No. It is only safe to use on white grout.
Some professionals swear by a simple mixture of baking soda and peroxide to clean grout. Hydrogen peroxide is an acid, and baking soda is a base compound. Mixing the two together creates a reaction that can penetrate the grout lines and free dirt and debris.
By the way: Powdered soda can be used to clean grout in the same way as baking soda and baking powder. Using a steam cleaner to clean bathroom grout is the best solution if you don't want to have to scrub. The hot steam penetrates into the gaps and is a reliable way to remove dirt.
CLR is made to be safe for porcelain when used correctly, but letting it stay on the surface too long could cause damage. The acids in CLR work well to break down mineral deposits and stains, but they can wear away at surfaces if left too long.
Use on most bathroom surfaces including: porcelain, ceramic tile, shower doors, sinks, bathtubs, white grout and caulk, toilet bowls, and fiberglass. Will not remove rust. Do not use on vinyl, natural stones, mirrors, plastic laminates, wood, fabrics, painted, coated or sealed surfaces, colored grout or wall coverings.
DO not use CLR on natural stone or marble, terrazzo, colored grout, painted or metallic glazed surfaces, plastic laminates, Formica, aluminum, steam irons, leaded crystal, refinished tubs or any damaged or cracked surface.
It works on the tile and the grout, effectively cleaning everything from hard water stains to mold and mildew stains to soap scum.
Yes, hydrogen peroxide is a natural neutral cleaner that is safe to use on grout. Hydrogen peroxide and baking soda produce oxygenated bleach, which is highly effective for cleaning grout.
Grout is porous and usually sealed to resist stains. However, acid can degrade these silicone-based sealants, causing them to break down and wash away. Contrary to popular belief, this can happen with just one application of vinegar.
Make a paste by combining 2 parts powdered bleach and one part water in a bowl. Once you've achieved the consistency of toothpaste, apply the mixture to your grout lines. Let it sit there for 15 - 20 minutes, then use a brush to scrub vigorously.
DIY Grout Cleaner
Benefits: This is an easy and affordable grout cleaning option that uses everyday ingredients you likely have on hand already. You'll need baking soda, dish soap and hydrogen peroxide for this method.
If you're trying to clean grimy grout between your bathroom shower or floor tiles, then OxiClean™ bathroom cleaners are here to help! They get rid of grout stains on vertical and floor tiles for a refreshed bathroom.
Acidic Cleaners
Cleaners that have a high chemical pH or are acidic will begin to eat away at your grout and make it more fragile and porous. Stay away from cleaners that contain vinegar and citrus. This will eat away at the top layer of the grout and cause the need for replacing grout lines sooner.
“Epsom salts can work wonders on your tile grout, transforming dingy lines into sparkling seams with some scrubbing,” says Veran of Ouragami. “In a bowl, mix the Epsom salts with liquid dish soap until you form a thick paste. Apply this paste liberally to the grout lines or any dirty tiles.
Steps for removing hard water stains
After cleaning, remove the excess water but let the tile and grout area wet. Sprinkle salt over the tile and grout stains and wait for some time. Scrub the tile and grout gently using a brush. Salt breaks down the hard water stains and helps get rid of them.
DIY Grout Cleaner
Make a spreadable paste with 3/4 cup baking soda with 1/4 cup hydrogen peroxide and 1 tablespoon of mild dish soap. Add more baking soda or peroxide if the mixture is too runny or thick.
Grout pens will only temporarily cover your grout's discoloration. That's probably why they are the cheapest option available. We run into the infamous grout pen issue nearly every other week. The project usually goes awry when the homeowner applies the grout pen to the grout and some bleeds over onto the tile.
CLR may etch older sinks, tubs and tiles. CLR is corrosive. Avoid contact with wood, clothing, wallpaper and carpeting. Some laminated surfaces (counter tops) are coated with a synthetic surface which may be affected by rust removers; clean spills immediately.
Vinegar is safer to use than CLR. CLR has some strong chemicals in it, so you need to be careful when you use it.
Customers say the Zep Calcium, Lime, and Rust Stain Remover is an effective and cost-efficient alternative to more expensive brands like CLR. Many users appreciate its ability to tackle tough stains, particularly in toilets and on various surfaces affected by hard water.