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Dirty grout will look like new in 10 minutes if 1 bathroom staple is applied — not vinegar

According to bathroom experts, grout stains can be easily lifted without the use of harsh chemicals - all you need are some household staples.

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Mold fungus and rust growing in tile joints in damp poorly ventilated bathroom with high humidity, wetness, moisture and dampness problem in bath area

Dirty grout can be unsightly and tough to remove (Image: Getty)

Cleaning bathroom grout can be a nightmare when stains take hold, often turning an unsighlty shade of orange or black due to dirt, grime, soap scum and mould. The porous nature of grout allows mould and mildew to thrive, leading to discolouration over time. 

Once these substances are absorbed into grout, they can be difficult to remove with regular cleaning methods. Luckily bathroom experts from Vidalux.co.uk have shared an unusual staple that can clean dirty grout: shaving foam. While shop-bought cleaners can be a great way to help to loosen dirt, experts have shared various other solutions that don't include harsh chemicals.

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According to the experts, shaving foam can actually be effective in removing dirt and debris from grout. Make sure you are using a foamy shaving cream rather than a gel and apply it to the area. After letting it sit for around 10 minutes, begin to gently scrub the grout to remove dirt. Rinse or wipe away the cream to reveal fresh grout.

A spokesperson for Vidalux said: “Grout can be a pain to clean because it’s a porous material, meaning that it easily absorbs water, dirt and other soapy residues. These substances then settle into the tiny pockets, making them difficult to remove. 

“Steaming is a popular solution because it can help loosen dirt, making it easier to clean. Those without a grout steamer can use things such as vinegar and bicarbonate soda to effectively lift build up as well.

“Shaving cream is also a great solution as it contains properties that lift dirt and grime. Simply apply some foamy shaving cream to the grout, let it sit before scrubbing it with a toothbrush and then wipe the area clean with a damp cloth.”

 

A close-up shot of a person dispensing a white foamy product from a teal-colored aerosol can

Shaving foam is great at lifting stains (Image: Getty)

How to clean dirty bathroom grout

Steaming

Steaming grout is an effective way to loosen dirt and debris stuck inside of grout and make it easier to clean. This is typically done with a grout steamer but if you don’t have one and you’re trying to clean grout on the floor, you can pour some boiling water on the area and let it sit before scrubbing. 

Bicarbonate soda

Using two parts bicarbonate soda with one part water to make a paste works as an abrasive cleaning agent that can dissolve dirt and grime. Simply let the paste sit on the area for around 10 to 15 minutes, scrub the grout and then wipe away with a damp cloth.

Vinegar

The acidity of vinegar can help break down dirt alone but those looking for something extra powerful can mix the solution with bicarbonate soda. Sprinkle some bicarbonate soda onto the grout before spraying on some vinegar and letting it fizz. After the solution has sat for 10 minutes scrub clean.

Dish soap

Dish soap is designed to break down grease, and its bubbles help to lift away grime and dirt. When mixed with water and applied to grout it can be effective at loosening and removing built up residue. cleaning your grout when rubbed in circular motions mixed with water to activate. 

Old toothbrush

An old toothbrush is great for gently scrubbing grout, allowing you to get into crooks and corners to lift away dirt, grease and grime that may be trapped.

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