Residues from cleaning products, dust, and other substances accumulate in the joints between tiles, encouraging mold growth. That is why it is important to disinfect them regularly.
You don’t need to use chemical cleaning products to whiten tile grout. Although there are effective solutions on the market, ecological ingredients can make the task easier for you for a small amount of money.
The joints are filled with a paste that is often worn away by moisture, dust, and other substances that accumulate. Although it is not noticeable at first, over time they become dark due to the growth of mold.
The most inconvenient thing is that the walls start to look dirty and the accumulation of these microorganisms increases the risk of allergies. That is why it is advisable to spend several minutes cleaning them, at least once a week.
How to whiten tile grout?
Here is a compilation of the 5 most effective natural products for whitening your joints. Go ahead and try them out!
1. White vinegar
Known as the natural cleaning product par excellence, white vinegar is one of your best allies for whitening tile grout. Due to its acetic acid content, it can remove mold and moisture stains.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup white vinegar (125 ml)
- ¼ cup warm water (62 ml)
Preparation:
- Pour the white vinegar into a container and mix it with the warm water.
- After obtaining a solution, store it in a bottle.
How to use:
- Spray the cleaner onto the tile grout and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Afterward, rub it with a sponge or brush and rinse.
Note: If stains are too tough, rub with undiluted white vinegar.
2. Baking soda
Baking soda is one of the most effective eco-friendly detergents out there. Thanks to its astringent and anti-fungal action, it removes mold residues that dirty grout. The best thing? It also neutralizes bad odors.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup baking soda (100 g)
- Hot water (as needed)
Preparation:
- Put the baking soda in a bowl and moisten it with hot water until you get a thick paste.
How to use:
- Rub the baking soda paste to whiten the tile grout.
- Let it sit for 30 minutes and rinse.
3. Lemon juice
The citric acid contained in lemon juice is a component that helps stop the growth of mold and bacteria in the grout joints of tiles. Its direct application not only removes dirt but is also effective against stains.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice (125 ml)
- ¼ cup hot water (62 ml)
Preparation:
- Dilute the fresh lemon juice in the hot water.
- Then pour it into a spray bottle.
How to use:
- Spray the solution onto the tile grout and rub in with a sponge.
- Rinse and repeat use until dirt is removed.
4. Apple cider vinegar
Indeed, apple cider vinegar is mainly used in cooking and natural medicine. However, due to its concentration of acids, it is also an interesting solution for cleaning tiles and bathrooms.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar (125 ml)
- ½ cup water (125 ml)
Preparation:
- Dilute the apple cider vinegar in the water.
How to use:
- Dip a sponge into the solution and rub it over the tile grout.
- Repeat the operation until the desired surface is whitened.
- Finally, rinse with warm water.
5. Hydrogen peroxide and sodium bicarbonate
One of the most recommended products for whitening tile grout and other similar surfaces is hydrogen peroxide. In this case, we suggest you mix it with baking soda to remove moisture stains and soap residue.
Ingredients:
- ¼ cup hydrogen peroxide (62 ml)
- ½ cup baking soda (100 g)
Preparation:
- Combine the hydrogen peroxide with the baking soda until you obtain a semi-solid paste.
How to use:
- Spread the mixture over the tile joints and rub it in with a brush or sponge.
- Let it sit for 10 more minutes and rinse with hot water.
Note: If mold stains persist, apply a little white vinegar after using the hydrogen peroxide and baking soda mixture.