Dirty, cracked grout can make a perfectly good bathroom look tired. Scrubbing only goes so far. If the lines are crumbling or stained deep down, the real fix is to regrout bathroom tile. It takes patience more than skill, and the result feels like a brand-new room for very little money.
When Should You Regrout Tile?
Regrouting makes sense when you notice:
- Cracks or gaps in the grout lines
- Stains or mold that return right after cleaning
- Loose bits of grout falling out
If the tiles themselves are loose or water is getting behind them, deal with that first. Grout won’t fix a failing tile bed.
Tools and Materials for Regrouting
- Grout saw or oscillating multi-tool with a grout blade
- Unsanded grout for joints under 1/8 inch, sanded grout for wider joints
- Rubber grout float
- Margin trowel and bucket for mixing
- Large grout sponge and a second bucket of clean water
- Grout sealer
- Safety glasses and a dust mask
Match the grout type to the old joint width. Take a photo of your tile to the store if you’re unsure.
Step 1: Remove the Old Grout
Work slowly along each joint with the grout saw, removing about two-thirds of the grout depth. Keep the blade centered so you don’t chip tile edges. An oscillating tool is much faster, but go gently near the tile.
Vacuum out the dust and wipe the joints with a damp sponge. Clean, dust-free joints help the new grout bond.
Step 2: Mix the New Grout
Mix only as much grout as you can use in about 20 to 30 minutes. Add powder to water a little at a time and stir until it looks like smooth peanut butter. Let it rest for five to ten minutes, then stir again. This step, called slaking, helps the grout cure evenly.
Step 3: Pack the Grout Into the Joints
Scoop grout onto the tile and hold the float at a 45-degree angle. Push the grout diagonally across the joints, pressing firmly so it fills every gap. Work in small sections of a few square feet.
Remove the Excess
Tilt the float almost upright and scrape diagonally to take off extra grout. Going diagonal keeps you from pulling grout back out of the lines.
Step 4: Sponge Off the Haze
Wait about 15 to 30 minutes, until the grout is firm. Wring your sponge out well and wipe the tile in light circles. Rinse the sponge often. A sponge that’s too wet will wash grout out of the joints.
After the grout dries, a thin haze will appear. Buff it off with a dry microfiber cloth.
Step 5: Seal the Grout
Cement-based grout is porous. Once it has cured, usually 48 to 72 hours, apply a penetrating grout sealer with a small brush. Sealing helps block stains and moisture, and it makes cleaning much easier later on.
How Long Does Regrouting Take?
For an average tub surround, plan on a full day. Removing old grout is the slow part and often takes more than half the time. Mixing, packing and cleaning usually take a few hours. Then you’ll wait two or three days before sealing, so pick a time when you can use another shower.
Tips for a Professional-Looking Result
- Mask off tubs and fixtures to protect them from scratches.
- Keep the room ventilated but avoid fans blowing directly on fresh grout.
- Don’t shower on the new grout until it has fully cured.
Finish the Bathroom Refresh
Grout and caulk work together. Once the joints are done, caulk the bathtub where the tub meets the tile. If you’re updating the kitchen next, a peel-and-stick backsplash is a quick upgrade. For painted walls around the tile, see how to paint a room like a pro.
