Contents
- The Top 8
- Top 8 Grout Cleaners Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Editor’s Choice
- 2. Best Heavy-Duty
- 3. Runner-Up
- 4. Best Budget
- 5. Best for Daily Use
- 6. Best Design
- 7. Best Compact
- 8. Best for Small Spaces
- Grout Cleaners Compared Side by Side
- How to Choose Grout Cleaners
- How We Reviewed
- Frequently asked questions
- What to look for
Choosing the right grout cleaner can be hard. The floor tile grout cleaner reviews will help you decide. Our top pick is the Zep Grout Cleaner and Brightener. Its deep cleaning formula removes old stains effectively. For those on a budget, the Black Diamond Stoneworks Best Grout Cleaner is a great choice, but you give up some cleaning power.
Most buyers have to choose between a heavy-duty cleaner and a gentler option. This page provides insights into the best choices to suit different needs.
Paid links. We earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Prices are pulled live from Amazon and change often. How this works
The Top 8
Top 8 Grout Cleaners Reviewed in Detail
Here are reviews for the best grout cleaners available today. Each option has unique benefits.
1. Editor’s Choice
Zep Grout Cleaner and Brightener – 32 Ounce (1 Bottle) – ZU104632 – Deep Cleaning Formula Removes Old Stains From Grout
- Deep cleaning grout is a tough job, even for pros, but strong acids remove deep stains from grout to reveal the best clean for novices to professionals alike
- This professional strength tile grout cleaner has an acidic formula quickly restores stained grout lines on tile floors without the need for heavy scrubbing
- Revitalize your tile and/or grout with this grout cleaner, specially formulated for white and colored grout lines, ensuring a pristine finish every time
- Use this tile and grout cleaner to effortlessly renew grout, with a formula that is made in the United States, crafted from globally sourced materials ensuring quality and efficacy
- Apply the grout cleaning solutions to stains. Allow for the solution to sit and work its magic for three minutes. Proceed to wipe away thoroughly, revealing a like-new appearance
Zep Grout Cleaner and Brightener is a powerful option for restoring grout. Its deep cleaning formula uses strong acids to tackle tough stains effectively. This cleaner is suitable for both professionals and beginners, as it works quickly without heavy scrubbing.
Compared to other products, Zep stands out for its cleaning strength. Many users report impressive results with just a single application. This cleaner can handle stubborn stains on all types of grout, making it versatile. However, the acidic formula may not be safe for all tiles, so check compatibility before use.
While powerful, the limitation is that it may be too harsh for delicate surfaces like marble. Those with sensitive tiles should opt for gentler products instead. Overall, Zep Grout Cleaner and Brightener is a top choice for tough stains.
Pros
- Deep cleaning formula effectively removes old grout stains
- Works quickly without the need for heavy scrubbing
- Suitable for both professionals and novices
Cons
- Acidic formula may damage delicate tiles
- Requires caution when used on colored grout
Best for: Tough grout stains. Not ideal for: Delicate tile surfaces.
Powerful and effective for tough stains, best for heavy-duty cleaning.
2. Best Heavy-Duty
Zep HomePro Foaming Miracle Grout Cleaner & Protectant – 32oz-(Pack of 1)
- One step cleaning and protection: adds protection each time you clean
- Maintain grout: use on ceramic & porcelain tiles, granite, quartz. Removes daily grime from both tinted and white grout
- XtraGuard Technology : Forms an invisible barrier that helps protect grout for a longer lasting clean
- Fresh scent: Leaves refreshing Mountain Drop scent behind so rooms smell amazing after cleaning
- For heavy duty stubborn stains use Zep Grout Cleaner & Brightener and then maintain and protect grout with Zep Home Pro Foaming Miracle Grout Cleaner & Protectant
Zep HomePro Foaming Miracle Grout Cleaner & Protectant is known for its one-step cleaning and protection. It not only cleans but adds a protective layer to your grout each time you use it. This makes it a great option for maintaining grout between deep cleanings.
When compared to other cleaners, it offers a unique feature with its XtraGuard Technology. This technology helps protect grout from dirt and grime, keeping it cleaner for longer. Users appreciate the fresh scent left behind after cleaning, which is a nice touch.
However, the tradeoff is that it may not be as effective on old, deep-set stains. If your grout needs a deep clean, you might want to look for a stronger option. Overall, Zep HomePro is great for maintenance and light cleaning.
Pros
- Cleans and protects grout simultaneously
- Leaves a fresh scent after use
- Suitable for ceramic and porcelain tiles
Cons
- Less effective on tough, old stains
- May require more frequent application for best results
Best for: Regular grout maintenance. Not ideal for: Deep cleaning stubborn stains.
Great for maintaining grout with a pleasant scent, but not for deep stains.
3. Runner-Up
Zep Plus Grout Foaming Cleaner – 32 Fl OZ – R54212-2-in-1 benefits clean while protecting grout from water, dirt and grime
- 2-in-1 benefits clean while protecting grout from water, dirt and grime
- Gentle formula perfect for tinted grout and frequent use
- Cleans grout, tile floors and backsplashes
- Regular use extends time between cleanings
- Foam formula clings to vertical surfaces better than liquid
Zep Plus Grout Foaming Cleaner provides a 2-in-1 solution for cleaning and protecting your grout. Its gentle formula is perfect for frequent use and especially effective on tinted grout. This cleaner also works well on tile floors and backsplashes, making it versatile for different areas of your home.
In comparison with other options, Zep Plus has the benefit of foam, which clings better to vertical surfaces. This makes it easier to clean grout lines without needing much scrubbing. Users appreciate the fact that it can be safely used on colored grout, which is not the case for all cleaners.
However, the limitation is that it might not be strong enough for heavily stained grout. If your grout has deep-set stains, you may want to choose a more potent cleaner. Overall, it’s a reliable option for regular cleaning.
Pros
- Gentle formula suitable for tinted grout
- 2-in-1 cleaning and protecting benefits
- Foamy texture clings to vertical surfaces
Cons
- Less effective on deep stains
- May require repeated applications for tough grime
Best for: Frequent use on tinted grout. Not ideal for: Heavy-duty cleaning needs.
Reliable for regular maintenance, but weaker on deep stains.
4. Best Budget
Black Diamond Stoneworks Ultimate Grout Cleaner for Tile & Grout, QT/Brush
- Acid-free grout cleaner: Safely cleans grout without harsh acids. Will not degrade grout or damage tile, marble, granite, or natural stone
- Safe on stone and tile: Clean marble, granite, travertine, ceramic tile, and colored grout without etching, discoloration, or surface damage
- Restores grout appearance: Lifts embedded grime to reveal brighter grout lines and improve the overall look of tile surfaces
- Powerful deep cleaning: Breaks down grease, dirt, and soap scum in grout lines. Designed to remove heavy buildup without harsh chemicals
- Fast and easy to use: Spray, wait 1 to 3 minutes, scrub, and rinse. Works with grout brushes or drill brushes for efficient cleaning
- Suitable for kitchens and bathrooms: Use on tile floors, showers, and backsplashes. Designed for routine cleaning in high-traffic areas
- Professional-strength formula: Delivers commercial-grade cleaning power while maintaining a non-acidic composition that protects delicate surfaces from damage
- Made in the USA: Manufactured domestically with a commitment to quality and effective surface-safe cleaning solutions for your home
Black Diamond Stoneworks Best Grout Cleaner is an acid-free option designed for safe cleaning. Its formula is gentle enough for delicate surfaces like marble, granite, and ceramic tiles. This makes it a great choice for homeowners concerned about damaging their floors while still wanting to clean effectively.
When comparing it to other cleaners, its acid-free nature is a significant advantage. Many users find that it restores the grout’s appearance without etching or discoloration. This product is well-regarded for its ability to lift embedded dirt and restore color.
However, the tradeoff is that it may not tackle very tough stains as effectively as acidic options. For light to moderate stains, it’s excellent, but deep-set issues might require a stronger cleaner. Overall, it’s a solid choice for those with delicate tiles.
Pros
- Acid-free formula safe for all types of tile
- Restores grout appearance without damage
- Effective on embedded dirt and discoloration
Cons
- May not be effective on tough, deep stains
- Longer application time compared to acidic options
Best for: Delicate tile surfaces. Not ideal for: Heavy-duty cleaning tasks.
Safe for all surfaces, but may struggle with deep stains.
5. Best for Daily Use
Lumkew Grout Cleaner Brush V Shape, Stiff Grout Cleaning Brushes for Tile Floor, Handheld Grout Scrub Brush Set for Shower, Bathroom, Kitchen, Household…
- V Shape Design: V grout cleaner brush fits precisely into each groove, and reaches deeply into narrow joints. The three-row design also cleaning the area next to the grout
- Ergonomic Design: Upgraded thicker long handle and small U-shape groove design for easy handling and application of force to quickly wipe away dirt
- Tough and Sturdy: Stiff bristles stay upright even after repeated scrubbing, effectively scrubbing away stubborn dirt, debris, soap scum, grease, and oil
- No Damage Surfaces: Quality PP material are mild on hard surfaces and will not scratch surfaces, like tile, grout, floor, sink, drain, stove, window, pot rim, bathtub toilet base
- About Lumkew: We are always committed to providing good grout brush for tile floors, making cleaning easier
Lumkew Grout Cleaner Brush V Shape is designed for deep cleaning grout lines. Its unique V shape allows it to fit into narrow joints effectively. This design helps you reach dirt that regular brushes might miss, making it a good tool for thorough cleaning.
When looking at the tools compared to other cleaning products, Lumkew stands out for its ergonomic handle. This makes it easy to apply force while cleaning, which is important for stubborn dirt. However, this product is simply a brush and does not clean on its own, meaning you will need a cleaner to pair with it.
The limitation is that it requires manual effort. If you prefer a cleaner that requires less scrubbing, a liquid cleaner might be better. Overall, it’s a great tool for those who want to maintain their grout effectively.
Pros
- V shape design fits into narrow grout joints
- Ergonomic handle for easy cleaning
- Ideal for detailed scrubbing of grout lines
Cons
- Requires manual effort for cleaning
- Does not include a cleaning solution
Best for: Detailed scrubbing tasks. Not ideal for: Those seeking a ready-to-use cleaner.
Great for targeted scrubbing, but requires a separate cleaner.
6. Best Design
Clean-eez Grout-eez Super Heavy-Duty Grout Cleaner – Powerful Tile and Floor Stain Remover for Bathroom, Kitchen, and More – 32 oz.
- Ultimate Grime Elimination: Experience the power of a pro-grade cleaner, easily banishing stubborn stains. Make your surfaces shine brilliantly!
- Total Transformation Solution: Unleash the potential of your tiles and grout. This 2-in-1 cleaner will return time, revealing pristine beauty you’ll adore.
- Effortless Stain Disappearance: Witness the magic as stains vanish without a trace. Avoid the hassle and expense of hiring professionals—be the expert at home!
- Unparalleled Deep Cleaning Power: Unleash the heavy-duty strength against years of grime—Marvel at the astonishing results achieved effortlessly on every surface.
- Rediscover Original Brilliance: Say goodbye to dull, aged grout. Rejuvenate and revive with Grout-eez, saving you from renovation headaches. Your home’s authentic charm awaits!
Clean-eez Grout-eez Super Heavy-Duty Grout Cleaner is designed for tough stains. It promises to eliminate stubborn dirt quickly, making it a popular choice among those needing serious cleaning power. This professional-grade cleaner works well in bathrooms and kitchens, where grime can build up significantly.
Compared to others, this cleaner’s strength stands out. Users often report remarkable results after just one use. It’s capable of transforming dirty grout into a much cleaner appearance. However, its heavy-duty nature may not be suitable for all surfaces.
The limitation is that it may be too harsh for delicate tiles. If you have softer surfaces like marble, this cleaner might not be the best choice. Overall, it’s an excellent option for heavy-duty cleaning needs.
Pros
- Powerful stain removal capabilities
- Effective for bathroom and kitchen grout
- Professional-grade cleaning strength
Cons
- May damage delicate tiles
- Requires protective measures during use
Best for: Heavy-duty cleaning tasks. Not ideal for: Delicate surfaces.
Powerful cleaner for tough stains, but not for delicate tiles.
7. Best Compact
ACTIVE Mold Stain Remover Gel Cleaner Heavy Duty Stain Cleaner for Front Loader Washing Machine Seal, Bathroom Grout, Shower, Caulk – Front Load Washer…
- Fast and Effective: ACTIVE Seal & Grout Stain Remover is a Powerful Whitening Deep Cleaner. Mildew Stain Remover has an Instant Effect in Minutes to Quickly Clean Mold Stain and Eliminate Unwanted Musty Dirt and Grime
- Wide Range of Use: Efficient Cleaning for Rubber Gasket, Front Loading Laundry Drum, Cleaning Washer Mildew Stains, Refrigerator Seal Strips, Bathroom Cleaner for Mold Stain on Shower Walls or Caulking Cleaner. Get Rid of Stain on Tub, Tile, Wall, Showers, Grout Cleaner Gel, Bathtub Stain Remover. Wash Indoor House Stain
- Easy Application: See Product Directions for Best Effective Usage. Apply Front Loader Washing Machine Gasket Cleaner Gel Evenly on Seals, or Vertically on Wall Line without the Gel Running – compare to spray or liquid
- Powerful Formula: ACTIVE Mildew Stain Gel Solution Will Clean & Remove Discoloration, Black Spot & Buildup related to Mold Stain, Moisture, Grease in Appliance Seals. ACTIVE Stain Gel is a Concentrated Solution lasting up to a Year per 7oz Bottle
- Gentle Odor: ACTIVE Washing Machine Cleaner Gel is Made from Simple Ingredients – Compare to Other Product with Harsh Chemicals and Heavy Scent that can Damage Home Surfaces
- Important Steps for Best Results: Shake ACTIVE Mold Stain Remover Gel thoroughly for 10 seconds before each use. Remove the cap and apply a generous, even layer of gel directly to the mold- or mildew-stained area. Allow the gel to remain on the surface for at least five hours. Using a clean cloth, wipe away the gel and any loosened residue, then rinse the treated area thoroughly with water. Some surfaces may require a heavier application, and stubborn stains may need additional treatments using the same process
ACTIVE Mold Stain Remover Gel Cleaner is specialized for mold and mildew stains. It works quickly and effectively on a variety of surfaces, including grout. This cleaner is designed to tackle the tougher aspects of cleaning, especially in moist areas like bathrooms.
In comparison to other products, it is particularly strong against mold stains. Users appreciate how fast it works, often seeing results in minutes. However, it is primarily focused on mold, which might limit its usefulness for general grout cleaning.
The tradeoff is that it may not be as effective on everyday grime. If you are looking to clean many grout stains, this might not be the best choice. Overall, it’s a solid option for mold-specific issues.
Pros
- Fast-acting on mold and mildew stains
- Effective for a variety of surfaces
- Works well in moist areas
Cons
- Less effective on everyday grime
- Focus on mold may limit versatility
Best for: Mold and mildew removal. Not ideal for: General grout cleaning.
Excellent for mold stains, but less useful for regular cleaning.
8. Best for Small Spaces
Clean-eez Grout Cleaner 2 Pack with Stand-Up Brush Attachment – Stain Remover Heavy-Duty Scrubber – Bathroom Shower Ceramic Porcelain Tile & Grout Only -…
- Professional Strength Grout Cleaner: Easily remove years of grime from your grout, saving you time and frustration.
- 2-in-1 Cleaning Solution: Restore your tile and grout’s original shine with a single, powerful product.
- Excellent Results, Anytime: Effectively tackle even the toughest grout stains, revealing a cleaner, brighter surface.
- Disclaimer: Not to be used on natural stone, ceramic, and porcelain tile & grout only.
- Innovative Stand-up Grout Brush Attachment: Our purpose-built brush makes cleaning showers and tight spots effortless. Disclaimer: Will not work in every situation, such as sealed grout, natural stone, etc. May require multiple applications and manual application to achieve desired results.
Clean-eez Grout Cleaner 2 Pack is designed for heavy-duty scrubbing. This product comes with a stand-up brush attachment, making it easy to handle while cleaning. It provides excellent results on even the toughest grout stains, making it a strong contender in this category.
When compared to other options, the convenience of the included brush stands out. Users find it easier to control during cleaning, leading to better results. However, this product is focused specifically on grout and may not work as well on other surfaces.
The limitation is that it is primarily a grout cleaner. If you need something versatile for different types of stains, you may want to look elsewhere. Overall, it’s a great choice for those focused solely on grout cleaning.
Pros
- Includes a stand-up brush for easy use
- Effective on tough grout stains
- Professional strength for deep cleaning
Cons
- Not suitable for other surfaces
- May require multiple uses for tough spots
Best for: Dedicated grout cleaning. Not ideal for: Versatile use on various stains.
Strong grout cleaner, but limited to grout applications.
Grout Cleaners Compared Side by Side
The table below lists key features of top grout cleaners. You’ll find comparisons of cleaning strength, formula type, and other important specs. Floor tile grout cleaner reviews will help you find the best fit for your needs.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Zep Grout Cleaner and Brightener | Editor's Choice | ZEP INC | $8.98 | Check |
| 2 | Zep HomePro Foaming Miracle Grout Cleaner & Protectant | Best Heavy-Duty | Zep | $4.92 | Check |
| 3 | Zep Plus Grout Foaming Cleaner | Runner-Up | Zep | $9.88 | Check |
| 4 | Black Diamond Stoneworks Ultimate Grout Cleaner for Tile… | Best Budget | Black Diamond Stoneworks | $21.98 | Check |
| 5 | Lumkew Grout Cleaner Brush V Shape | Best for Daily Use | Lumkew | $6.98 | Check |
| 6 | Clean-eez Grout-eez Super Heavy-Duty Grout Cleaner | Best Design | Clean-eez Cleaning Products | $21.95 | Check |
| 7 | ACTIVE Mold Stain Remover Gel Cleaner Heavy Duty Stain… | Best Compact | ACTIVE | $19.95 | Check |
| 8 | Clean-eez Grout Cleaner 2 Pack with Stand-Up Brush… | Best for Small Spaces | Clean-eez Cleaning Products | $41.95 | Check |
| 9 | APULITO Household Cleaner Gel for Bathroom Shower Kitchen… | — | apulito cleaner group | $16.98 | Check |
| 10 | IVYROLL Grout Brush with Long Handle | — | IVYROLL | $8.99 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How to Choose Grout Cleaners
Consider Cleaning Power
Look for cleaners with strong cleaning power, especially for tough stains. Products with acidic formulas, like Zep Grout Cleaner, are effective on deep stains. If you have light stains, a gentler formula, such as Black Diamond Stoneworks, may suffice.
Check the Formula Type
Different formulas are designed for specific materials. Acidic cleaners work best on tough stains but may not be safe for all surfaces. Meanwhile, acid-free options are safer for delicate stones. Always read the label to ensure safety for your tiles.
Assess the Application Method
Some cleaners come in spray bottles for easy application. Others might require scrubbing tools or brushes. If you prefer less scrubbing, choose a cleaner with a built-in brush or a foam formula that clings to surfaces.
Evaluate Protection Features
Some grout cleaners offer added protection for your grout, which extends the time between cleanings. Products like Zep HomePro Foaming Miracle not only clean but also protect the grout. This is great if you want to maintain your floors longer.
Think About Scent
If strong chemical odors bother you, look for cleaners with fresh scents. A pleasant scent can make cleaning more enjoyable. Products like Zep HomePro leave a fresh scent after cleaning, which is a nice bonus.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
Our data comes from product listings, reviews from users, and expert opinions. We checked multiple reputable sources to gather information about each grout cleaner.
How we built this shortlist
We reviewed over 20 grout cleaners to create this shortlist. We focused on cleaning power, safety, and user reviews to determine the best options.
What we ruled out and why
Some products did not make the cut due to poor user ratings. Others failed because their formulas were too harsh for typical household use.
What we did not do
No products were tested by hand, and we did not take any lab measurements. All evaluations were based on user feedback and expert analyses.
How often this page is updated
This page is updated regularly. We check for new products and reviews every few months to ensure you have the latest information.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best grout cleaner for ceramic tiles?
Zep Grout Cleaner and Brightener is excellent for ceramic tiles due to its powerful formula.
Can I use regular cleaners on grout?
Regular cleaners may not effectively remove tough stains from grout. Using a grout-specific cleaner is recommended.
How often should I clean my grout?
It’s best to clean grout every few weeks to prevent buildup. Heavily used areas might need cleaning more often.
Is a scrubbing brush necessary for grout cleaning?
Using a scrubbing brush can improve cleaning effectiveness. It helps to remove stains better than just using a spray.
Are acid-free cleaners safe for all tile types?
Yes, acid-free cleaners are safer for all tile types, including delicate surfaces like marble and granite.
What to look for
Cleaning Power
The cleaning power of a grout cleaner is essential. For tough stains, choose products with acidic formulas. They work best on deeply stained grout. If your grout is lightly stained, a gentler cleaner may be sufficient.
Formula Type
There are various formula types available. Acidic cleaners are powerful but may damage delicate surfaces. Acid-free cleaners are safer and can clean effectively. Always check the label to match your tiles with the right formula.
Ease of Use
Ease of use matters when selecting a cleaner. Some come in spray bottles for direct application. Others might require scrubbing tools. For less effort, look for foam cleaners that cling to surfaces.
Protection Features
Some grout cleaners offer protection features. For example, Zep HomePro adds a barrier to protect grout after cleaning. This feature helps keep your grout cleaner for longer periods.
Scent
The scent of a grout cleaner can enhance your cleaning experience. Some products have pleasant scents while others have strong chemical odors. If you prefer a fresh aroma, look for those that mention a pleasant scent.
Shopping around? We have 20 more grout cleaner guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- ENERGY STAR clothes washers ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
- ENERGY STAR clothes dryers ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
About the author
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