How can I effectively clean up the thin layer of grout and haze on my black and white tiled sunroom floor with dark grey grout?
Asked by Carl Roussel 
8 months ago
Last Updated: May 7, 2024
So, we finally finished tiling our sunroom! But, I grouted last night and totally messed up by not wiping it down properly as I went along. I’ve got some spots with too much grout and the whole floor has this annoying haze. It’s black and white tile with dark grey grout, and the haze is definitely noticeable. Any suggestions on how to clean this up? Thanks in advance!
Warm water can really help relax those muscles.
How about using warm water and a cushion?
Unfortunately, I’ve had to do this cleaning process twice….in two bathrooms. I created a mixture of water and baking soda and scrubbed vigorously. Allow it to sit on the floor, then spray it with vinegar and water. It will fizz up and scrub some more. It really does the trick!! However, it does take time. I purchased scrub brushes that I could attach to my drill (seriously saved time & effort) 😉
Did anything affect the grout in between the tiles? How long did you wait after grouting before attempting this?
We actually purchased the house in that condition 🙄, so the haze had been present (along with some grout residue on the tile) for around a week….but it cleaned up easily. Now, considering your haze is only (24-48) hours old, you might be able to remove it with warm water and some patience. Unfortunately, both methods will require some time.
When you combine vinegar and baking soda, you’re essentially creating a solution of salt water. Using just vinegar without baking soda can effectively remove the haze.
Oh no, that’s a real shame!
There is a specific acid wash made for this purpose, I can’t remember the name but I had to use it multiple times…… The water and vinegar mixture can be effective, but the acid requires less scrubbing time and will remove most of the grout…… Just mix it up and apply it to reactivate the old grout, making it easier to remove……
You can also try using a few Mr. Clean Magic Erasers for the job.
Hey Chris, I heard that muriatic acid can be used to remove layers of concrete for etching. I wasn’t sure if it could harm the ceramic tile, though.
Suggested that it might work, but it would be wise to test it under something so it’s not noticeable
Is now trying to remix the grout and it should only be done if it hasn’t set completely
You can find grout haze remover at most stores that sell tile.
A little vinegar and some elbow grease
You’ll need a spray bottle, mineral spirits, a copper scrubber, and/or a sanding sponge.
The fog is common. Just clean it and dry it a few times. It should disappear eventually.
To tackle the white haze, simply mix white vinegar and water, then give it a few wipes. You’ll notice the haze diminishing with each wipe.
If the surface is dry, grab a plastic putty knife from Home Depot to scrape it off easily.
There’s a hard rubber drill attachment available, and don’t forget the water.
Just need a water sponge and some good old elbow grease.
If it’s really bad and covers a large area, you might consider heading to Home Depot to rent a floor scrubber. It could make your life a whole lot easier.
I really value all the advice I received. I came across a real game changer. It was still pretty time-consuming, but it saved me a ton of effort. This tool attached to a drill, along with warm water, got the job done.
Final product