Seal Bathroom and Kitchen Grout

Clean all grout lines thoroughly first — use a grout cleaner or a paste of baking soda and water, scrubbing with a stiff brush. Allow the grout to dry completely for 24–48 hours before sealing. Apply a penetrating or impregnating grout sealer using a small foam brush or the applicator tip. Work in small sections and immediately wipe excess sealer off the tile surface with a clean cloth to avoid haze. Let the first coat absorb for 10 minutes, then apply a second coat. Test the seal after drying by dropping water on the grout — it should bead up. If it absorbs, reapply. Focus on shower floors, tub surrounds, and kitchen backsplashes. Unsealed grout absorbs water, harbors mold, and can eventually allow water behind tile, leading to wall damage requiring full retiling.