The Dos and Don'ts of Painting Grout

DO know that grout paint isn’t technically paint

Many are epoxy sealants with paint added in, and they come in both premixed and custom colors.

DON’T ignore mildew or mold

Grout paint is top-notch at hiding discolored and dingy grout, but it shouldn’t be applied over mold or mildew. Spray a heavy-duty mold killer to KO any fungus before you paint.

DON’T rush the job

Painting grout takes patience and a steady hand. Apply grout paint with a tiny brush — trim the bristles a bit for greater control. Or pour some paint into a crafts store applicator squeeze bottle, and squirt it onto the grout, then spread it with your fingertip. 

DO realize the grout paint will get on the tiles

But that’s OK — it comes off with a scouring pad. (Follow the directions on the grout paint label.) Dried paint can also be carefully chipped off smooth tiles with a straight-edge razor.