How to Clean Bathroom Grout | Easy Shower Grout Cleaning Tips
How to Clean Bathroom Grout
Bathroom grout can quickly become stained by moisture, soap residue, and everyday grime. In showers, it may also develop black marks caused by mould and mildew. The best way to clean grout is to start with a gentle method first, then use a stronger cleaner only if needed.
For light dirt, clean bathroom grout with warm water and a grout brush. For tougher stains, use a paste made from baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. For deep discolouration, use an oxygen bleach cleaner. If the grout is cracked, crumbling, or still looks poor after repeated cleaning, regrouting may be the better long-term solution.

What to Avoid Before Cleaning Grout
Before cleaning grout, avoid using overly harsh or acidic products on cement-based grout, especially if it is unsealed. You should also avoid metal brushes or anything too abrasive, as these can damage the grout and make it wear away faster.
For best results:
- test any cleaner on a small hidden area first
- use a grout brush or old toothbrush
- keep the room ventilated while cleaning
- rinse thoroughly after using any product

Best Way to Clean Stained Grout
For light dirt or surface marks, warm water and a brush are often enough. If warm water is not enough, use baking soda and hydrogen peroxide to lift deeper stains and brighten grout lines.
You will need:
- baking soda
- hydrogen peroxide
- a small bowl
- a toothbrush or grout brush
- clean water
Method:
Mix baking soda and hydrogen peroxide into a thick paste. Apply the paste to the grout lines and leave it for five to ten minutes. Scrub gently with a brush, rinse with clean water, and dry the area thoroughly.

If the grout still looks stained after one attempt, a deep clean may be the faster option.
How to Clean Very Dirty Grout
For deeper staining, oxygen bleach is usually more effective than mild DIY methods.
Method:
Mix oxygen bleach according to the product instructions. Apply it to the grout lines, leave it for five to ten minutes, scrub with a brush, rinse thoroughly, and dry the area.

How to Stop Grout Getting Dirty Again
Once the grout is clean, regular maintenance will help keep it looking fresher for longer.
The best ways to prevent staining are:
- wipe down shower walls after use
- open a window or run the extractor fan
- dry the dampest corners of the bathroom
- clean marks early before they become deep stains
- seal grout lines if suitable for your bathroom

Keeping moisture under control is the easiest way to reduce mould, mildew, and future discolouration.
When to Regrout Instead of Clean
Cleaning will not always fix damaged grout. If the grout is cracked, crumbling, or permanently stained, regrouting may be the better long-term solution.
You may need to regrout if:
- the grout stays dark after repeated cleaning
- it is cracked or missing in places
- mould keeps returning quickly
- the grout looks patchy even when dry and clean
Final Thoughts
Cleaning bathroom grout does not need to involve harsh scrubbing or complicated products. In most cases, starting with warm water, then moving to a baking soda and hydrogen peroxide paste, will deal with common bathroom stains. For deeper discolouration, oxygen bleach is often the better choice.
If your grout is still in poor condition after cleaning, or if it is cracked and worn, regrouting may be the smarter option.
Ready to get your bathroom looking fresh again without the hassle?



