Why Yellow Grout Occurs and What To Do About It?

Yellow grout is a common issue in bathroom and kitchen tile installations. Typically, it occurs due to mold,mildew, bacteria, or dirt trapped in the grout lines. If left untreated, yellow grout can also spread anddiscolor surrounding tiles. Furthermore,it can cause harmful odors and be a breeding ground for unhealthybacteria.
​Interested in understanding why your tiled grout may be turning yellow and how to address it? Read on forthe primary culprits responsible and how you can stop or fix the yellow grout issue now.

Causes of Yellow Grout

Here are the primary reasons yellow grout discoloration develops: ​

1. Moisture and Humidity:

Excess moisture from water, steam, or humidity can penetrate tile grout and cause mold, mildew, and bacteria to accumulate over time. It is common in bathrooms and kitchens where tile installations suffer from high moisture levels. To ensure your grout stays in perfect condition, keep it dry and free of water or moisture. Wiping up spills as soon as possible is key to preventing yellow grout issues from occurring in the first place.

2. Improper Cleaning/Maintenance:

​If tile and grout aren't properly cleaned and maintained, it can lead to the accumulation of dirt, grime, grease, and other residues in the tile grout lines over time. It can eventually result in a yellow discoloration that spreads throughout the tile and grout. To avoid this, use the right tile and grout cleaning products regularly to keep your tile and grout looking new for longer.

3. Hard Water:

Getting rid of hard water residue will prevent grout from taking on a yellowish hue. Minerals such as calcium and magnesium found in hard water will stay behind when the liquid dries, eventually causing tile grout discoloration. To avoid this situation entirely, hire a professional tile and grout cleaning service to erase any trace of hard water before it can cause damage. ​

4. Using cleaning products containing oils and waxes:

Your shower tiles can become discolored with yellow or orange hues due to the chemicals in cleaning products, especially those containing waxes and oils. These build up on grout over time, necessitating removal using a degreaser and a bleaching agent to restore lightness. But, when utilizing such cleaners, pay attention to their effectiveness and the potential damage they may cause if used too frequently!

5. Product Spills:

​Take immediate action when you notice a spill on tile grout. Moreover, ensure the cleaning products and sealants used on tiles are free of strong chemicals, as they can leave behind discolored residue over time. Invest in quality materials that guarantee long-lasting protection without compromising the aesthetics of your tiling project.

6. Cigarette Smoking:

Cigarette smoke can especially damage grout on tiles. The chemical compounds in tobacco smoke stay behind on tile and grout, leading to yellow discoloration over time. Cleaning your grout regularly will keep them looking pristine for longer. Furthermore, you can use deodorizers to make the area smell better by removing smoke odors. What is the best way to preserve your tiles from yellow grout or other harm? Make sure that smoking happens outdoors! ​

The Bottom Line: Maintenance is Key

​As you can see, yellow grout discoloration is a problem caused by various factors. The best way to prevent it from happening in the first place is regular tile and grout cleaning and maintenance. Opt for professional tile and grout cleaning services from Orlando Tile and Grout Cleaners at least once a year (or more frequently if needed) to keep your space at its best. Not only does this help keep tile grout stain free, but it also extends the life of tile installations to maintain their beauty for years.