Maintaining tiled surfaces’ structural integrity and visual appeal requires filling the gaps between tiles with grout. Over time, grout can accumulate dirt and stains, necessitating deep cleaning. While commercial grout cleaners are available in the market, homemade grout cleaners are just as effective. They are not only free from unsafe chemicals but are also budget-friendly. So, here are a few DIY recipes for homemade tile grout cleaners one can try making.

Baking soda and water
Baking soda is a readily available ingredient commonly used in baking cookies, cakes, etc. But apart from those recipes, it can also work well as an ingredient for cleaning the grout of ceramic tile floors. Baking soda, combined with water, with its abrasiveness, creates an effective grout solution that is safe and easy to make. All one has to do is mix equal parts baking soda with water until it gets the consistency of a paste. Once done, simply soak a sponge in it and begin wiping the grout.

Hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and dish soap
One can combine hydrogen peroxide with baking soda for a highly effective kitchen and shower tiles grout cleaner. Bleach is not advisable for cleaning grout, and hydrogen peroxide is a safer alternative. Baking soda, known for its abrasive properties, can help get rid of dirt, whereas hydrogen peroxide can restore the shine of the tiles. One can add a few drops of dish soap to the mixture to eliminate grease and ensure thorough cleaning. To make this cleaner, use a ratio of 2 parts baking soda to 1 part hydrogen peroxide and a few drops of dish soap.

Lemon juice and cream of tartar
Due to its high acidity, cleaning grout with vinegar is unsafe. Since grout is porous, vinegar can corrode and severely damage it. So, if someone is looking for a mildly acidic cleaner, one can use lemon juice – milder than vinegar. A few drops of lemon juice can be mixed with one tablespoon of cream of tartar until it forms a paste. Let this paste sit for a while, and then use it to scrub the grout. Lemon is a natural disinfectant, and both lemon juice and cream of tartar have whitening properties that will give a white shine to the tile surface.

Some tips for cleaning grout

• Clean regularly: Even with some of the best grout cleaners for tile floors that can be easily made at home, it is important to maintain a regular cleaning schedule.
• Dispose of any leftovers: One must safely dispose of any leftover grout cleaner after cleaning. These solutions are for single use and cannot be stored even using natural methods. Gas could build up in the storage container and cause it to explode.
• Avoid harsh substances: Grout is porous; harsh substances like vinegar and bleach can severely damage it.

One must avoid using excessive hot water to clean grout since it is a porous material. If too much moisture seeps into the grout, it will cause it to disintegrate and develop mold and mildew. This will further damage the integrity of the floors. Also, one must wear protective clothing while cleaning, especially when using chemicals like hydrogen peroxide.