Read this comprehensive tile and grout cleaning tool review to help you pick the best one to help you get your grout clean and looking like new.

Toothbrush. Using an old toothbrush is a common way to clean grout. After scrubbing the grout, it is easy to rinse and wipe both the tile and grout with a sponge to make sure the entire surface is clean. It can take awhile to clean this way and it is not comfortable for most people to be on their hands and knees the entire time it takes to clean a tiled floor. A toothbrush with extra firm bristles will do the best job.

Small Grout Brush. Slightly larger than a toothbrush with more bristles, these specially designed brushes usually have tapered bristles and upswept or curved ends to help you get into corners, crevices and pits in the grout. Starting at not much more than a toothbrush and easy to find at local stores, they can do a better, quicker job, especially if there are stains, mildew or excessive dirt to deal with.

Triangle Grout Brush. One side of the plastic triangle has a few rows of stiff bristles, such as those made by Carlisle and the other sides are for gripping. Many types can be used either handheld or attached to a pole, allowing you the versatility to use it for multiple tiled surfaces. They can be purchased for around $5-$10.

Professional Grout Cleaning Brushes. With v-shaped or tapered heavy-duty bristles, rotating heads and compact designs, these brushes are what the pros use to clean grout and tile and make it easy to reach all the nooks and crannies in the kitchen, bathroom or other tiled areas. You can purchase a decent one for about $30. You can find good ones at janitorial supply companies or online.

Two-in-One Tile and Grout Brush. One of the newest tile and grout cleaning tools is dual-sided with one side of wedge-shaped bristles to clean the grout and another side for the tile. It is easy to flip it back and forth as you work across the floor or other surface. Many also have adjustable length handles, making it comfortable for everyone to use. Prices are similar to other professional brushes.

“Eraser” or Sponge-like Cleaners. Some are similar to a sponge, like Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, and clean the grout and tile as you gently rub. Others, like StainEraser Tile Grout cleaner, are made of rubber and require a little more elbow grease to rub dirt and stains away similar to a pencil eraser. Some leave a rubber residue that needs to be wiped, swept or vacuumed up. They do not need chemicals or any other product to get the tile and grout clean. They range from $1-$20 each. Ones intended specifically for grout are usually a bit more expensive but will do a better job, especially for problem areas. Be sure to read the labels carefully as some of these will scratch or damage some tile.

Power Brushes/Scrubbers. These tools cut down on the time and effort you spend cleaning since the battery-powered motor does much of the work for you. Some have rotating brushes while others use attached sponges or scouring pads, depending on the surface you are cleaning. Most run about 30 minutes on a single charge. Prices are from $20-$100 or more depending on what you are looking for. Handheld, smaller ones are cheaper than ones with larger brushes/pads or those attached to long handles or poles. Look for those made by a quality manufacture for best results such as Black and Decker’s Scumbuster or Power Scrubber.

Steam Cleaners. Using regular tap water heated until it turns to steam, steam cleaners do a great job removing dirt and grime without any scrubbing or chemicals. They can be used on delicate tile and grout without worrying about scratching, discoloration or other damage. Handheld, household models cost around $50 to a few hundred dollars. Professional machines cost a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, but can be rented for around $50 for a half-day.

The first question you should ask yourself is, why is tile grout cleaning so important?  In truth the grout is the first line of defense that protects the tiles from getting broken down by mildew, grime or moisture.  It is also the part of the tile floor that can often trap dirt and grime, so it requires the most maintenance.  In addition, the grout is usually more likely to hold moisture and change color then the rest of the tile.  Keeping your tile grout cleaned is and excellent why to allow your tiled areas to look their best and last for longer periods of time.

The articles on this site cover a variety of ways you can clean grout, from organic grout cleaners to lots of everyday house hold chemical you can find laying around the hose.  Most people that clean their own grout find that is isn’t too bad.  Always be sure to disinfect as you clean, especially in bathrooms and kitchens. When scrubbing tilled floors it may be necessary to use knees pads or a kneeling pad.

On average grout cleaning take about 15 minutes per room.  When mold or mildew has set in it could take up to ½ hour.  When using mold and mildew disinfectants be sure to leave them on for the allotted time mentioned on the label.

If you need to repair or replace cracked tiles or missing grout, you may need to call a tile expert to help you.  They can also steam clean the grout and then seal it for you as well.  Steam cleaning grout often helps to remove ground in dirt and light the color of the grout.  In some cases, bleach will also be needed.  A grout sealer will work to protect the tile and grout for 3-5 years and in some cases much longer.