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7 Best Grout Cleaners for a Brilliant Bathroom

Maintaining sparkling clean grout is essential for the overall aesthetic and hygiene of tiled surfaces in bathrooms and other areas. This article, updated in January 2024 by Carolyn Forté and Elizabeth Berry, presents a comprehensive guide to the top seven grout cleaners, meticulously tested by the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab experts. The evaluation process involves both in-lab assessments on ceramic and marble tile test floors and real-world testing by GH staffers and consumer testers who provide feedback through evaluation surveys. The article highlights several key considerations when selecting a grout cleaner, including the grout material and color, the cleanser's form (spray, foam, or gel), and the scope of the cleaning job. Different cleaners are suitable for various needs; some are specifically designed for white grout, while others cater to natural stone or offer mold and mildew prevention. The importance of reading product labels to ensure compatibility with specific surfaces is emphasized, as certain formulations can damage natural stone or discolor colored grout. Among the top recommendations is the CLR Brilliant Bath Foaming Bathroom Cleaner, praised as the best overall due to its EPA Safer Choice certification and effectiveness on white grout, removing soap scum and hard water stains with minimal scrubbing. However, its use is cautioned for colored grout. For mildew and mold prevention, the Microban 24-Hour Bathroom Cleaner is highly recommended. This Good Housekeeping Seal-holder not only sanitizes surfaces for up to 24 hours but also prevents mildew growth for up to seven days, even on soft surfaces like shower curtains. Its effectiveness is noted, though some online reviewers find its scent strong. The Clorox Tilex Mold and Mildew Remover with Bleach is presented as the best option for severe mold and mildew stains. It utilizes bleach to whiten stains and kill 99.9% of mold, mildew, and bacteria within five minutes, often without scrubbing. However, users should be aware of its potential to discolor fabrics and its strong bleach odor. For stain removal without harsh chemicals, the CLR Mold and Mildew Stain Remover is an EPA Safer Choice Certified, odorless foaming spray that effectively removes stains from various surfaces, including hard surfaces, carpet, and fabric, without killing mold or preventing its recurrence. Its foam, however, may not cling as effectively to vertical surfaces. For natural stone surfaces, which are often sensitive to traditional cleaners, the Granite Gold Grout Cleaner is recommended. This cleaner is formulated without ammonia and acid, making it safe for marble and granite, and it comes with a grout brush. While effective on lightly soiled grout, it may not be strong enough for heavily stained areas. The ZEP Grout Cleaner and Brightener is highlighted as the best for floor grout, a liquid formula designed to be poured rather than sprayed, making it ideal for horizontal surfaces. It effectively cleans white and colored grout but does not kill mold or mildew. Finally, the Casabella Smart Scrub Heavy Duty Tile and Grout Cleaning Brush is identified as a crucial tool, featuring a double-sided triangular head and sturdy bristles for effective cleaning of tight grout lines and corners. The article concludes with practical tips for preventing mildew and maintaining grout cleanliness, including proper ventilation, drying surfaces after showering, regular cleaning, and sealing grout lines annually. A DIY bleach mixture for whitening discolored grout is also provided, with a cautionary note about its effect on colored grout.

22 months ago

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