Choosing a grout that is darker in color helps conceal dirt and is less likely to change in color as quickly as a light colored grout. It can also enhance the look of the bathroom, helping light tiles to look even lighter.
Choosing lighter colors blends your design together. Darker colors create a more dramatic effect. The shade you pick relies on what you are trying to accomplish in your design. If you want to highlight the pattern your tile creates, a contrasting color is best.
Black grout will never be out of style and will always look timeless and classic paired with white subway tile.
Generally speaking, white or light grout isn't as forgiving of discolorations and staining, and ends up requiring extra upkeep to make it look good. Darker grouts, on the other hand, can hide typical stains better, but they're more likely to fade or stain from cleaners.
Grey, Black and White are the usual go-to but you don't have to be limited by colour. You can decide whether you want to make your grout colour a feature of the design, be neutral or to blend in with your tile colour.
Gray Grout
While some people associate gray with boring, we think it's beautiful and classic as a grout color. Best of all, it's less likely to stain than white, and less likely to fade than black – it's the best of both worlds.
The grout color that's easiest to keep clean is likely to be a neutral shade such as a gray, or a tone of beige.
Choosing a grout that is darker in color helps conceal dirt and is less likely to change in color as quickly as a light colored grout. It can also enhance the look of the bathroom, helping light tiles to look even lighter.
A STATEMENT MAKER - white tile with black grout
An easy way to add a little drama and nice contrast to bathroom floors or shower walls. Plus, this pairing is a classic combination that works perfectly with modern farmhouse interior design themes.
Grout color also has a huge impact on tile maintenance. For example, a darker grout will hide stains but can be prone to fading.
Porous grouts attract water, dirt, oils, etc. While the tile industry does not require sealing, it is always recommended, especially in wet or high-traffic areas. Penetrating sealers are the most commonly used and offer high water, chemical and stain resistance.
Disadvantages. White is the color most susceptible to staining and discoloration. Grout is porous and even after being sealed will attract dirt and possible discoloration from dirt, water, and some cleaners. It may even yellow slightly over time.
It is prone to fading.
Unlike white grout and light grout colors, black grout is more prone to fading. Because of fading, the black grout may lose its beautiful color and luster over time. This is primarily from water hitting against the shower walls over time.
Practical purposes. Looks aside, dark grout works better in kitchens than pure white because it is much more forgiving. Although you can easily wipe messes off the tiles themselves, grout can stain.
White Vinegar and Water
You will need to mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water in a spray bottle. Spray it onto the affected grout joints and leave it for 5 minutes. After letting it penetrate, scrub with a brush and rinse with clean water before wiping dry.
That's another very important clue. Grout almost always appears darker when wet than when dry. New grout can take 24 or even 48 hours before it's completely dry. It depends on the humidity and temperature in the room where the grout is installed.
Dark gray is a good choice if you want the grout to stand out more against the white tile. It provides more contrast without being too bold. We actually used a pearl gray with white subway tile in the pantry of our current home. We love that it doesn't show dirt while giving the tile a modern, but yet timeless look.
Grout turning white is usually due to efflorescence, which the movement of salt or minerals to the surface of porous material (such as your grout) and forms a whitish coating.
If the tile installer uses too much water in mixing the grout and/or during the cleanup of the grouting process they could inadvertently pull out color pigment from the grout that will cause some areas to be lighter than other areas.
The contrast between your tile and your grout color will emphasize the overall pattern and layout of your tile, creating a graphic focal point in your space. A dark grout joint is a great way to add contrast to a classic white subway tile.
What is important to know is that white grout will show dirt more, therefore you'll have to spend more time cleaning it. If you're set on white grout, you might consider using Epoxy Grout, which is stain-resistant.
It's true—grout needs to be deep cleaned every four to six months to stay looking like new. However, by using a sealant and cleaning up spills quickly, you can keep white grout looking great with less time on your hands and knees scrubbing.
Epoxy grout is a better choice for showers, kitchen, bathrooms, and other damp areas because it is stain resistant and requires no sealing, unlike cement-based grout.
Numerous grout types are prone to yellowing. For example, white epoxy grouts are notorious for turning yellow. Certain cleaners, especially those that contain dyes, can cause discoloration of grout. Household bleach commonly discolors grout.