HOW TO CLEAN GROUT IN SHOWER?

How to Clean Grout in Shower?

How to Clean Grout in Shower?

Blog Article

Keeping your shower grout clean not only enhances the appearance of your bathroom but also helps prevent the growth of mold and mildew. Grout, especially in high-moisture areas like the shower, can be difficult to maintain due to its porous nature. However, with the right tools and techniques, you can restore your grout to its original cleanliness without much hassle. In this guide, we'll walk you through effective methods to clean grout in the shower.



1. Gather the Necessary Cleaning Supplies


Before you begin the cleaning process, ensure you have all the necessary supplies. Having everything ready will make the task much more efficient and straightforward.

Essential Supplies:

  • Grout cleaner (store-bought or homemade)

  • Baking soda

  • White vinegar

  • Water

  • Scrub brush (with stiff bristles)

  • Old toothbrush (for hard-to-reach areas)

  • Spray bottle

  • Microfiber cloth or towel

  • Gloves (optional)


Having these supplies ready will save time and ensure that you don't have to stop in the middle of the cleaning process.

2. Dry Clean the Surface

Before applying any cleaning solution, dry-clean the grout lines. Use a dry microfiber cloth or towel to wipe off any dust or loose debris from the grout and tiles. This step will help the cleaning products to work more effectively on the grime and stains.

3. Apply a Grout Cleaner or Homemade Solution

You can either purchase a grout cleaner from the store or make a homemade solution. Both methods are effective, but the homemade solution is often more eco-friendly and budget-friendly.

Homemade Grout Cleaner: Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Add a tablespoon of baking soda to the mixture and shake well. The vinegar will break down the soap scum and mineral deposits, while the baking soda helps to lift stains and dirt.

Store-Bought Cleaner: There are many grout cleaners available in the market that are specifically designed for bathroom surfaces. Look for one that is safe for tile and grout and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Once your cleaner is ready, spray it generously over the grout lines in your shower, covering all the stained or dirty areas. Allow the solution to sit for 10 to 15 minutes to give it time to break down the grime.4.

Scrub the Grout Lines

Now comes the most crucial step—scrubbing the grout. For this, you will need a stiff-bristled brush. A dedicated grout brush is ideal, but an old toothbrush can work too, especially for hard-to-reach areas.

Scrubbing Tips

  • Scrub in a circular motion to ensure you are getting into the grooves of the grout lines.

  • Focus on areas that have visible stains or discolouration

  • Don’t apply too much pressure, as this could damage the grout. Let the cleaner do the work, and use the brush to gently loosen any dirt or buildup.

  • For corners or smaller spaces, use the toothbrush to reach those tight spots.

  • For particularly stubborn stains, you may need to apply a second layer of the cleaner and repeat the scrubbing process.


 

5. Rinse with Warm Water

After scrubbing, rinse the grout lines with warm water. You can either use a handheld shower head or a cup to pour water over the surface. Make sure to rinse thoroughly to remove all traces of the cleaning solution and loosened grime.

If you find that any stains persist, don’t be discouraged. Repeat the cleaning process, focusing on problem areas, until the grout looks clean

6. Use a Steam Cleaner (Optional)

If you have a steam cleaner, it can be a great tool to deep clean your grout. The heat from the steam helps to loosen dirt and grime, making it easier to scrub away.

How to Use a Steam Cleaner

  • Attach the grout cleaning tool to your steam cleaner.

  • Direct the steam onto the grout lines, moving slowly along the surface to allow the steam to break down the dirt.

  • Once the grime starts to lift, use your brush to scrub the area for a deeper clean.

  •  This method is highly effective for areas with mold or heavy soap scum buildup.


7. Apply a Grout Sealer

Once your grout is clean, it’s a good idea to apply a grout sealer. Grout is porous, which means it can absorb water, dirt, and stains easily. A grout sealer creates a protective layer that helps prevent future stains and mold growth.

How to Apply Grout Sealer

  • Make sure your grout is completely dry before applying the sealer.

  • Use a small paintbrush or applicator to apply the sealer directly onto the grout lines.

  • Let the sealer sit for the recommended time, then wipe off any excess with a clean cloth.

  • Allow the sealer to cure for 24 hours before using the shower.


Grout sealing is an optional but recommended step to keep your grout in good condition for a longer period.

8. Prevent Future Grout Stains


After cleaning your grout, it’s essential to take steps to prevent future stains and mold buildup. Here are a few tips to maintain grout cleanliness:

Wipe down the grout regularly: After every shower, use a squeegee or microfiber cloth to remove excess water from the grout lines. This will help prevent mold and mildew from growing.

Keep the bathroom well-ventilated: Good airflow helps to reduce moisture buildup in the bathroom, which is essential in preventing mold and mildew on your grout.

Use a daily shower cleaner: There are many daily shower cleaners that can help keep grout and tiles clean with minimal effort. Simply spray it after each shower to prevent soap scum and stains from building up.

Avoid harsh chemicals: Some cleaners can damage grout over time. Stick to mild, non-abrasive products to preserve your grout’s integrity.

9. Maintain a Regular Cleaning Schedule

Regular cleaning of your grout will help keep your bathroom looking fresh and hygienic. Depending on how often the shower is used, consider cleaning the grout once every few weeks. Regular maintenance will also make it easier to keep the grout looking pristine and will prevent stubborn stains from forming.

Conclusion

Cleaning grout in the shower doesn’t have to be a complicated or time-consuming task. By using the right tools, cleaning solutions, and techniques, you can keep your grout looking fresh and mold-free. Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to prevent buildup, while applying a grout sealer after cleaning can prolong the life of your grout. With a little time and effort, your shower can remain sparkling clean, free from stubborn stains and discoloration.

Report this page