How to Make & Use an Effective DIY Grout Cleaner

Have you ever wondered what color your grout originally was before it got hidden under layers of dirt and grime? In this step-by-step tutorial, I'll show you how to use a simple DIY grout cleaner to uncover the true color of your grout.


All you need are some basic materials and a little elbow grease for this homemade grout cleaner recipe!

Tools and materials

  • Baking soda
  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • Cup or bowl
  • Tough scrub brush (or handheld/ electric scrub brush)
  • Damp cloth
Grout before cleaning
Making the DIY grout cleaner

Step 1: Make the cleaner

In your cup or bowl, combine equal parts baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Mix them well to form a paste.

Applying the DIY grout cleaner

Step 2: Apply the cleaner

Using your fingers or a spatula, apply the baking soda and hydrogen peroxide mixture directly onto the grout lines you want to clean. Ensure that the grout lines are generously covered with the paste.

Scrubbing with the DIY grout cleaner

Step 3: Start scrubbing

Use your tough scrub brush to vigorously scrub the grout lines. You can also opt for a handheld or electric scrub brush if you prefer.


As you scrub, you'll start to see the dirt and grime lifting off and mixing with the cleaning solution. If the grout is turning noticeably darker, it's a clear sign that the grout was much dirtier than you thought, and you're on the right track.

Wiping off the excess

Step 4: Wipe off excess

Once you've thoroughly scrubbed the grout lines, use a damp cloth to wipe off the excess cleaning paste. This will reveal the true color of your grout.

Revealing the real color

Step 5: Revealing the real color

Prepare to be amazed! As you wipe away the grime, you'll see the original color of your grout shining through. In this case, it appears that the grout was actually tan, not the dark color it appeared to be before cleaning.


Repeat as needed. If there are still stubborn stains or areas that need further attention, don't hesitate to repeat the process until you achieve the desired results.


DIY grout cleaner

Now that you know the true color of your grout, you might be inspired to clean all the grout in your house to match. With this DIY grout cleaner, you can breathe new life into your tiled surfaces and enjoy a cleaner, brighter home.


Let me know in the comments how this DIY grout cleaner worked in your home!


Follow @home_reimagined on TikTok for more DIY ideas.

Frequently asked questions
Have a question about this project?
  1 question
  • Cheryl Cheryl on Oct 04, 2023
    Don't you have to seal it again after scrubbing?
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  • Dolores Esparza Dolores Esparza on Oct 04, 2023
    I have used the Dollar Tree brand "AWESOME" general cleaner ($1.25 for 1/2 gallon) and a Spin Brush to clean my Tan floor grout... it has Oxi Clean (peroxide base) and they also have the powdered form of Oxi-Clean ($1.25 for a 1 lb tub) so you can mix up stronger solution for those areas that will/may need more scrubbing. Like in front of stove, refrigerator and high traffic areas. The above method works, but I would need a dozen + boxes of baking soda and a few gallons worth of bottles of the peroxide and mixing enough to do my floors would be time consuming, and a lot more expensive EVEN if I got the BS & Peroxide at $Tree! When I can get 4 gallons (in 1/2 gallon containers) for $10 and tax..... That Awesome brand cleaner has MANY uses around the house too!
  • Using the Dollar Tree brand 'AWESOME' cleaner with a Spin Brush is a fantastic alternative! Affordable solutions that work wonders. Thanks for sharing this cost-effective tip and your experience with it! 💡🌟
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