How to Clean Bathroom Grout (and Keep It White)
Dirty grout is the fastest way to make an otherwise spotless bathroom look neglected. Saskatoon's hard water makes this worse — mineral deposits build up in grout lines and trap soap scum. Here's how to get it back to white.
What You'll Need
- Baking soda
- Hydrogen peroxide (3%)
- An old toothbrush or grout brush
- White vinegar (for follow-up)
- Microfiber cloth
- Rubber gloves
Step 1: Make a Grout-Cleaning Paste
Mix 3 tablespoons of baking soda with 1 tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide. The peroxide is the secret — it's a gentle bleaching agent that lifts staining without damaging the grout.
Step 2: Apply to Grout Lines
Use the toothbrush to scoop the paste and apply it directly to grout lines. Cover problem areas generously.
Step 3: Let It Sit
Walk away for 15–20 minutes. The longer the paste sits, the more lifting power.
Step 4: Scrub
Scrub each grout line with the toothbrush. Use a small back-and-forth motion. You'll see grimy water collecting — that's the dirt lifting out.
Step 5: Rinse
Rinse the entire area with clean water. Wipe with a microfiber cloth. Stand back and admire.
For Stubborn Mildew
Heavy mildew or mould? Make a stronger paste with 1 part bleach to 3 parts baking soda. Apply, let sit 10 minutes, scrub, and rinse VERY thoroughly. Use bleach only with ventilation, gloves, and never mix it with vinegar or ammonia.
Preventing Grout Stains
- Squeegee the shower after every use — takes 30 seconds, prevents 90% of soap scum
- Ventilate — run the bathroom fan during and after showers
- Re-seal grout every 1–2 years — sealed grout repels stains
- Spray with vinegar weekly — lightly mist grout lines, let sit 10 minutes, rinse
When to Re-Grout
If grout is crumbling, cracked, or has gaps you can see through, it's past cleaning. Time to re-grout (or hire a tile pro). Re-grouting is a Saturday DIY project that protects your bathroom from water damage.
Let Us Do It
Our deep cleaning service includes grout detail. Call 306-700-6576.