How to Clean Countertop Grout

Why Grout Gets So Dirty

Grout is a cement-based material that fills the gaps between tiles. It's naturally porous, which means it absorbs grease, food particles, moisture, and bacteria over time. Kitchen countertop grout is especially vulnerable because it's constantly exposed to cooking oils, spills, and steam. Without regular attention, grout turns from white or light gray to a dingy brown or black.

The good news: grout responds very well to the right cleaning methods, and you don't need harsh chemicals to get it clean.

What You'll Need

Baking soda — the foundation of effective grout cleaning
Hydrogen peroxide (3%) — lifts deep stains and whitens grout
Dawn Platinum Dish Soap — cuts through grease in grout
Foxtrot Living Grout Brush — telescopic handle with stiff bristles, perfect for countertop grout lines
Spray bottle
Warm water

Method 1: Baking Soda + Dish Soap (Regular Maintenance)

Best for: weekly cleaning and light grout discoloration.

Mix baking soda with a few drops of dish soap and enough water to form a thick paste.
Apply the paste along the grout lines using your finger or a small spatula.
Let sit for 5–10 minutes.
Scrub firmly with the Foxtrot Living Grout Brush — the stiff bristles reach deep into the grout channels.
Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
Dry the surface completely to prevent moisture from re-staining the grout.

Method 2: Baking Soda + Hydrogen Peroxide (Deep Cleaning)

Best for: heavily stained, discolored, or darkened grout.

Sprinkle baking soda generously along the grout lines.
Spray hydrogen peroxide directly over the baking soda — it will fizz. This reaction helps lift embedded stains.
Let the mixture sit for 10–15 minutes.
Scrub with the grout brush using firm, back-and-forth strokes.
Rinse well with warm water and dry thoroughly.
Repeat for very stubborn stains.

Method 3: Steam Cleaning (No Chemicals)

A handheld steam cleaner is one of the most effective tools for grout — the high-temperature steam penetrates deep into the pores and loosens grime without any chemicals. If you have a steam cleaner, run it along the grout lines and wipe away the loosened dirt with a microfiber cloth.

What NOT to Use on Grout

❌ Vinegar — acidic, erodes grout over time and weakens the structure
❌ Bleach regularly — whitens temporarily but degrades grout with repeated use
❌ Abrasive metal brushes — scratch and chip grout
❌ Oil-based cleaners — leave residue that attracts more dirt

Sealing Grout After Cleaning

Once your grout is clean and fully dry, apply a grout sealer to lock out future stains. Sealed grout is dramatically easier to maintain — spills wipe off the surface instead of soaking in. Reapply sealer once or twice a year for best results.

Keeping Grout Clean: Daily Habits

Wipe down tile countertops daily and dry the grout lines.
Never let standing water sit on grout.
Wipe up cooking oil and food spills immediately.
Do a quick baking soda scrub weekly to prevent buildup.

Final Thoughts

Clean grout transforms the look of an entire kitchen. The baking soda and hydrogen peroxide method is your most powerful DIY tool, and a good grout brush makes all the difference. Seal after cleaning and maintain weekly — your grout will stay bright and hygienic with minimal effort.

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