Grout collects soap residue, body oils, dust, and moisture. The trick is getting it cleaner without digging the grout out with harsh scrubbing.

Supplies

• Baking soda
• Warm water
• White vinegar for a separate rinse step
• Old toothbrush or grout brush
• Dry cloth

Method

1. Make a baking soda paste.
2. Work it gently into the grout lines.
3. Let it sit for 10 minutes.
4. Scrub with a small brush.
5. Wipe away residue.
6. If needed, spray a little vinegar after the scrub to lift the last film.
7. Dry the area well.

When grout needs more than cleaning

If grout is crumbling, missing, or staying dark because water is trapped under the surface, cleaning alone will not solve it. Re-grouting or sealing may be needed.

Mistakes to avoid

• scrubbing so hard that the grout erodes
• leaving the floor wet after cleaning
• assuming every dark line is mold instead of wear

Granny’s bottom line

Grout likes gentle cleaning and good drying. If it is falling apart, stop scrubbing and plan a repair.