Cleaning fans have shared their top tips for getting rid of mould in grout, and it turns out you only need two common kitchen items to get your tiles looking as good as new
Battling mould in your home can feel like a never-ending struggle. The fungus thrives in damp conditions, and many homeowners discover it lurking in their bathrooms after steam from hot showers creates condensation on tiles and other cold surfaces.
Anyone who’s tackled mould in their bathroom or elsewhere in their property will understand just how challenging it can be to eliminate. But there’s one particular spot where removing mould proves nearly impossible – tile grout. Grout is a cement- or resin-based substance used to seal the spaces between bathroom tiles.
Yet traditional cement-based grout is naturally porous, leaving it susceptible to staining and mould development as liquids such as water can penetrate the material through microscopic openings on its surface.
Removing mould from grout can prove a monumental challenge, as the fungus can sometimes become embedded within the grout itself – particularly if it has developed in areas where water has seeped through the material.
Nevertheless, according to cleaning enthusiasts on Facebook, certain household products can be employed to tackle mould and other marks from grout.
One member of a group dedicated to cleaning expert Mrs. Hinch sought advice on the “best way to whiten grout”.
She wondered whether baking soda would be effective, or if she should purchase a specialist grout pen instead.
Fellow members were swift to offer suggestions, with many recommending two everyday kitchen staples that most households already possess: baking soda and white vinegar. One individual shared: “Baking soda paste really does work. When it’s been sitting for a while, squirt with white vinegar. It brought the grout in my shower up really well.”
Another chimed in: “Avoid bleach for anything you want to stay white. It yellows everything. Use baking soda and vinegar.”
Others claimed grout pens haven’t been effective for them, but some swore by the “grout reviving” pens, which can be picked up for around £5 from Dunelm and Amazon.
How to clean mould from tile grout
1. Ventilate the Area: Open windows or turn on a fan to keep the area well-ventilated.
2. Make a Cleaning Solution:
- Option 1: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
- Option 2: For tougher mould, use hydrogen peroxide (3%) undiluted in a spray bottle.
- Option 3: Make a paste of baking soda and water.
3. Apply the Solution: Spray the vinegar or hydrogen peroxide directly onto the mouldy grout. If using baking soda paste, spread it onto the grout with a brush.
4. Let It Sit: Allow the solution to sit for at least 10–15 minutes. This helps break down the mould.
5. Scrub the Grout: Use your scrub brush or toothbrush to scrub the grout lines thoroughly.
6. Rinse: Wipe the area with a clean, damp cloth or sponge to remove residue.
7. Repeat if Needed: For stubborn mould, repeat the process or use a commercial mould remover or a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water). Never mix bleach with vinegar or ammonia.
8. Dry the Area: Mould thrives in moisture, so dry the grout and tiles thoroughly after cleaning.