How to Clean Grout with Vinegar and Baking Soda
Tired of scrubbing grout lines and still seeing yellow stains or black mold spots?
You are not the only one. Dirty grout can make even a sparkling bathroom or kitchen look unhygienic. The good news is that you do not need harsh chemicals to fix it. With two simple ingredients from your kitchen ‘vinegar and baking soda’, you can clean grout safely and effectively.
In this step-by-step guide, you will learn how to restore tile grout using a natural, low-cost method, plus expert tips to keep it clean longer.
Why Grout Gets So Dirty
Grout is a porous material. That means it soaks in water, dirt, soap residue, and grease easily. This leads to:
- Mold and mildew growth in bathrooms
- Greasy buildup in kitchen backsplashes
- Discoloration from spills and foot traffic
- Soap scum and hard water stains
Tiles may look clean, but if grout is dirty, the entire space appears dull and unhygienic.
Ingredients and Tools You Will Need
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Baking soda | Mild abrasive to lift dirt and stains |
| White vinegar | Natural acid to dissolve mineral buildup |
| Warm water | To dilute vinegar for safe use |
| Toothbrush or grout brush | Scrubbing into grout lines |
| Spray bottle | For applying vinegar solution |
| Microfiber cloth | For wiping off residue |
| (Optional) Gloves | To protect your hands |
| (Optional) Hydrogen peroxide | For deeper stains or natural stone areas |
Step-by-Step: How to Clean Grout with Vinegar and Baking Soda
Step 1: Make a Baking Soda Paste
- In a small bowl, mix 3 tablespoons of baking soda with 1 tablespoon of water
- Stir until a thick paste forms
- Apply this paste directly to grout lines using a toothbrush
Step 2: Spray Vinegar Solution
- Fill a spray bottle with equal parts white vinegar and warm water
- Spray over the baking soda paste
- It will start to fizz as the vinegar reacts with the baking soda
- Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes
Step 3: Scrub and Rinse
- Scrub the grout in circular motion using a brush
- Wipe off with a damp microfiber cloth
- Rinse the area if needed to remove residue
When to Use an Alternative Method
Sometimes vinegar and baking soda might not be enough, especially on:
- Old, deeply stained grout
- Natural stone tiles (vinegar is not safe)
In such cases, use hydrogen peroxide and baking soda instead. It is safe for more delicate surfaces and works as a natural whitener.
Comparison Table: DIY Grout Cleaners
| Solution | Best For | Avoid On | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baking Soda + Vinegar | Regular stains, bathrooms | Natural stone tiles | Budget-friendly, effective combo |
| Baking Soda + Hydrogen Peroxide | Deep-set stains, whitening grout | Use with gloves | Great for white grout restoration |
| Lemon Juice + Baking Soda | Light discoloration, fresh scent | Not for mold or mildew | Leaves fresh lemon fragrance |
| Oxygen Bleach (OxiClean) | Heavy-duty tile floors | Colored grout if unsure | Needs rinsing after application |
Extra Tips for Best Results
- Clean grout once a month to avoid build-up
- Use a spray of vinegar and water after each shower
- Avoid bar soap, which causes soap scum. Use liquid soap instead
- For large areas, consider a drill scrub brush attachment
Do Not Forget Grout Sealing
Once cleaned, unsealed grout will quickly absorb moisture and get dirty again. Use a grout sealer to protect it.
How to Seal Grout:
- Let the grout dry for 24 to 48 hours after cleaning
- Use a sealer with a narrow applicator or small brush
- Wipe off excess from tile surface
- Reapply every 6 to 12 months
You may also like this: How to Clean Grout with Vinegar and Baking Soda
Frequently Asked Questions
Is vinegar safe for all grout types?
No. Avoid using vinegar on natural stone tiles like marble or granite. Use hydrogen peroxide instead.
How can I keep my grout white long-term?
Seal your grout after cleaning. Also, wipe tiled surfaces regularly and avoid letting water or soap sit for too long.
Can this method remove black mold?
It helps remove surface mold, but for deeper mold, use hydrogen peroxide or call a professional.
How long does this cleaning method take?
About 20 to 30 minutes depending on the size of the area and severity of stains.
Final Thoughts
Grout cleaning does not require expensive store-bought chemicals. With just vinegar, baking soda, and a bit of elbow grease, you can bring back the shine to your tiles and feel proud of your space again. Try this method once and you will never go back to chemical sprays.
