How to Remove Mould from Bathroom Grout

Published on Friday, August 12, 2022

How to Remove Mould from Bathroom Grout

Bathroom grout in your tiles is notoriously tough to get rid of. That dirty and grimy mould or mildew can be treated with just a few simple products.

You’ll be surprised at what a difference this process is going to make to the overall look of your bathroom!

What Causes Black Mould on Grout?

Close Up Shot Of Dirty Grout

Mould needs humidity and moisture to grow, meaning your bathroom is highly susceptible to growth.

Grout is particularly prone to mould because of how it is structured. Grout is porous so that it can effectively do its job of protecting your tiles. However, its absorbency also makes it the ideal area for mould to accumulate.

Mould requires immediate action, as it looks unsightly and can pose health risks to you and your family.

How to Remove Mould from Grout?

Man Brushing Grout with Baking Soda Solution

You may have seen mould on your walls before, but dark, grimy grout in your tiles is fairly commonplace in most bathrooms.

Cleaning your grout is easier than you may think. Here’s where to start.

  1. Wipe down the tiled area to soak up any moisture or slimy grime before you begin.
  2. Create a paste using baking soda and water. Aim to make its consistency similar to toothpaste.
  3. Apply it to the grout lines generously and leave it for around 30 minutes.
  4. Use an old toothbrush or specific grout brush to scrub the lines and wipe the area down thoroughly. Keep in mind that baking soda may make your floors a little gritty, so take your time with this step.
  5. Create a mixture of vinegar and water with a 1:1 ratio. Spray carefully onto the area but try not to get any spray on the tiles themselves, especially if they are natural stone.
  6. Leave for 10 minutes and wipe down with warm water.

So, why do these solutions work? Vinegar can naturally treat mould because of its antifungal and antibacterial properties – it is an inexpensive yet effective way of treating smaller mould infestations.

Note that you should only be spraying vinegar on sealed grout as vinegar can penetrate into the spaces of unsealed grout, which can cause deterioration over time.

Baking soda is effective here because the mildly abrasive properties of the baking soda help lift dirt from the porous grout.

Can Electrodry Clean Mould in Grout?

Electrodry Tile and Grout Cleaning Technician

Electrodry offers a tile and grout cleaning service, specifically targeting grimy grout lines. Our process effectively removes dirt, grease and bacteria from grout, restoring a clean, fresh look.

If your grout mould or mildew is stubborn or particularly severe, you may need to call in a professional cleaning service. A professional will have industry-standard cleaning solutions and equipment, as well as the expertise to handle the job effectively, safely and efficiently.

Sometimes bathroom tile mould and mildew need something more powerful. Electrodry’s Mould and Mildew Treatment combines our Restorative Cleaning process with Chlorosan, an antimicrobial stain removal solution designed for mould-affected tiles and grout.

How to Prevent Mould in Grout?

Installing Exhaust Fan In Bathroom

You can’t stop the moisture in a bathroom (it’s where you shower, after all!) but you can minimise how much, which can prevent mould growth. And as we all know, prevention is better than cure.

These are a few ways to prevent mould from growing in your bathroom.

  • Ventilate, ventilate, ventilate! Turn on your exhaust fan every time you have a shower or take a bath, leaving it on for at least 15 minutes afterwards to help it effectively clear moisture from the room.
  • No exhaust fan? Open a window while and during your shower or bath, if possible.
  • Make sure that the tiles on your floor and your shower wall are wiped down once you’re done – there is less chance of mould developing in dry grout lines.
  • Leave the shower door open while you aren’t using the shower.
  • Shake off shower curtains regularly if you have them.
  • Hang towels up after use. Leaving wet towels piled up on the floor will contribute to any humidity issues.
  • Maintain your tiles and grout regularly and keep on top of grimy grout with our method above.
  • Fix any leaky faucets or showerheads.
  • Is your grout properly sealed? Sealing issues may be expediting how quickly moisture is penetrating the grout.

Any steps you can take to prevent mould will make it easier for you to ensure your bathroom is in neat and healthy condition. Slight grout mould and mildew are relatively easy to stay on top of with the above process. However, for more severe contamination, we recommend giving the team at Electrodry a call.

Electrodry Tile and Grout Cleaning offers a more unique approach than many other tile cleaning companies, focusing on detailed training to ensure technicians use far less water and pressure during your clean.

We thoroughly and safely agitate our products into the floor, guaranteeing an efficient, effective and gentle clean.

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