How to remove brown stains from grout?

Author: Mrs. Jessica Dare DVM  |  Last update: Sunday, August 31, 2025

Vinegar and Baking Soda
  1. Combine baking soda and water and create a thick paste.
  2. Apply the paste it to the stained grout.
  3. Once the paste is applied, pour or spray white vinegar over the top of it.
  4. Scrub the stained grout.
  5. Rinse and repeat as needed.

Why is my grout turning brown?

Everyday tile and grout cleaning can turn your grout dingy brown. This might sound strange, but regular cleaning of your tiled surfaces is part of the reason your grout is turning brown. When we mix household cleaners and detergents with water to clean our tile and grout, we contribute to the dinginess we see.

What is the best cleaner for brown grout?

Mix together1/2 cup of baking soda, 1/4 cup of hydrogen peroxide, and 1 teaspoon dish detergent (optional for extra dirty or greasy areas). Apply mixture onto grout, wait 5-10 minutes, scrub with a small brush, wipe away excess cleaner, and rinse with clean water.

Does magic eraser work on grout?

Magic Erasers are great for cleaning grout. They lift dirt with very little effort, even from this usually impossible site. However, the grout will eat through your Magic Eraser fast. If you're touching up the grout in a small portion of your backsplash, using Magic Erasers is perfect.

What are the brown spots on my grout?

The dark spots on grout are most likely the result of mold, mildew or plain old dirt buildup. It is important to determine what you're dealing with first, so you can wipe it out with the appropriate treatment plan. The only way to tell for sure is to ask a mold professional to collect samples and test it.

Amazing Method! Even 50 Year Old Tiler Never Seen Such Method

How to get rid of brown stains on grout?

Cleaning grout with vinegar is a popular solution to keep your bathroom shiny. Create a solution of half water and half white vinegar – you could also use brown vinegar, but it tends to have a stronger smell which you may not wish to have anywhere besides your chips.

How do you get deep stains out of grout?

Hydrogen Peroxide and Baking Soda
  1. Combine the hydrogen peroxide and baking soda and form a paste.
  2. Apply the paste to the stained or yellowed grout area.
  3. Let it sit for at least 5 minutes.
  4. Scrub with a grout brush.
  5. Rinse with water.
  6. Repeat as needed.

Does OxiClean really work on grout?

Use the stain-fighting power of OxiClean™ Foam-Tastic™ to remove crusty stains from hard water, lime and calcium—in addition to grease and dirt. Plus, Foam-Tastic™ works on more than vertical tile surfaces and grout!

Does vinegar damage tile grout?

White vinegar is an acidic solution that can etch or corrode some tiles, particularly those made from natural stone or unglazed ceramic. The acid in white vinegar can also weaken and deteriorate certain grouts over time, particularly if the grout is already damaged or in poor condition.

What do professionals use to clean 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.

Does Dawn dish soap work on grout?

If you're a die-hard DIYer, using Dawn dish soap alone can be a safer option for mild cleaning. Dilute a small amount of Dawn in warm water, scrub the grout with a soft brush, and rinse thoroughly. However, this method is less effective for tackling stubborn stains or deep-seated grime.

How do you clean dirty brown grout?

If you prefer cleaning grout with a DIY mixture, make a paste of 3/4-cup baking soda, 1/4-cup hydrogen peroxide and 1 tablespoon of mild dish soap. Apply the paste to the grout with a grout brush and scrub the grout.

Does goo gone clean grout?

Goo Gone Grout cleaner is specially formulated to easily remove dirt that's built-up over time. It works on the tile and the grout, effectively cleaning everything from hard water stains to mold and mildew stains to soap scum.

Can you clean Discoloured grout?

Mix the bicarbonate of soda and water to make a paste. Apply this solution directly to discoloured grout using either a stiff-bristled brush or your fingers.

Does hydrogen peroxide damage grout?

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.

How to fix discoloured grout?

Hydrogen peroxide has so many uses, and it's especially good at brightening discoloured grout. Unlike vinegar, which can corrode the grout over time, hydrogen peroxide is a gentle disinfectant that is non-toxic – when used correctly. To clean grout, simply pour undiluted hydrogen peroxide into a spray bottle.

What is the best homemade grout cleaner?

Combine equal parts hydrogen peroxide and baking soda on the spot you want to clean. It should be making a sizzle sound as the chemicals interact. Then, start scrubbing. The paste should turn foamy, like watery shaving cream.

How long to leave OxiClean on grout?

APPLY using a cloth, sponge, brush or by pouring solution directly onto surface. LET STAND 5-30 min. Scrub as needed. Note: for large surfaces, work with small areas, so solution does not dry on the surface.

Does baking soda whiten grout?

Baking soda is a safe deodorizer, whitener, and household cleaner—and it's an effective natural grout cleaner. Because baking soda is also a mild abrasive, using it for cleaning grout lines gives you extra firepower without the risk of scratching your tile.

Does bleach ruin grout?

The long-term use of bleach on grout can lead to several adverse effects. As an oxidizing agent, bleach can weaken the cement binding the grout, reducing its durability. Additionally, it can cause discoloration, leading to an uneven and blotchy appearance.

Can grout be permanently stained?

Permanence: Staining grout is permanent, so you want to ensure you're satisfied with your color choice first. Preparation and Maintenance: Proper surface preparation and maintenance are crucial for a successful outcome. Requires Expertise: It's typically a job that requires the help of a professional or skilled person.

What should you not use to clean grout?

Chemical cleaners, such as, Tilex, Soft Scrub, Scrubbing Bubbles, or ammonia products will nearly always result in your tile surfaces' grout becoming very discolored.

How do you remove dark spots from grout?

The active ingredient in bleach, sodium hypochlorite, has fungicidal properties that can destroy the structure of mold and its spores, effectively killing it. In addition to killing the mold, bleach can also help remove the discoloration or staining left behind by the mold.

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