How to Darken Grout

Last Updated: March 29, 2019

Tile floors or countertops often show their age over time. Usually this is not a result of the tile itself becoming worn, but the grout in between the tile. Many people opt to whiten the grout, but you also can darken in between the tile with grout stain. Coloring the grout will hide dirt that won't come out, and grout stains come in different colors to complement your tiles. Darkening grout is an inexpensive way to alter the look of your tiles without replacing them. Follow these easy instructions for darkening grout.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Preparing the Grout

1
Clean the tiles and grout. Pour liquid dish soap onto a damp sponge. Gently scrub the surface of the grout lines to remove any dirt or dust that has not absorbed into the grout. Rinse with a clean, damp sponge. Allow the grout to dry for at least 3 hours, or until it is completely dry to the touch. Grout stain will not adhere well if the grout is damp.

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Applying Grout Stain

1
Prepare the colorant. Pour a small amount of grout stain into a paint tray. This will allow easier access to the stain. You may add more stain to the tray when necessary.
2
Paint the grout. Use a small artist's paintbrush and apply an even coat of stain to the grout. Use the stain sparingly on the brush and be careful not to allow any stain to pool in 1 area, as pools of stain will darken spots quickly due to the porous nature of grout. Allow the grout to dry for 1 hour.

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Cleaning the Tiles

1
Wipe the tiles. Remove excess stain that may have overlapped onto the tiles by filling a spray bottle with water. Thoroughly spray the area and wipe down with a clean sponge.
2
Remove extra dried stain. Use a nylon scrub pad to clean any stubborn dried stain from your tiles.

Community Q&A

Question

The grout in our new shower floor is too light. Is there a way to darken it without removing it?

Paula Kesler

Community Answer

There are products designed specifically to recolor grout, and they are usually found in the grout aisle.