If your grout is stained and full of mold, don't worry! You can clean moldy grout quickly and easily with the methods outlined in this blog post.
Grout is a porous material that can easily become stained and accumulate dirt and mold over time. Cleaning your grout regularly will help keep it looking fresh and new.
This blog post will discuss two methods for cleaning moldy grout: bleach and baking soda. We will also provide tips for preventing future staining and mold growth.
If your grout is looking a little moldy, don't worry! You can clean it quickly and easily with these simple steps.Click To TweetIs moldy grout dangerous?
Mold is a fungus that can grow in damp, humid environments. While most types of mold are not dangerous, some can release spores into the air that can cause respiratory problems for people with allergies or asthma.
It's important to clean moldy grout as soon as possible to prevent the spread of spores.
Why does grout get stained?
If you've ever had to clean moldy grout, you know how frustrating it can be. No matter how much elbow grease you put into it, the stains don't want to budge. But why does grout get stained in the first place?
There are a few reasons why grout can become stained.
First, if the grout is not sealed correctly, it can absorb moisture from the air and become discolored. Second, if there is dirt or debris on the surface of the grout, it can stain the material. Finally, using cleaners that are too harsh on the grout can also cause staining.
Also, mold and mildew can grow on grout if not cleaned regularly. Mold and mildew thrive in damp, dark environments, so if your grout is not dry or there is dirt and debris on the surface, they will have a perfect breeding ground.
So now that we know why grout gets stained let's talk about how to clean it!
Using Bleach To Clean Moldy Grout
Cleaning grout can be a real pain. It's hard to reach, and it's easy to miss spots. Even when you think you've cleaned it thoroughly, mold and mildew can quickly build up again. That's why bleach is such a valuable tool for keeping grout clean.
However, it is also a harsh chemical that can damage your grout if misused. It would be best if you only used bleach in severe cases of mold growth since overusing it can damage your grout and make it more susceptible to future staining.
To clean your grout with bleach, you will need:
- A bucket
- Water
- Bleach
- A sponge or brush
- Baking soda (optional)
Simply mix equal parts of water and bleach in a spray bottle, and spritz the solution onto your grout. Let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub with a brush or toothbrush. Rinse the area with clean water, and let it air dry.
You should see a noticeable difference in the cleanliness of your grout. For best results, repeat this process once a week or as needed.
Optional bleach and baking soda mixture
In addition, you can make a paste of bleach and baking soda to scrub the grout.
To do this, mix ¼ cup of bleach with ½ cup baking soda. It will make a paste that you can apply to the grout and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing with a brush. Rinse the area with clean water when you are finished.
If you decide to use bleach, be sure to protect your hands and eyes with gloves and goggles. You should also ventilate the area by opening windows or using a fan.
Using Baking Soda To Clean Moldy Grout
Cleaning grout can be a tricky business. You want to eliminate all the dirt and grime build-up, but you don't want to damage the delicate surface. Baking soda and vinegar is a safe and effective way to clean grout.
The baking soda will scrub away the dirt, while the vinegar will kill any mold or mildew that might be present.
To clean your grout with this method, you will need:
- A bowl or cup
- Water
- Baking soda
- Vinegar or hydrogen peroxide
- A sponge or brush
To use this method, mix equal parts of baking soda and vinegar into a paste. Apply the paste to the grout, and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Then, use a brush to scrub the grout lines back and forth. Rinse with water, and enjoy your freshly cleaned grout!
Other grout mold removal methods
In addition to bleach and baking soda, there are a few other household items that you can use to remove mold from grout.
For example, you can try using lemon juice or rubbing alcohol. Simply apply the lemon juice or alcohol to the grout with a sponge or brush and scrub until the mold is gone.
If nothing is working, you can always call a professional to clean your grout for you.
Preventing Future Stains And Mold Growth
Now that you know how to clean moldy grout, it's time to focus on preventing future stains and mold growth. Here are a few tips:
Clean your grout regularly
Weekly cleaning should suffice, but you may need to clean more often if your tile sees a lot of traffic. This will help remove any dirt or grime that could lead to staining.
Use a grout sealer
This will help prevent dirt and stains from penetrating the surface of the grout. Grout sealer can be applied after cleansing and should be reapplied every few months.
Avoid using harsh chemicals
Harsh chemicals can damage your grout and make it more susceptible to staining. If you must use a chemical cleaner, rinse the area well afterward. Also, test the cleaner in a small area before using it on the entire surface.
Keep your tile dry
After showering or cleaning, wipe down the tile and allow it to air dry completely. Keep a towel or squeegee on hand to dry the area if necessary.
Hang your mats
Be sure to hang your bath mats or towels up to dry after use. This will help prevent moisture from seeping into the grout and causing mold growth.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning grout can be a tough job, but it's important to do on a regular basis. By following the tips in this blog post, you can keep your grout looking clean and new for years to come. Happy cleaning!
Great info!
This is great advice, thank you so much for sharing! I did not know that there was such a thing as a grout sealer, what a great way to keep it clean after a deep cleaning.
Yes! Grout sealer is a must to keep your grout looking new instead of returning to that old moldy grout look.
I use hydrogen peroxide, I’d love to use bleach but the window is stuck shut in the bathroom so the fumes can’t get out. So the peroxide seems to work okay for me.
Ahh yeah. It’s best to have good ventilation when cleaning moldy grout with bleach.