Shower tile grout can quickly get dirty especially when the grout is light-colored. Water, soap scum, dirt and overall dampness all contribute to the problem.
There are a few reasons why shower tile grout may become dirty including the presence of mold and mildew, which can grow in damp, warm environments like showers. Another reason is that soap scum and dirt can accumulate in the grout lines over time. Additionally, if the grout is not sealed properly it can become stained by exposure to water, dirt, and other substances.
It’s also possible that the grout was never actually white to begin with which can make the grout look dirtier than it actually is. Keep that in mind when cleaning it. Over time, the grout can change color and you may never get it back to the original shade.
To prevent grout from becoming dirty, it’s important to keep the shower clean, dry, and properly ventilated, and to seal the grout regularly. Let’s delve into this and related topics below.
How to prevent shower grout from getting dirty
- Clean the shower regularly: Use a mild cleaning solution and a scrub brush to clean the tile and grout. This will help remove soap scum and other dirt before it has a chance to build up.
- Dry the shower after each use: Use a squeegee or a towel to dry the walls and floor of the shower after each use. This will help prevent mold and mildew growth. Also use a squeegee to wipe down the walls of excess water and then squeegee the shower floor down the drain.
- Ventilate the shower: Make sure that the shower has proper ventilation to help reduce humidity and prevent mold and mildew growth. Use the bathroom fan and keep it running for at least 10 minutes after the shower or until steam is removed.
- Seal the grout: Grout is porous, which means that it can absorb liquids and stains. To prevent this, you should seal the grout with a penetrating sealer, which will protect it from moisture, dirt and other substances.
- Use a grout protectant: Use a grout protectant on the shower floor as it will make it more resistant to dirt and stains.
- Be cautious of what you use in shower: Avoid using acidic cleaning products such as vinegar, lemon juice, and baking soda as it can erode the grout and make it more susceptible to staining over time.
By following these steps, you can help keep your shower grout clean and prevent dirt and stains from building up over time.
What cleaners to use and what to avoid
Avoid using vinegar and other acidic products on grout. While some people recommend using it, the acidity of vinegar can eat away at grout especially if is cracking or damaged.
Instead, a paste made from baking soda, hydrogen peroxide and a drop of dish liquid is a better choice. The baking soda has deodorizing properties and the hydrogen peroxide is a mild oxidizer that can be used as a cleaning agent. It works by releasing oxygen when it comes into contact with organic matter, such as bacteria, viruses, and dirt. The oxygen works to break down and remove the organic matter, effectively cleaning the surface. The dish liquid adds some soapiness and bubbles for cleaning purposes.
Use 2 parts hydrogen peroxide, 1 part baking soda and a squirt of dish liquid and mix. Scale up if you have more grout to clean.
Use can apply the paste with an old toothbrush or other soft bristle-brush to help remove dirt. Be careful not to scrub too hard and damage the grout.