Grout is one of those sneaky problem spots in the bathroom. Over time, it absorbs moisture, traps soap scum, and collects mildew, leaving it looking dingy and discolored. The good news? You don’t need bleach or heavy duty cleaners to restore it. With the right approach, you can brighten grout lines safely, effectively, and completely chemical free.
What You’ll Need
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Baking soda
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White vinegar
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Warm water
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A spray bottle
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A stiff-bristled brush or old toothbrush
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Microfiber cloths or sponge
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Optional: Hydrogen peroxide (for stubborn stains)
Step 1: Prep the Area
Start by wiping down the tiles and grout with warm water. This removes loose dirt and opens up the pores in the grout, making your cleaner more effective.
Step 2: Apply a Baking Soda Paste
Mix 3 parts baking soda with 1 part water to form a thick paste. Spread the paste along the grout lines with your brush or finger. Baking soda works as a gentle abrasive that lifts dirt without damaging grout or tile.
Step 3: Spray with Vinegar
Fill a spray bottle with equal parts white vinegar and warm water. Lightly spray it over the baking soda coated grout. The mixture will fizz that’s the natural chemical reaction breaking down grime and soap scum. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes.
Step 4: Scrub the Grout
Using your brush or old toothbrush, scrub the grout lines in small, circular motions. Focus on discolored areas, reapplying paste and vinegar as needed. For tough corners, a small brush works wonders.
Step 5: Rinse & Wipe Clean
Once you’re done scrubbing, wipe the grout with a damp sponge or microfiber cloth to remove residue. Rinse with clean water and dry with a fresh cloth to prevent new buildup.
Step 6: For Stubborn Stains
If you still see dark patches, mix a paste of 2 parts baking soda with 1 part hydrogen peroxide and apply it to the grout. Let it sit for 5 to10 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing. This method is especially good for mildew stains.
Step 7: Keep Grout Clean Longer
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Wipe down tile and grout after showers to prevent moisture buildup.
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Run your bathroom fan or open a window to reduce humidity.
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Do a quick scrub once a month to keep grout fresh and bright.
✨ With these simple steps, your bathroom grout will look brighter, fresher, and cleaner all without the need for bleach or harsh chemicals.
