How to Steam Clean Tile Grout (Without Harsh Chemicals)
Dirty grout makes a clean bathroom look neglected. Steam is one of the easiest ways to get it back to its original color, and it needs nothing but water.
What you'll need
A handheld steam cleaner with a small nozzle or brush attachment, a microfiber cloth and, for heavily stained grout, a stiff nylon brush. Distilled water helps if you have hard water.
1. Clear and dry-wipe the area
Remove bottles and mats, then wipe away loose hair and dust. Steam works best on grime, not on loose debris.
2. Work in small sections
Fit the narrow nozzle or small round brush and hold it close to one grout line. Move slowly — about an inch per second — so the heat has time to loosen the dirt.
3. Wipe as you go
Follow right behind with a microfiber cloth to lift the loosened grime before it cools and settles back in.
4. Scrub stubborn spots
For dark stains, steam, then scrub with a stiff brush and steam again. Mould stains that have soaked deep into old grout may not fully lift.
What not to steam
Skip unsealed wood, laminate floors, peeling paint, and cracked or crumbling grout. If your grout is unsealed, reseal it after it dries to keep it cleaner for longer.
