How To Paint Grout. What professionals say

If you have tile floors in your home, you know how important it is to clean the grout. But if it starts to look dirty or stained, you also have the option to paint it.

You can paint grout by cleaning the tiles and grout, applying a color stain, letting it dry for 24 hours, and scrapping off excess stain. After that, vacuum the tiles and grout and wipe them with a microfiber towel.

If you’re like me, then the sight of dirty grout between tiles drives you crazy. It seems impossible to keep it clean and white for more than a few months. Well, I’m here to tell you that it’s possible to paint your grout and keep it looking fresh for years, so stay tuned!

Step 1: Gather Your Tools – A Color Stain & B-Tipped Foam Brushes

Before you start your project, it’s important to gather the proper supplies.

For this project, you will need:

• A color stain: Necessary for giving the grout the desired hue.
• B-tipped foam brushes: Ideal for applying the stain evenly.
• Scrubbing pads: Will come in handy for removing any residue left behind by the stain.
• A microfiber towel: Perfect for wiping up any excess stain.
• An empty container: Needed for mixing the stain.
• A bucket: Used for holding water and soap to clean the tiles.
• A vacuum cleaner: Helps remove any dirt or debris before and after painting.
• A razor blade: Used for scraping off any excess stain from the tiles.

With all of these supplies on hand, you’ll be ready to start painting your grout and achieve professional-looking results.

Step 2: Clean the Tiles and Grout

Before you start painting, it’s important to clean the tiles and grout. That ensures the color stain adheres well and doesn’t chip off easily.

Here are the steps to follow when cleaning the tiles and grout:

• Step 1. Make soap water: Fill a bucket with warm water and add a drop of dish soap.
• Step 2. Scrub the grout: Use a scrubbing pad to scrub the tiles and grout.
• Step 3. Rinse the area: Rinse the area with clean water.
• Step 4. Let the grout dry: Let the tiles and grout dry.

Step 3: Shake the Color Stain Well

Once you’ve cleaned the tiles and grout, it’s time to start painting. But before you do, make sure to shake the color stain well. That will ensure that the paint is evenly mixed and easy to apply.

Shake the can for at least two minutes to get the best results. Just ensure it’s closed tightly so the paint doesn’t spill out.

Step 4: Pour Color Stain Into an Empty Container

After shaking the can, open it up and pour the stain into an empty container. That will make it easier to apply the stain to the grout without making a mess.

Do your best to pour the stain slowly and evenly into the container. If you pour it too fast, you risk spilling it.

Step 5: Apply the Color Stain on the Grout Using a Brush

Now that the stain is in a container, it’s time to start painting. Use a brush to apply the stain evenly on the grout.

Start by painting the grout in one direction and then go over it in the opposite direction to ensure even coverage.

Step 6: Leave the Color Stain To Dry for 24 Hours

After you’ve applied the stain, it’s important to let it dry for at least 24 hours. If you don’t, the paint will be more likely to chip off.

Tip: You can speed up the drying process using any of the following methods:

• Fan: Place a fan in the room to circulate the air.
• Windows: Open up all the windows to allow fresh air in.
• Airco: Turn on the air conditioning.

Caution: Never use a hairdryer to speed up the drying process as it can damage the grout.

Step 7: Scrape Off Excess Stain From the Tiles Using a Blade

Once the stain has dried, it’s time to remove any excess paint from the tiles. The best way to do that is with a blade.

Here’s how:

• Step 1. Hold the blade correctly: Gently hold the blade at a 45-degree angle to the tile.
• Step 2. Scrape the stain: Slowly scrape off the excess stain.
• Step 3. Continue, do not damage the tiles: Be careful not to damage the tile in the process.

Caution: Blades are sharp, so handle them with care to avoid cuts.

Here’s a video that may come in handy if you need a demo on how to scrape off the excess stain:

Step 8: Vacuum Clean the Tiles and Grout

After you’ve scraped off the excess stain, it’s time to vacuum clean the tiles and grout. That will help remove any dust or debris that might be left behind.

Here are a few tips for vacuum cleaning the tiles and grout:

• Soft bristle: Use a soft-bristled attachment to avoid scratching the tiles.
• Multiple times: Go over the area multiple times to ensure all the dirt and debris are gone.
• Check carefully: Be careful not to miss any spots.

Step 9: Wipe the Tiles With Wet Scrubbing Pads

After you’ve vacuumed cleaned the tiles and grout, it’s time to wipe them down with wet scrubbing pads. That will help remove any residue that might be left behind.

Here are a few tips for using wet scrubbing pads:

• Circular motion: Scrub the tiles in a circular motion.
• Dirty areas: Pay special attention to any dirty or stained areas.
• Rinse: Rinse the scrubbing pads often to avoid spreading dirt and grime.

Step 10: Wipe the Tile and Grout With a Microfiber Towel

Once you’ve scrubbed the tiles with wet scrubbing pads, it’s time to wipe them down with a microfiber towel. That will help remove any water or cleaning solution that might be left behind, as well as any dirt or grime. Make sure to go over the entire surface of the tile and grout, paying special attention to corners and other hard-to-reach areas.

Final Thoughts

That’s it! You now know how to paint grout. Just remember to clean the tiles and grout first to ensure that the paint adheres properly.

And be sure to let the stain dry for at least 24 hours before removing any excess paint from the tiles. Remember, if you don’t let the stain dry completely, it’s more likely to chip off. Happy painting!