Whether you’ve got tile floors, backsplashes, or bathroom tile in your bathroom or kitchen, the grout between the tiles can get pretty grimy. Cleaning it is one of least favorite chores, but with the right cleaning solution and a bit of elbow grease, you can get your grout looking fresh and brand-new.

Tile grout gets dirty in many different ways. In the bathroom, it’s usually mold or mildew stains. In the kitchen, it could be a combination of food stains, general household traffic and grime, and mildew. No matter what the cause, start off with the simplest and least acidic cleaning solution first, then try harsher chemical cleaners as necessary.

For some grout stains, simple household items such as vinegar or baking soda can be effective cleaners. Make a solution of equal parts vinegar and water or a paste of baking soda with a bit of water. Spray or dab the cleaner onto a small length of grout and scrub with a stiff brush. Scrubbing in small circles rather than straight up and down will remove more debris. Rinse well with water and mop up any remaining moisture with a sponge or paper towels.

Generic household cleaners such as Mr. Clean, Lysol, or powder-based products can also work on tile grout. Lime-A-Way is effective on certain types of buildup, such as rust and lime deposits. Use these products as directed, wear rubber gloves, and make sure to rinse the grout well after cleaning. Alternatively, if you own or have access to a steam cleaner, try using it on your grout work. The pressure of the steam can loosen debris and stains that chemicals can’t dissolve. Plus, there are no chemical odors or aftereffects.

If your grout hasn’t come completely clean, the next step is to try a commercial tile-and-grout cleaner, which is available wherever home cleaning products are sold. Try to find a cleanser that is pH balanced so that the chemicals in the product won’t erode the grout with continued use. To get the best result from a commercial cleaner, spray it on and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing, and always follow the directions on the label.

For heavy-duty stains, use even stronger products such as oxygen bleach powder, hydrogen peroxide, or chlorine bleach. These products should be well diluted before use. You can find heavy-duty cleaners at hardware stores or janitorial supply outlets. If you go this route, however, be sure to read labels carefully and follow directions to the letter. Also be careful about mixing different types of cleaners. Always rinse thoroughly between applications to avoid combination reactions.