Baking soda mixed with water into a paste can whiten badly stained grout in as little as 10 minutes, according to tile experts. The natural household staple is recommended over white vinegar, which bathroom specialists warn can damage grout over time.
Why vinegar is not recommended
While white vinegar is often suggested as a natural cleaner, bathroom experts at Duravit advise against using it on grout. They said: "This household remedy isn’t really suitable for cleaning grout in the bathroom because vinegar, due to its corrosive properties, attacks the grout and can make it porous over time."
Instead, they recommend baking soda as a superior kitchen staple for the job.
How to whiten grout with baking soda
According to Duravit, baking soda is a "tried-and-true method" for cleaning stained bathroom grout. First, mix it with water to create a thick paste. Apply this paste to the grout and let it sit for about an hour. It can then be rinsed off with water, and any remaining dirt can be wiped away with a cloth.
Experts at Hyerion Tiles also favour baking soda for cleaning grout but claim the paste only needs to sit for 10 minutes before scrubbing. They said: "A paste of baking soda and water is a gentle yet surprisingly effective cleaner for mild to moderate stains. Its mild abrasiveness helps lift dirt and grime."
Preparation and aftercare
No matter which natural cleaning method you choose, pre-clean the tiled surface first. This removes loose dirt and debris, allowing the cleaning solution to work effectively on the grout.
Households should always ensure good ventilation when cleaning by opening a window or using a fan. After cleaning, rinse the grout with clean water to remove any residue and leave your tiles sparkling.
Hyerion Tiles added: "This can effectively clean mild to moderate staining without damaging the grout. It's a great starting point for regular grout maintenance too." These simple steps will deliver the best cleaning results and protect your tiles and grout in the long run.
