Switching to homemade grout and tile cleaners is not only easy but also budget-friendly. You probably already have most of what you need at home. In my experience, these natural solutions often work better than many of the store-bought options, and you won’t have to worry about exposing your kids to harsh chemicals after cleaning.
I’m a big supporter of homemade cleaning recipes, which came out of necessity for me when I first moved into my own home. It needed a lot of DIY work, but I decided to keep the vintage tile in the bathroom since it was a pleasant light blue. Unfortunately, the grout and tile came with an unwanted mold issue. Using these natural cleaning recipes, I managed to tackle the mold problem effectively.
Store-bought grout cleaners can be harsh, often leaving behind chemical residues. While they might claim to clean without scrubbing, I’m not shy about putting in some effort with natural cleaners. Some DIY hacks suggest using toilet bowl cleaner on grout, but these can cause long-term damage due to harsh chemicals. Similarly, while bleach can fade mold, it doesn’t kill it. Plus, with children in the house, bleach isn’t a safe option.
So, what’s a mom trying to avoid grime and buildup on shower tiles to do? While lemon juice and Dawn dish soap are popular, I’ve come up with effective natural cleaning solutions using ingredients you likely already have.
Before you dive into cleaning dirty tile and grout, keep in mind that materials like marble and stone are sensitive to acids and need gentle care. A solution of filtered water and a bit of castile soap is ideal for these. For porcelain tiles, baking soda and hydrogen peroxide make a great homemade cleaner. Remember to wear rubber gloves and use a grout brush or an old toothbrush. Let the cleaning mixture sit for about 15 minutes before scrubbing for better results. If the mess isn’t too bad, a sponge might do the trick.
Take care not to over-scrub old grout, as this can make it chip and crumble. It’s essential to seal grout as needed since it’s naturally porous. Experts suggest resealing in high-traffic areas like the main shower and bathroom every 6-12 months, while less-used spaces can be resealed every couple of years. Damaged grout should be replaced to prevent mold and mildew, protecting the area behind the tile.
If you see mold growing on grout, it might indicate a more serious problem. Check for any damage and see if the grout or tile needs replacing and resealing. For mold stains on grout, mix equal parts of hydrogen peroxide (3%) and water in a spray bottle. Saturate the grout, wait 45 minutes, and then wipe with a sponge and rinse. Adding a few drops of tea tree oil to this mix can be helpful.
Have you tried making your own tile or grout cleaner? How did it turn out?
