How to Fix Discolored Grout by Staining It: 6 Easy Steps

When staining grout, it’s important to clean it first. Otherwise, the stain might not adhere properly. There are several ways to clean grout, but using a commercial grout cleaner is one of the most effective—and easiest—options.

Before using grout cleaner, put on rubber gloves and safety goggles to protect your skin and eyes from the chemicals. Then, follow the instructions listed on the packaging. This involves applying the cleaner to the grout lines, letting it sit for several minutes, scrubbing it with a grout brush, and rinsing the area with water.

When you finish cleaning the grout, let it dry fully before moving on to the next step. You should wait two to three days.

While wearing your gloves and safety goggles, apply a small amount of grout stain to a hidden part of your tile to make sure it’s the right color. In a kitchen, you could test an area under the refrigerator. In a bathroom, you might apply the stain behind the toilet.

Working in sections of 1 square foot at a time, use an old toothbrush to apply stain to the grout lines. As you go, remove any excess stain from the grout lines and tiles with a damp cloth. Rinse the cloth often to keep it clean.

When you’re done applying the stain, let it sit according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Depending on the product, this can take several hours.

If you’re applying a lighter-colored grout over a darker one, you may need to use multiple coats of stain.

Some grout stain products include a built-in sealer. If yours doesn’t, you can apply a grout sealer after the stain dries. Sealing helps keep your grout clean and protects it from water, stains, and wear and tear.