What to do if you hate grout color?

Author: Elijah King PhD  |  Last update: Thursday, June 5, 2025

There are two ways you can change the colour of your grout. You can either remove the old and replace it with new, or you can dye your existing grout.

What if I don't like my grout color?

The only thing you can do to immediately even out the color, and/ or change its shade, would be to use a grout colorant. You can change any color to any other color, and in so doing, make the grout easier to keep clean and, at the same time permanently seal it.

Can you change grout color after it dries?

Yes, the color can be changed. He's referring to grout colorant which will change he grout color; it's basically painted on. Most grout lines have one.

How to touch up grout color?

Improving horrible grout color
  • Clean the grout thoroughly, and let dry
  • Paint on the Grout Refresh
  • After an hour mist it with water
  • Remove the excess with a white nylon pad
  • Let dry for 24 hours before getting it wet
  • Let it cure for another several weeks before scrubbing

How can I match my existing grout color?

Get samples or a color chart of new grout and hold it next to your existing grout. If you can salvage a chunk of existing grout from under a baseboard next to a wall, this is the best way to start the matching process.

Best Way to Change Grout Color

How do you fix mismatched grout?

To remediate this type of problem to make the grout to be more consistent in color there are products called "grout colorants" that are epoxy based and match some of the typical grout colors. After properly preparing the existing grout joint you paint it over the joint which could be a bit tedious of a process.

Will vinegar darken grout?

However, the grout issue remains the same as that of ceramic tiles. Impact on Grout: Even a single application of vinegar can begin to break down the sealant on your grout. As the sealant degrades, dirt and moisture penetrate, leading to discoloration and staining.

Does grout recoloring work?

And not just new —color sealing can completely change your grout to virtually any color you choose. The benefit of this is obvious. Are you considering new decor, an updated, fresher look or more contemporary colors? Your existing grout doesn't need to hold you back or limit your choices.

Do grout pens work?

This really works! The grouting around the tiles in our kitchen and bathroom was looking very tried with several black damp spots. The grout pen covered it all in one coat and was very simple and quick to use. We added an extra coat on the very stained sections and now it all looks like fresh grouting.

Can you touch up grouting?

You can apply new grout right over the top of the old grout. To do this, all you need is a grout removal tool. Use the tool to strike out the old grout, making sure the depth is at least 2mm, which is about the thickness of two dimes stacked one on top of the other.

Does grout get lighter or darker as it dries?

Does Grout Usually Dry Lighter or Darker? Grout will dry lighter than it appears when wet. It's a good idea to sample a range of shades of the color grout you're looking for and test them to see how they appear once dried.

Is it expensive to change grout color?

Changing grout color is an inexpensive DIY project. If you're painting the grout with a colorant, the supplies should cost you less than $40.

Can you change grout color once it's already down?

Dirt, mold, and mildew build up over time, and the grout darkens. If the existing tile grout has become dirty or discolored—or if you just want a new look—it is possible to change the color of the grout. Coloring grout freshens up the entire tile layout, all without having to replace the tile.

Does too much water change grout color?

Some of the things that can cause color variation include: Too much water added in mixing the grout. Improper cleaning of the grout and grout haze off the tile (usually by wiping too soon and with too much water). Leaving plastic spacers in the joints.

Is dark grout outdated?

Tile with dark grout is becoming increasingly popular in many design styles, from modern farmhouse bathroom walls to minimalistic kitchen backsplashes.

Can I put new grout over old grout?

Can you grout over grout? It is highly recommended to remove your old and damaged grout before applying new grout.

Does grout paint actually work?

It offers limited stain resistance. Many people will choose the paint option when the grout is not structurally intact. Painting over crumbling grout will only mask the problem and your grout will continue to worsen, making your DIY paint job a waste of time and money.

What to do if grout is wrong color?

Replacing grout is certainly one way to fix the problem. Instead, use UltraCare Grout Refresh, a water-based color seal, available in 40 standard grout colors. It's made for refreshing the look of old, discolored grout, or completely changing the color of the existing grout.

Can you paint Discoloured grout?

It's highly recommended to never, ever paint over discolored grout. As it pertains to many do-it-yourself projects, a fresh coat of paint can do wonders!

Can you stain grout to change color?

Can You Stain Grout a Different Color? Yes, you can absolutely stain grout a different color.

What to do if grout is too dark?

Remove and Replace Grout

The most thorough and complete solution is to remove the grout and install new, grout in the color of your choice. In small areas, such as backsplashes and tub or shower surrounds, this project can be less difficult than you might imagine.

Will hydrogen peroxide lighten grout?

As there's colorant involved, one of the main rules about treating colored grout is simple: Avoid bleach. Note that this includes hydrogen peroxide, which has mild bleaching effects.

Why is my grout still dark after cleaning?

Ammonia and bleached-based grout cleaning solutions can strip the color from your grout, causing an irregular appearance. Conversely, cleaning agents might settle into the pores of your grout and act like a magnetic force for dirt and grime, causing a dark, dull appearance. It's a common mistake.

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