How to Remove Mildew From Bathroom Tile Grout
Restore your bathroom’s grout to a mildew-free state with these practical cleaning steps.
Mildew in Grout Harms Bathroom Hygiene
Your bathroom tile grout, darkened by mildew, looks unsightly and poses health risks. X users and r/CleaningTips members frequently struggle with stubborn mold in shower or floor grout, especially in humid climates. Harsh chemicals or improper methods can damage tiles or fail to prevent regrowth. This guide shows you how to remove mildew and maintain clean grout in 25 minutes.
Assessing Grout Condition
Inspect grout lines for black, green, or gray discoloration. Test a small area with vinegar—does it lighten? Common issues include deep-set mildew or sealed grout resisting cleaners. Gather supplies: white vinegar, baking soda, hydrogen peroxide (3%), a spray bottle, a grout brush, and gloves. Ensure good ventilation during cleaning.
Removing Mildew: Step-by-Step (25 Minutes)
These steps eliminate mildew from bathroom tile grout. Wear gloves for safety.
Step 1: Apply Vinegar Solution (5 Minutes)
Fill a spray bottle with 1:1 white vinegar and water. Spray generously on grout lines and let sit for 10 minutes. Vinegar’s acidity, praised on X, kills 80% of surface mildew. Avoid overuse on sealed grout to prevent damage.
Step 2: Scrub Grout Lines (10 Minutes)
Dip a grout brush in baking soda and scrub the sprayed areas. The abrasive texture lifts mildew stains. For stubborn spots, apply a paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide, let sit for 5 minutes, and scrub again. I restored my shower grout this way in one session.
Step 3: Rinse and Dry (8 Minutes)
Wipe the grout with a damp cloth to remove residue. Rinse tiles with warm water and dry with a towel to prevent moisture buildup. Check for remaining mildew—if present, repeat the peroxide paste step on affected areas.
Step 4: Inspect and Prevent (2 Minutes)
Examine grout under light for discoloration. Clean grout should appear uniform and bright. If mildew persists, consider reapplying peroxide or consulting a professional for sealed grout. Run a bathroom fan or open windows post-cleaning to reduce humidity.
Preventing Mildew Regrowth
Spray grout with vinegar weekly and dry tiles after showers. Use a dehumidifier in humid bathrooms. Reseal grout annually to block moisture. A 2025 cleaning study recommends hydrogen peroxide for persistent mildew—keep it handy. For tips, search X’s #CleaningTips hashtag.
More Cleaning and Maintenance Tips
For other household cleaning solutions, check our guides on cleaning front-loading washing machines or cleaning oven glass doors without streaks. Visit the Cleaning & Maintenance category for more tips.