3 Tips to Restore Your Grout to Its Original Color

Over time, you may see discolored grout in your home thanks to some tile cleaning products and even water damage. Thankfully, fixing discolored grout can spruce up any area in your home and make it look as good as new. 

There are several ways to fix discolored grout. You can decide to remove the grout completely or look into staining it. Cleaning or restaining grout is less expensive but designed for small imperfections, and sometimes replacement is your best bet. We’ve broken down all your options below.

1. Stain Unsealed Grout

Whether you’re hoping to get your tile grout back to its original color or picking a new color, staining it can be a great option for grout that isn’t too far gone. Staining will only work on unsealed grout, as sealant is intended to help the grout on your tile floor and other areas resist moisture. Sometimes you can tell whether grout is sealed or unsealed by sprinkling a few drops of water on the surface. The drops will bead on sealed grout, while the water will absorb into any unsealed grout. 

You can find grout stains in home improvement or tile stores. Before you start staining grout, do these two things:

• Stain a small, inconspicuous area to ensure there’s no damage and the color is correct.

• Thoroughly clean existing grout with a grout and tile cleaner and grout brush. This process helps make the grout porous, so the stain evenly adheres.

•  Let the grout dry before applying the stain. Also, remove any stain that comes in contact with tiles. While porcelain tile won’t absorb the way other types might, you don’t want stains to sit on the tile any longer than two hours.

Keep in mind that while it’s possible to lighten a dark grout, the process may require multiple coats of stain.

2. Replace the Original Grout

If your grout is severely discolored or damaged, the best option is to replace it. You’ll need grout remover and a manual or power grout removal tool, also available at home improvement or tile stores. Although porcelain tiles are quite durable, be careful not to nick or chip tiles during the removal process. Porcelain tiles are difficult to remove, and you’ll often need to use a chisel to remove the tiles easily. Once the old grout is gone, simply install a new grout. Follow package instructions and if you like the color this time, plan to apply grout sealer.

If grout work is something you’d rather pay someone to do, consider hiring a local handyman service or a tile installer near you. The cost to re-stain grout in a 6-foot-by-10-foot tiled area ranges from $50 to $175; to regrout the same size area is $240 to $350.

3. Apply a Store-Bought Cleaner for Prevention

Avoid cleaning products with bleach or harsh chemicals to keep grout looking great over time. These can gradually erode grout, reducing repellency and leading to mildew and discoloration. If that happens, the only real fix is regrouting.

To avoid discoloration in the first place, periodically clean your tile surfaces with a solution of half ammonia and half water. For protection, wear rubber gloves and run the exhaust fan and open a window. You can also buy store-bought cleaners specifically made to clean your grout and keep it looking its best; just be sure not to mix different cleaner types for safety’s sake.