How to Change Grout Color

Is your bathroom grout making your space feel outdated or dingy? Good news: you don't necessarily need to replace your tiles to refresh the grout's appearance. Whether you're looking to brighten it up or tone it down, a few simple steps can give your bathroom a whole new vibe. Keep reading to discover how to change the color of your grout.

Clean Your Grout Thoroughly to Reveal Its Natural Shade

Grout is highly porous, meaning it tends to trap dirt, oils, and stubborn stains far more than tiles do. Over time, your grout might appear discolored due to these accumulated residues. A thorough cleaning could make it look like new again. Here are some tried-and-true methods to try:

• Create a baking soda paste by mixing a small amount of water with baking soda. Use an old toothbrush to gently scrub the paste into the grout. Wipe it clean with a damp cloth afterward.
• Boost the effectiveness with distilled vinegar. If the stains are particularly tough, spray the baking soda paste with vinegar. Combine equal parts vinegar and warm water in a spray bottle, apply the paste, and let it sit for five minutes before wiping it away.
• Consider using a commercial grout cleaner. While these products can be effective, proceed with caution—some cleaners contain bleach, which may not be suitable for colored grout.
• Try a steam cleaner. For a chemical-free option, invest in a floor steamer (available for under $100). If you already own one, this method is even more convenient!

If your initial cleaning efforts don't yield the desired results, don't get discouraged. Sometimes multiple rounds of cleaning are necessary. Set aside a weekend to focus on this task, and you'll likely be thrilled with the outcome.

Darken Your Grout with a Grout Pen

Looking to give your grout a darker hue? A grout pen is a quick and easy solution. Similar to a paint pen or marker, you simply press lightly to release the pigment and then trace over the grout lines. Before committing to the entire bathroom, test the pen in an inconspicuous spot to ensure you like the shade. Once satisfied, fill in all the grout lines for a refreshed look. To keep the color intact, consider sealing the grout afterward.

Lighten Your Grout with Bleach

Oxygen bleach or chlorine bleach can help lighten your grout. These products typically come in powder form, which you can mix with water to create a paste. Apply the paste to the grout lines, allow it to sit for a while, and then remove it with a damp cloth. Alternatively, you can use a grout bleach pen. These pens resemble paint pens but are designed specifically for lightening grout. Follow the instructions carefully and always test the product on a small area first to check the final result.

Transform Your Grout with Tile Refinishing

Imagine a bathroom where you never have to worry about grout maintenance again. That's exactly what tile refinishing offers. Instead of constantly cleaning and worrying about stains, refinishing gives your tiles and grout a fresh, uniform look. The process involves applying a glaze that covers both the tiles and the grout, creating a seamless surface that's easier to maintain. While there's still an indentation for the grout, its appearance matches the rest of the tile perfectly. Tile refinishing is significantly cheaper than replacing tiles, yet it can completely revitalize your kitchen or bathroom. Plus, you won't have to deal with the hassle of cleaning grout anymore—a win-win situation!

For more information about tile refinishing, contact Maryland Tub and Tile at 877-717-8827.