Grout is like that quiet kid in the corner—it doesn’t get noticed until something’s wrong. You might mop your floors or wipe your tiles, but if the grout lines are stained, everything still looks dirty. The good news? You don’t need fancy cleaners or harsh chemicals to revive grout. Just a few items from your kitchen, five minutes of prep, and a little elbow grease.
Here’s how to make a quick, cheap, and effective grout-cleaning paste—and how to use it right.
What You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup baking soda
- 1/4 cup hydrogen peroxide
- 1 teaspoon dish soap
- An old toothbrush or small scrub brush
- A rag or sponge
- Warm water
Step 1: Mix the Paste
In a small bowl, combine the baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and dish soap. Stir it into a thick paste. The baking soda scrubs, the peroxide brightens, and the dish soap helps break down grease and grime: simple science, no fuss.
Step 2: Apply the Paste to the Grout
Scoop up the paste with your brush and spread it directly onto the grout lines. Don’t worry about being neat—just make sure each line is coated. Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes. This gives the ingredients time to lift dirt and stains.
Step 3: Scrub It Down
Use your brush to scrub along the grout lines in small circles. You’ll see the grime start to loosen. Keep a damp rag nearby to wipe away paste and dirt as you go.
Step 4: Rinse and Wipe
Once you’ve scrubbed all the grout, use warm water and a clean rag or sponge to wipe it down. This removes leftover paste and any gunk it pulled out. If needed, go over stubborn spots a second time.
Optional Step: Seal It (for Next Time)
If you want to keep your grout cleaner longer, consider applying a grout sealer once everything’s dry. It’s an extra step, but it helps prevent future buildup.
That’s it—no bleach, no gimmicks, no overpriced sprays. Just a few pantry basics and a little time. Next time your tile looks tired, don’t reach for a chemical cocktail. Mix up this homemade grout paste and bring those lines back to life the simple way. Your floors (and your nose) will thank you.