How do I clean grout?

For light cleaning: spray with equal parts white vinegar and water, let sit 5 minutes, scrub with a stiff brush, rinse. For moderate stains: make a paste of baking soda and water, apply to grout lines, spray with vinegar, scrub and rinse. For heavy stains: use oxygen bleach (OxiClean) mixed with warm water, apply to grout, let sit 15-30 minutes, scrub with a grout brush, rinse. For the toughest stains: a commercial grout cleaner like Grout-Eez or a handheld steam cleaner. Avoid using harsh bleach regularly (it can weaken cement grout over time). After cleaning: apply a grout sealer to prevent future staining.

How often should grout be sealed?

Cement-based grout (sanded and unsanded): seal every 1-2 years. In high-moisture areas (showers, behind kitchen sinks): seal annually. The water test: splash water on the grout. If it beads up, the sealer is still working. If it absorbs (grout darkens), it needs resealing. Epoxy grout and urethane (premixed) grout do not need sealing. New grout: seal 48-72 hours after installation (after full cure). The sealer prevents staining and reduces moisture absorption, significantly extending the life and appearance of your grout.

What is the best type of grout?

It depends on the application. For floor tile and most walls (joints wider than 1/8 inch): sanded cement grout (the standard, $0.50-$1.50/sq ft). For thin joints on polished stone or glass tile: unsanded cement grout. For maximum stain resistance (kitchens, showers, high-traffic areas): epoxy grout ($5-$10/sq ft, no sealing needed, virtually stain-proof). For easy DIY with good performance: premixed urethane grout ($2-$4/sq ft, no mixing, no sealing). The best overall value: sanded cement grout with annual sealing. The best for zero maintenance: epoxy grout (higher upfront cost but never needs sealing).

Can I regrout without removing old grout?

It is not recommended. Applying new grout over old grout creates a thin, weak layer that cracks and falls out quickly. For the best result: remove old grout to a depth of at least 2/3 of the tile thickness, then apply fresh grout. One exception: grout refresh products (like Polyblend Grout Renew or Mapei Grout Refresh) apply a thin colored coating over existing grout. These are a cosmetic fix (not structural) that can make grout look new for 1-3 years. They work best on grout that is structurally sound but discolored. Cost: $10-$20 per bottle. For grout that is cracked, crumbling, or missing: full removal and regrout is the only proper fix.

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Flooring

Tile Grout Guide: Types, Cleaning & Replacement

Lumberama Editorial Team, Tile & Flooring Installation Specialists Jul 11, 2026 11 min read

Types of Grout

Sanded grout: Contains fine sand for strength and crack resistance. Used for grout joints wider than 1/8 inch. The standard for floor tile, shower floors, and most wall tile. Textured finish. More durable than unsanded. Cost: $10-$20 per 25 lb bag ($0.50-$1.50/sq ft).

Unsanded grout: Smooth, no sand. Used for grout joints 1/8 inch or narrower. Common for: wall tile with thin joints, polished marble and natural stone (sand can scratch), and glass tile. Cost: $10-$18 per 10 lb bag.

Epoxy grout: Two-part resin system (no cement). Does not need sealing. Virtually stain-proof. Waterproof. Chemical-resistant. The best choice for: kitchen backsplashes, shower floors, and any area where staining is a concern. Harder to work with (faster set time, requires more cleanup). Cost: $5-$10/sq ft (2-3x the cost of cement grout).

Urethane grout (premixed): Ready-to-use (no mixing). Flexible and stain-resistant. Does not need sealing. Easier than epoxy. Cost: $30-$60 per gallon ($2-$4/sq ft). Brands: Bostik TruColor, Custom Building Products Prism.

Grout Cleaning

Regular maintenance: Wipe down grout with a damp cloth after each shower. Weekly: spray with a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water, let sit 5 minutes, scrub with a stiff brush, and rinse.

Deep cleaning: For stained or discolored grout: make a paste of baking soda and water, apply to grout lines, spray with vinegar (it will fizz), scrub with a grout brush or old toothbrush, and rinse. For tough stains: use oxygen bleach (OxiClean mixed with warm water), let sit 15-30 minutes, scrub and rinse.

Commercial grout cleaners: Products like Grout-Eez, Bar Keepers Friend, or Zep Grout Cleaner work well for moderate to heavy staining.

Steam cleaning: A handheld steam cleaner is excellent for grout (the heat loosens dirt without chemicals).

Sealing

Cement-based grout (sanded and unsanded) is porous and must be sealed to prevent staining and water absorption. Seal new grout 48-72 hours after installation (after the grout has fully cured). Reapply sealer every 1-2 years (annual in wet areas like showers). Types: penetrating sealer (absorbs into the grout, does not change appearance), and topical sealer (creates a coating on the surface, may add slight sheen). Penetrating sealers are preferred (they protect without changing the look). Application: spray or brush on, let absorb 5-10 minutes, wipe excess, and let dry. Cost: $10-$25 per bottle (covers 50-200 sq ft). Epoxy and urethane grout do not need sealing.

Grout Repair and Replacement

Small cracks: fill with grout caulk or grout repair pen ($5-$15). These are quick fixes but temporary. Full regrout: remove old grout with a grout saw (manual, $5-$15) or oscillating multi-tool with a grout removal blade ($20-$50 for the blade). Score the old grout, remove it to a depth of at least 2/3 of the tile thickness, vacuum the debris, and apply new grout. This is time-consuming but produces the best result. Professional regrouting: $5-$15/sq ft. DIY: $1-$3/sq ft (materials only) plus several hours of labor.