Grout, a mixture of water, cement, and sand, is used to fill the gaps between tiles. Over time, grout can become discolored and stained, making it look unsightly.
Hydrogen peroxide is a good choice for cleaning tile grout but in case you don’t have it on hand, don’t worry. A grout cleaning solution can be made using baking soda and vinegar, providing a natural alternative for restoring the look of your tile grout.
This article will guide you through the process of making a grout cleaner without hydrogen peroxide.
Let’s begin.
What You’ll Need:
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Water
- A clean cloth or brush
- A spray bottle (optional)
Steps:
- Mix a paste of baking soda and water. Start with a small amount of water and add more as needed to make a thick paste.
- Apply the paste to the stained grout, spreading it evenly with a cloth or brush.
- Let the paste sit for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Combine equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle (if using one), or a bowl.
- Spray the vinegar solution onto the grout or use a cloth to apply it.
- Scrub the grout with a brush or cloth, paying special attention to the stained areas.
- Rinse the grout thoroughly with water to remove any residual cleaning solution.
Things to Watch Out For and Avoid:
- Avoid using abrasive or harsh scrubbing tools that can scratch the tiles or damage the grout.
- Do not leave the cleaning solution on the grout for too long as it can cause deterioration.
- Avoid using a steam cleaner or pressure washers as the high heat and pressure can cause the grout to crack.
- If the tile grouts are sealed, make sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions before cleaning. Some tile grout sealers can be damaged by some cleaners, so it’s important to choose a cleaning solution that’s compatible with the grout.
- If the tile grouts are not sealed, use caution when using baking soda or consider avoiding it altogether. Baking soda’s abrasive nature can potentially damage unsealed concrete tile grouts. Additionally, be mindful of the amount of time that the vinegar solution is left on the grout, as it can cause damage if left on for too long on unsealed surfaces.
Important Reminders:
Before using any cleaning solution, it’s important to test a small, inconspicuous area of the tiles to make sure that it won’t cause any damage.
Additionally, some surfaces and grout may be sensitive to acidic substances such as vinegar, so it’s important to use caution and avoid contact with these surfaces.
As always, wear gloves and protect your skin and eyes from the cleaning solution.
Conclusion:
With these simple steps, you can easily make a homemade grout cleaner without using hydrogen peroxide. This solution is safe, effective, and affordable, making it a great alternative to store-bought grout cleaners.
Instead of using harsh chemicals, you can make a homemade grout cleaner using natural ingredients. Regular cleaning and maintenance of your grout will help keep your tiles looking their best.
Want to clean using hydrogen peroxide instead? See How to Clean Tile Grout with Hydrogen Peroxide.
Thanks for reading.
-Baking Soda Guy
Image by Brett Hondow from Pixabay
