Dirty grout can make even the cleanest bathroom look dingy and neglected. Over time, soap scum, hard water, and mildew cling to grout lines, turning them dark and stained. While store-bought grout cleaners can be effective, they often contain harsh chemicals that aren’t great for your health or your wallet. The good news? You can clean shower grout naturally and effectively with two simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen: vinegar and baking soda.
This step-by-step guide will show you exactly how to clean shower grout with vinegar and baking soda, along with tips to keep grout looking fresh and mold-free longer.
Why Vinegar and Baking Soda Work So Well on Grout
When it comes to grout cleaning, vinegar and baking soda are a powerhouse duo.
-
Vinegar is acidic, which means it naturally breaks down mineral deposits, soap scum, and mildew stains. It’s also antibacterial, so it helps kill the germs hiding in grout pores.
-
Baking soda is a mild abrasive, making it perfect for scrubbing away grime without scratching tiles. It also neutralizes odors and brightens surfaces.
When combined, vinegar and baking soda create a fizzing reaction that helps lift dirt and grime out of grout lines, making it easier to scrub away buildup.
If you are looking for a natural grout cleaner vinegar and baking soda is the eco-friendly way to clean shower grout.
How to Clean Shower Grout with Vinegar and Baking Soda:
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Before you start cleaning, gather the tools and ingredients you’ll need:
-
Baking soda
-
White vinegar
-
Spray bottle
-
Bowl for mixing paste
-
Old toothbrush or grout brush
-
Microfiber cloth or sponge
-
Warm water
That’s it! No harsh chemicals, no expensive products—just basic household items.
Step 2: Make a Baking Soda Paste
The first step is to create a thick paste using baking soda and water.
-
Mix 3 tablespoons of baking soda with just enough water to form a paste.
-
Apply the paste generously to your grout lines, focusing on stained or moldy areas.
-
Use your toothbrush to spread the paste evenly along the grout.
This simple DIY baking soda paste for shower grout cleaning paste helps loosen stains and deodorize grout before adding vinegar.
Step 3: Spray Vinegar onto the Grout
Next, fill a spray bottle with equal parts white vinegar and warm water.
-
Spray the vinegar solution directly onto the grout covered with baking soda paste.
-
You’ll notice fizzing and bubbling—this is the chemical reaction that helps lift dirt from the grout.
-
Let the mixture sit for 10–15 minutes to give it time to break down grime and mildew.
This natural reaction does most of the hard work for you.
So, if your trying to figure out how to clean grout with vinegar spray, this natural solution does most of the hard work for you.
Step 4: Scrub the Grout Lines
After letting the mixture sit, it’s time to scrub.
-
Use your old toothbrush or grout brush to scrub the grout in small, circular motions.
-
For stubborn spots, dip the toothbrush directly into vinegar before scrubbing.
-
Focus on areas that tend to get the dirtiest, like corners and grout lines near the floor.
Scrubbing helps remove the loosened dirt and mold that the fizzing reaction brought to the surface.
Step 5: Rinse and Wipe Clean
Once you’ve scrubbed all the grout lines, rinse the area with warm water. Wipe the tiles and grout with a microfiber cloth or sponge to remove any leftover baking soda or vinegar residue.
Not only will your grout look brighter, but your bathroom will smell fresher too—no harsh chemical fumes required.
knowing how to rinse shower grout after cleaning with vinegar and baking soda is ideal if you want good results.
It’s as simple as 123, Simply rinse with warm water thoroughly then dry with a clean towels.
Step 6: Repeat for Deep Stains
If your grout is heavily stained or hasn’t been cleaned in a while, you may need to repeat the process a second time. Apply a fresh layer of baking soda paste, spray vinegar again, and scrub once more until stains fade.
For extra stubborn mold or mildew, let the vinegar and baking soda mixture sit for up to 30 minutes before scrubbing.
Tips to Keep Shower Grout Clean Longer
Cleaning grout can be a chore, but the right maintenance routine can help you avoid frequent deep cleans. Here are some natural tips to keep grout fresh:
-
Dry the shower after use: Use a squeegee or towel to remove excess moisture from tiles and grout.
-
Spray vinegar weekly: A quick mist of diluted vinegar helps prevent mildew buildup.
-
Improve ventilation: Run a bathroom fan or open a window during and after showers to reduce humidity.
-
Seal your grout: Applying a grout sealer every 6–12 months adds a protective layer that keeps dirt and mold from settling in.
SEO...How to maintain clean shower grout naturally, prevent mold in bathroom grout
Other Natural Alternatives for Cleaning Grout
While vinegar and baking soda are incredibly effective, here are a few other natural options you can try if you want to switch it up:
-
Hydrogen peroxide: Brightens and disinfects grout without harsh bleach.
-
Lemon juice: Naturally acidic, great for mild stains and a fresh scent.
-
Tea tree oil: A natural antifungal that helps prevent mold and mildew growth.
These options are eco-friendly and safe for homes with kids or pets.
Conclusion
Learning how to clean shower grout with vinegar and baking soda is a simple, affordable, and eco-friendly way to restore your bathroom’s sparkle. This powerful duo removes soap scum, mildew, and stains without toxic chemicals, making it safe for your family and your tiles.
With just a few household ingredients and a little scrubbing, you can brighten grout lines, eliminate odors, and enjoy a fresh, clean shower. Add in some easy maintenance habits, and your grout will stay looking like new for months to come.
So next time your shower grout looks dingy, skip the bleach and grab the vinegar and baking soda—you’ll be amazed at the results!