How to Clean Grout Stains & Remove Mold Stains

Person cleaning floor tile grout.

Mold stains in shower grout is a common problem due to the warm, moist environment in bathrooms, especially when ventilation is poor. Mold stains and mildew stains can quickly discolor grout, creating unsightly and unhygienic conditions. Fortunately, Clorox™ Disinfecting Bleach is highly effective for cleaning moldy grout stains. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get mold stains off grout, so you don’t have to read between the lines!

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By Mary Gagliardi

What you need

Steps for cleaning mold stains from grout with bleach

  1. Prep the area

    Remove any personal care items, floor mats, and shower curtains. Open a window or door to improve air circulation during cleaning.

    open window ventilation

  2. Mix the bleach solution

    In a bucket, mix 1 gallon of water with 1/3 cup of Clorox™ Disinfecting Bleach. This dilution ratio will help remove mold stains on hard, nonporous surfaces. Wear gloves and clothing that you don’t mind getting splashed.

    Close-up of a white bottle pouring out clear liquid, and stream of water from upper right.

  3. Apply and scrub the solution

    Use a nylon brush to apply the bleach solution to the grout and mold-stained areas. Let the solution sit on mold-stained surface for 10 minutes. Scrub heavily stained areas with the brush to effectively clean mold stains from grout.

    Person cleaning floor tile grout.

  4. Rinse and air dry

    Rinse the grout and tiles thoroughly with the showerhead or a bucket of clean water. Allow the area to air dry completely before placing items back in the shower.

    Hand holding a handheld showerhead with water spraying.

Alternative cleaning methods

If you don’t have bleach on hand, here are some DIY options for cleaning mold stains in grout:

  • Vinegar and water solution: Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle and apply to the grout. Let it sit for 10 minutes, then scrub and rinse.

  • Hydrogen peroxide: Apply hydrogen peroxide directly to the grout for a less intense cleaner. Scrub after letting it sit for several minutes.

Tips for Success

  • Allow enough time: Let the bleach solution sit on mold-stained grout for 10 minutes to ensure mold stain removal.

  • Skill level: Cleaning grout requires some scrubbing effort, but it’s an easy task suitable for most people.

  • Routine cleaning: Regularly cleaning your shower and grout with Clorox™ Disinfecting Bleach can help repel mold stains.

For more cleaning solutions, visit our bathroom cleaning products category page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What product removes mold stains from shower floor tiles effectively?

Clorox™ Disinfecting Bleach is a powerful solution for removing mold stains from shower grout and tile floors. When diluted at ⅓ cup per gallon of water and used as directed, it helps clean and remove mold stains from hard, nonporous surfaces. For best results, apply the solution directly to the affected grout, let it sit for at least 10 minutes, then scrub and rinse thoroughly.

For vertical surfaces or stubborn stains, Clorox™ Bleach Gel Spray is a great option. Its clinging formula allows it to stay in place longer, giving it more time to break down mold stains — even on shower walls and grout lines. Always follow label instructions and test on a small area first if you're unsure about surface compatibility.

Can I use bleach on all types of grout?

Clorox™ Disinfecting Bleach is safe for use on sealed grout. However, it’s important to avoid using bleach on unsealed or damaged grout, as it may cause discoloration or degradation over time. Always test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure compatibility. Follow dilution instructions on the label carefully and wear gloves when applying the solution to avoid skin irritation.

This guide covers everything you need to know on how to remove mold stains from grout, making it easy to clean mold-stained grout and keep it free from stains. Whether you use bleach or an alternative method, following these steps will help maintain a fresh, clean shower.