How to Clean Grout on Backsplash

Introduction

Keeping your backsplash and grout clean can be a challenge, but it helps maintain the beauty and extend the life of your backsplash. Over time, grease, grime, and dirt can build up in the grout lines, making your backsplash look dingy and dull. Regular cleaning and sealing are key to preventing stains and keeping the grout looking fresh.

In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss multiple effective methods for cleaning grout on your backsplash, as well as tips for maintenance and prevention. With the right techniques and products, you can have your backsplash grout looking like new again.

Supplies Needed

Before starting the cleaning process, you will need to gather the proper supplies:

Grout brush – A brush with stiff bristles designed to get into grout lines. Look for a brush with a pointed tip.
Vacuum cleaner – Use the brush attachment to vacuum up dirt and debris before cleaning.
Cleaning solutions – Options include vinegar, baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, ammonia, bleach, and commercial grout cleaners.
Spray bottle – For applying cleaning solutions directly to the grout. Use a narrow nozzle for precision.
Microfiber cloths
Old toothbrush – For scrubbing grout in tight spaces.
Bucket
Rubber gloves
Grout sealer (recommended)
Rags
Eye protection (when using chemicals)

Cleaning Methods

There are several effective methods and cleaning solutions you can use to clean dirty grout. Consider the severity of staining and whether you have sealed or unsealed grout to choose the best option.

Baking Soda and Vinegar

Making a paste with baking soda and vinegar is one of the simplest ways to clean grout. The combination of the alkaline baking soda and acidic vinegar can help break down grime and lift stains.

How to clean:

Sweep or vacuum the backsplash to remove any loose dirt or debris.
Mix a paste of 1 part baking soda to 1 part vinegar in a bowl. The mixture will bubble and fizz.
Apply the paste to the grout lines using an old toothbrush or grout brush.
Let the paste sit for 5-10 minutes so it can work on the dirt.
Scrub the grout vigorously with your brush. Apply more paste if needed.
Wipe away the paste with a damp microfiber cloth.
Rinse the backsplash with clean water and dry with a towel.

The baking soda and vinegar method works well for light dirt and stains. For tougher grime, try letting the paste sit longer before scrubbing. You may need to repeat the process several times for heavily soiled grout.

Hydrogen Peroxide

As a mild bleach, hydrogen peroxide can help whiten and disinfect grout. Be sure to test it first, as it can also lighten some grout colors.

How to use hydrogen peroxide:

Vacuum or sweep the backsplash.
Mix a solution of 1 part hydrogen peroxide to 2 parts water in a spray bottle.
Liberally spray the solution onto the grout lines.
Allow it to sit for at least 10 minutes.
Scrub with a stiff grout brush.
Wipe away with a clean, dry cloth.
Rinse thoroughly.

Hydrogen peroxide works well for whitening dingy or stained grout. Repeat the process for heavy staining.

Ammonia

For deep cleaning heavily soiled grout, ammonia is an effective degreaser. Ensure proper ventilation and never mix ammonia with bleach solutions.

To clean with ammonia:

Protect surfaces and wear gloves, as ammonia can damage surfaces.
Apply a 50/50 solution of ammonia and water directly to the grout.
Let sit for several minutes.
Scrub with a stiff grout brush or old toothbrush.
Wipe away residue with clean water and dry thoroughly.

Use ammonia sparingly and rinse thoroughly, as it can damage some surfaces. Never mix ammonia and bleach. This method works on severely dirty grout.

Bleach

For mold and mildew stains, chlorine bleach can help remove and disinfect grout. Ensure your grout and backsplash can withstand bleach before using.

To clean grout with bleach:

Sweep or vacuum loose debris first.
Apply full-strength bleach directly to the grout with a spray bottle.
Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes.
Scrub vigorously with a stiff grout brush.
Wipe away residue with clean water and dry thoroughly.

Repeat as needed for tough stains. Rinse thoroughly and open windows for ventilation. Never mix bleach and ammonia.

Steam Cleaner

For deep, thorough cleaning, a steam cleaner is highly effective on greasy, dirty grout. The pressurized hot steam helps loosen and lift dirt from the grout pores.

To clean grout with a steam cleaner:

Vacuum or sweep loose debris from the backsplash first.
Treat any heavy stains first with a cleaning solution.
Using a grout attachment, steam over the grout lines, holding the nozzle close to the surface.
Wipe with a clean cloth.
For best results, repeat steaming and wiping.

The heat and pressure of a steam cleaner can deep clean grout while saving you elbow grease.

Commercial Grout Cleaners

Specialized grout cleaners are formulated to penetrate and clean dirty grout. Look for non-toxic and environmentally-friendly options.

Follow the manufacturer’s directions to:

Pre-treat heavily soiled areas
Apply cleaner and allow time to work
Scrub with a grout brush
Rinse thoroughly

Commercial cleaners simplify grout cleaning with less mixing and measuring. Check that the product is safe for your type of grout.

Grout Haze Removers

For grout haze or residue left from installation or cleaning, a grout haze remover can help dissolve and break it down so it can be removed.

To use a grout haze remover:

Apply a small amount directly to the hazy area.
Allow 2-3 minutes for it work.
Scrub with a stiff nylon brush.
Wipe clean and rinse thoroughly.

Always spot test in an inconspicuous area first. Rinse thoroughly afterward and dry the area.

Tips for Clean Grout

Follow these tips and tricks for getting your grout clean and keeping it that way:

Vacuum or sweep first – Removing surface debris allows cleaners to penetrate better.
Pretreat stains – Apply cleaner and let sit before scrubbing for the most cleaning power.
Use warm or hot water – Helps cut through grease and lift dirt from grout pores.
Take time to rinse – Thoroughly rinsing prevents haze and residue buildup.
Change rinse water – Dirty rinse water can redeposit grime back on the grout.
Dry thoroughly – Prevents water spots and mildew growth.
Repeat if needed – Heavily soiled grout may require multiple treatments.
Work in sections – Clean a 3×3 foot area at a time for best results.
Reseal after – Sealing after deep cleaning protects grout from regathering stains.

Grout Maintenance

Regular maintenance helps preserve your grout and prevents heavy staining. Follow these tips:

Sweep or vacuum weekly – Removes loose dirt before it cakes on grout.
Spot clean spills quickly – Don’t let stains set in the grout pores.
Spray with cleaning solution – Mist grout with cleaner and wipe periodically.
Reseal grout every 1-2 years – Sealing protects porous grout from stains.
Consider grout color – Darker grout resists showing dirt better than light grout.
Caulk corners – Caulking where backsplash meets the countertop prevents grime buildup.
Protect when cooking – Use a clear barrier when cooking with oils to prevent stains.
Improve kitchen ventilation – Proper ventilation reduces condensation that causes mildew.

Preventing Future Stains

Applying a grout sealer after cleaning provides stain resistance and makes future cleaning easier. There are two main types of grout sealers:

Topical Sealers

Topical sealers sit on top of the grout lines for protection. They are affordable and easy to apply but require reapplication every 1-2 years. Common options are:

Acrylic sealers – Popular water-based sealer that is safe for most grout types.
Epoxy resin sealers – More heavy-duty protection with longer durability.
Wax sealers – Provide water-repellency to grout. Require frequent reapplication.

Penetrating Sealers

Penetrating sealers are designed to get deep inside the grout pores and provide longer-lasting stain protection. They cost more initially but don’t require frequent reapplication. Options include:

Silane/siloxane sealers – Provide excellent water, oil, and stain repellency. Last 3-5 years.
Polyurethane sealers – Offer durable protection for up to 10 years. Difficult to apply.
Colloidal silica – Gets deep into pores for long-lasting protection. Lasts 2-5 years.

Always carefully follow the manufacturer’s directions to apply the sealer correctly. Allow proper curing time before use. Reapply as directed over time.

Common Questions

What is the best homemade grout cleaner?

For regular cleaning, a paste of baking soda and vinegar often works well to cut through grime and mild stains in grout joints. For a deeper clean, an ammonia and water solution helps degrease heavily soiled grout.

How do you get old, stained grout looking new again?

Rejuvenating old, heavily stained grout often requires deep cleaning methods. Make a paste with oxygen bleach powder and water and apply to grout for several hours before scrubbing and rinsing. For severe stains, a steam cleaner uses heat and pressure to deep clean.

How do you get rid of white haze on grout?

A grout haze remover product works well to dissolve haze and residue that is left behind on top of grout. Apply the remover, allow time to work, then scrub with a stiff brush. Rinse thoroughly. Avoid harsh scrubbing, which can drive the haze deeper.

Can I change the color of my existing grout?

Yes, it is possible to recolor your existing grout using a grout colorant kit. This involves thoroughly cleaning the grout, applying a grout colorant per the manufacturer’s directions, and sealing the grout after coloring. The new color will last longer if applied over sealed grout.

How often should you seal grout?

Most grout sealers need to be reapplied every 1 to 2 years for best protection. More durable penetrating sealers may only need resealing every 3-5 years. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for your specific sealer. Apply a fresh coat of sealer after deep cleaning grout.

Conclusion

Cleaning and maintaining your backsplash grout does not need to be difficult or time consuming. With the right techniques and cleaning solutions for your specific needs, you can have the stained and dirty grout looking fresh and clean. Be sure to seal your grout after deep cleaning for stain prevention and easier future upkeep.

Following regular maintenance habits such as sweeping, spot cleaning spills, and periodic washing with cleaning solutions will keep your grout clean longer. Protecting your backsplash while cooking and improving kitchen ventilation also prevents buildup on grout over time.

With a little elbow grease and the proper methods, keeping the grout clean on your backsplash helps maintain its beauty and your satisfaction with this stylish focal point in your kitchen.