The best way to clean grout without harsh chemicals is a steam cleaner. Hot, pressurized steam loosens dirt and grime from the tiny pores in grout, so you can wipe it away with far less scrubbing and no chemical residue left on your floor.
Why grout gets dirty (even when you keep it sealed)
Tile is tough, but grout is not. It is porous, which means it soaks up dirt, spills, grease and moisture a little at a time. Over the years, even light-colored grout turns gray or brown. Sealing helps slow this down, but it does not stop it forever.
The old-fashioned fix is a toothbrush, a bottle of cleaner and a lot of time on your hands and knees. It works, but it is slow, hard on your back and knees, and the cleaner can leave a film behind.
Why steam works so well on grout
- It reaches into the pores. Steam is hot water vapor, so it gets into tiny spaces that a brush bristle cannot, loosening trapped dirt and stains from within the grout.
- Less scrubbing. A focused jet of steam does most of the work. A quick pass with a brush or microfiber cloth lifts what is left.
- No chemical residue. All you use is water, so there is no sticky film on your tile and nothing for kids, pets or bare feet to pick up.
- Gentler on grout. Constant hard scrubbing and strong chemicals can wear down grout over time. Steam removes dirt without harsh abrasion.
- Cleaner and more sanitary. High-temperature steam helps remove bacteria and grime from hard surfaces, which is especially helpful in bathrooms and kitchens.
How to clean grout with a steam cleaner: step by step
- Sweep or vacuum first. Remove loose dirt and dust so you are not pushing it around.
- Fill and heat your steam cleaner. Use the water type recommended in your manual, and wait until the machine is ready to steam.
- Choose a narrow tool. Use the detail jet nozzle or the nylon grout brush attachment that came with your machine. Avoid metal brushes on grout.
- Work in small sections. Move the nozzle slowly along each grout line, about 2 to 3 feet at a time, so the steam has time to loosen the dirt.
- Wipe as you go. Follow behind with a clean microfiber cloth or pad to pick up the loosened grime before it settles again.
- Repeat on stubborn spots. Heavily stained lines may need a second pass.
- Let it dry. Open a window or run a fan, and give the area a little time before walking on it or applying sealer.
Tips for the best results
- Test a small, hidden spot first, especially on older or unsealed grout.
- Keep the tool moving so you do not hold hot steam on one spot for too long.
- Check your tile type. Some natural stone and delicate finishes need extra care, so follow the tile maker's guidance.
- Re-seal grout after deep cleaning, if your grout is meant to be sealed. Clean, dry grout takes sealer best.
- Use a clean cloth often. A dirty cloth just moves grime from one line to the next.
Common grout-cleaning mistakes to avoid
- Scrubbing with wire or metal brushes, which can scratch tile and wear away grout.
- Mixing household chemicals, which can create dangerous fumes.
- Skipping the wipe-down, which lets loosened dirt dry right back into the grout.
- Using steam on cracked, crumbling or loose grout. Repair it first.
Which Vapamore steam cleaner is right for grout?
- MR-100 Primo: a great all-around choice for whole-home cleaning, including floors, tile and grout.
- MR-75 Amico: a compact handheld option that is handy for showers, backsplashes and small tile areas.
- MR-1000 Forza: a commercial-grade steam cleaner for big tile jobs, restaurant kitchens and professional cleaning.
Every Vapamore steam cleaner is backed by the Vapamore Lifetime Warranty. Read the warranty details.
Frequently asked questions
Can you clean grout with just a steam cleaner? Yes. A steam cleaner loosens dirt and stains from grout lines using only heated water. For heavy buildup, follow the steam with a gentle brush or microfiber cloth.
Does steam damage grout? Steam cleaning is generally gentler than scrubbing with abrasive brushes and strong chemicals. Avoid using it on cracked or crumbling grout, and test a hidden spot first.
How often should I steam clean grout? Most homes do well with a deep clean every few months. Busy kitchens and bathrooms may need it more often.
Should I seal grout after steam cleaning? If your grout is meant to be sealed, resealing after a deep clean helps protect it. Let it dry fully before applying sealer.
Can steam remove old, stained grout? Steam can lift a lot of deep-set dirt and many stains. Very old discoloration may not come out completely, but steam is a good first step before more involved fixes.
What attachment should I use to clean grout? Use a narrow detail jet or a nylon grout brush. Skip metal brushes, which can scratch tile and wear down grout.
Ready for cleaner grout?
- Shop new Vapamore steam cleaners
- Shop refurbished machines
- Learn the benefits of steam cleaning
- Read the steam cleaner usage guide
Have questions? Call us at (480) 951-8900.
Leave a comment