Tile Grout Cleaning Hack

Jess O'Shea • October 19, 2025

The Simple Household Trick That Actually Works

Dirty grout lines can make even the cleanest bathroom or kitchen look grimy. While it might seem like you need harsh chemicals or professional equipment to get tiles sparkling again, there’s a surprisingly effective solution already in your home — baking soda.


Here’s how to clean tile grout using this common household item—and why this method works so well.


🧽 Why Grout Gets So Dirty

Grout is porous, which means it easily absorbs moisture, dirt, and spills. Over time, it traps grime, mould, and mildew—especially in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms.

That buildup doesn’t just look bad—it can also cause odours and hygiene issues if left untreated.


💡 The Grout Cleaning Hack: Baking Soda + Vinegar

Forget the bleach and expensive cleaners. All you need are three simple items:

Baking soda
White vinegar
An old toothbrush or small scrub brush

These natural cleaners work together to lift dirt, kill mould, and brighten grout without any harsh fumes.


Step-by-Step: How to Clean Tile Grout Naturally

1. Make a Paste
Mix baking soda with a small amount of water until you get a thick paste.

2. Apply to Grout Lines
Spread the paste directly onto the grout using your brush, pressing it in gently.

3. Spray with Vinegar
Pour white vinegar into a spray bottle and lightly spritz over the baking soda paste. You’ll see it fizz — that’s the reaction that helps lift grime and stains.

4. Scrub Gently
Once the fizzing stops, scrub along the grout lines. The gritty texture of baking soda helps remove buildup without scratching tiles.

5. Wipe and Rinse
Wipe away residue with a damp cloth, then rinse with warm water for a fresh, streak-free finish.


🧴 Why This Works

Baking soda acts as a mild abrasive to lift stains and grime.
🌿
Vinegar is a natural acid that kills mould, dissolves mineral deposits, and deodorises.
⚡ Together, they create a gentle chemical reaction that breaks down dirt and restores brightness.

It’s safe, eco-friendly, and perfect for both household use and workplace maintenance.


🛡️ Bonus Tip: Seal Your Grout

Once your tiles are clean, apply a grout sealer to prevent future buildup. This protective layer keeps grout looking fresh for longer and reduces how often you’ll need to deep clean.

At O’Shea Cleaning & Support Services, we recommend sealing grout after professional tile and deep cleaning for lasting results—especially in high-moisture spaces like bathrooms and commercial kitchens.


🧼 Final Thoughts

This simple grout cleaning hack is affordable, chemical-free, and uses items you probably already have in your pantry. Try it next time your tiles need a refresh—you’ll be amazed at how much brighter your bathroom or kitchen looks!

And if your grout or tiled surfaces need a serious refresh, leave it to the pros. O’Shea Cleaning & Support Services provides deep cleaning, commercial cleaning, NDIS cleaning, window cleaning, and more across Swan Hill, Lake Boga, and nearby areas.


📧 Email: enquiries@osheaservices.com.au
📞
Phone: 03 5000 1705

Because at O’Shea, we don’t just clean—we help your space shine from the ground up. 🌿

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