Tired of Dirty Grout? Here’s How to Clean Tile the Right Way

Your Complete Guide to Stain-Free Floors and Walls (Without Damaging Them)

Tile surfaces add a polished, modern touch to bathrooms, kitchens, and entryways — but keeping them clean is another story. Between mildew in the bathroom, oil splatters in the kitchen, and muddy shoes in the hallway, even the most stylish tiles can lose their shine.

Grimy tiles and discoloured grout lines can make your home feel older, darker, and dirtier than it actually is. The good news? You can bring them back to life with the right approach.

Here’s your go-to guide on how to clean tile and grout, remove stains, and maintain that just-cleaned shine, with easy steps from the experts at SG Reno Cleaning.

How Often Should You Clean Tile and Grout?

The answer depends on foot traffic and usage.

• High-traffic areas (like kitchens and bathrooms): Clean weekly

• Low-traffic areas (like guest bathrooms or laundry rooms): Clean every 2–3 weeks

Keep an eye on grime and adjust your routine accordingly.

Tools You’ll Need for Tile Cleaning

To get started, gather these simple tools and ingredients:

• Microfibre cloth

• Spray bottle

• Dish soap

• Baking soda

• Scrub brush or sponge

• Warm water

  
  

How to Clean Tile the Right Way

Not all cleaners are created equal, especially when it comes to tiles. While some might recommend vinegar, it’s too acidic for most tile types and can actually damage grout or etch natural stone.

Here’s a safer method for everyday tile cleaning:

Step-by-Step:

1. Mix warm water with a few drops of dish soap in a spray bottle

2. Spray directly onto the tile surface

3. Wipe down using a microfibre cloth or damp sponge

4. Dry with a clean towel to prevent water spots

   
   

✅ Best for: Ceramic, porcelain, and sealed tiles

❌ Avoid vinegar on stone or porous tiles

How to Remove Stains from Tile

If regular dish soap doesn’t do the trick, try a baking soda paste for more stubborn marks.

Here’s how:

1. Make a paste using baking soda and a bit of water

2. Apply it to the stained area and let it sit for 15–20 minutes

3. Scrub gently with a sponge or brush

4. Rinse and dry with a clean cloth

🧽 Great for kitchen splatters, bathroom soap scum, and entrance hall dirt buildup.

How to Clean Grout Like a Pro

Grout can be tricky. Because it’s porous, it traps dirt, moisture, and bacteria — and once it’s stained, it shows.

Here’s how to clean a dirty grout effectively:

Tools You’ll Need:

• Baking soda

• Warm water

• Hydrogen peroxide (for stubborn stains)

• Scrub brush

• Microfibre cloth

  
  

For Light Cleaning:

1. Mix baking soda and water to form a paste

2. Apply to grout lines and scrub with a brush

3. Let sit for 15 minutes

4. Rinse with warm water and dry with a cloth

   
   

Grout Stain Removal: What to Do When It’s Really Dirty

For darker, set-in stains, use a stronger solution.

Try this:

1. Mix baking soda with hydrogen peroxide

2. Apply to the stained grout

3. Scrub thoroughly, then wait 15 minutes

4. Rinse and dry

💡 This method lifts even old grime without harsh bleach.

How to Maintain Clean Tile and Grout

Once your tiles are gleaming, keep them that way with a few simple habits:

✅ Reduce Moisture

• Wipe down tiles after each shower

• Run your bathroom fan during and after bathing

• Mop up spills promptly in the kitchen

  
  

✅ Skip Harsh Chemicals

Avoid vinegar, lemon juice, and acidic cleaners. These can erode grout and leave tiles looking dull.

✅ Seal Your Grout

Apply a grout sealer 1–2 times a year to block out stains, mould, and moisture. Make sure the grout is completely dry before sealing.

When to Call a Professional

If your tile or grout looks permanently stained, smells musty, or has gone years without a deep clean, it’s time to call in the experts.

Learning how to clean tile and grout doesn’t have to be a chore,

but it does require the right tools, the right approach, and a little consistency.

✨ Want sparkling floors and walls without the hassle?Let SG Reno Cleaning do the heavy lifting for you. Whether it's your bathroom, kitchen, or hallway, we’ll get your tiles and grout looking brand-new.

👉 Book your tile and grout cleaning service in Singapore today and experience a cleaner, brighter space in no time.