to one part water in a spray bottle and — voilà — you’ve got a simple DIY cleaner. (This should not be used if you have stone walls, floors or tiles in your shower or bathroom.)
  • Baking soda and liquid detergent: Give grimy grout a boost with a paste made with 1/2 cup baking soda and 1 teaspoon of dishwashing liquid. (Just add more dishwashing liquid if your paste starts to dry out.)
  • Baking soda and water: Skip the detergent and mix two parts baking soda with one part water to make a paste.
Note: When switching over to stronger products or commercial cleaners, you’ll need to know which cleaners should never be mixed.

How to Clean Grout

The following instructions can be used with any of the above DIY cleaning solutions. Don’t forget your spot test!
  1. Apply your DIY cleaner to the grout.
  2. Let the solution sit. Vinegar will need to stay on for about 30 minutes, while the baking soda cleaning solutions only need about 10 to 15 minutes to work.
  3. Gently scrub your grout lines using your grout-cleaning brush, toothbrush or chisel tool.
  4. Once you’ve cleaned as much as you can, rinse any residue away with water.
  5. If your grout remains dingy, you may need to move on to a more intensive grout-cleaning method. Note: When switching over to stronger products or commercial cleaners, you’ll need to know which cleaners should never be mixed.

These methods can help you brighten up dull grout, but for a true deep clean you’re going to need a professional. Let ServiceMaster Clean® take care of grimy grout for you, so you have more time to do the things you really enjoy.

And if a hectic schedule means you’re so busy trying to balance family, school and work that you haven’t even noticed the state of your bathroom is in days, contact your local Merry Maids for some professional cleaning backup.