To comprehensively prevent mold growth on grout, it's important to combine grout sealer with proper bathroom or shower maintenance practices. This includes adequate ventilation, regular cleaning to remove organic matter that mold feeds on, prompt repair of leaks, and the use of mold-resistant products where applicable.
Grout will darken when it absorbs water. Even if the grout is sealed, a small bit of water may pool in some areas causing the grout in that area to appear darker on a regular basis. Squeegee the shower after using, otherwise you'll have to pull and replace tile to fix any low spots on the shower floor.
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.
Vinegar Soak: Create a potent mildew-fighting solution by soaking a cloth or sponge in undiluted white vinegar. Place the saturated cloth over the moldy grout and let it sit for several hours or overnight. The acidic nature of vinegar helps break down mildew, making it easier to scrub away.
If you can get on a regular cleaning schedule to scrub the grout and tile, you'll be ahead of the game in stopping black mold from forming in the first place.
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.
Mold thrives in moist areas, so it's no wonder your bathroom is an easy spot for it to appear. Leave your shower door or curtain open after a shower to give the space a greater opportunity to dry out. You can also use a squeegee to really get rid of the water. Seal your grout.
The other condition that can cause grout to turn white or cloudy is if water is trapped under the tile and the grout is sealed with a non-breathing sealer. If this is the case then you have to remove the sealer if it is a surface sealer. If the sealer is deep into the grout then you might have to replace the grout.
Steam cleaning is one of the most powerful ways to clean grout without the use of harsh chemicals. Professionals often use steam to loosen the dirt and other particles trapped in the grout without needing to scrub manually.
Solution: Baking Soda
It kills black mold and absorbs moisture that attracts mold. Combine ½ cup of baking soda with just enough water to make a paste. Apply the paste to the affected area and let it dry. Use a soft bristle brush to remove the dried paste.
It's important to remember that black grout can be very messy and difficult to clean up. Grout is similar to kinetic sand in texture—it's gritty, and it can go everywhere, even with the most experienced professional. And because there's such a contrast between the tile and grout color-wise, any mistake will stand out.
A pre-mixed, ready-to-use, mild acid solution. Removes dried Portland cement grout haze and mortar residue from tile, concrete and masonry.
To seal to perfection, we recommend using Universeal Grout and Tile Protector. This product is a solvent based sealer designed to deeply penetrate your grout. It is effective in preventing stains from oil and water-based liquids and it will not discolour your tiles.
Mix one part bleach with three parts warm water in a spray bottle. Make sure you're in a well-ventilated space (turn on the fan to help air circulation) and have your gloves on. Spray the mixture on the mold-infested areas and leave it for an hour.
Chemical cleaners, such as, Tilex, Soft Scrub, Scrubbing Bubbles, or ammonia products will nearly always result in your tile surfaces' grout becoming very discolored.
As a cleaning paste, mix 1/2 cup baking soda with 1/4 cup hydrogen peroxide. You can recycle a squeeze bottle with a nozzle for easier application! Spread the paste over the grout and let it sit for at least 5 minutes. Then use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub the grout until it's clean.
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.
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.