Can I fix black shower grout myself or hire professional?« Back to Previous Page

The grout between the tiles in our master bathroom shower has started turning black over the last couple of months, and no matter how much I scrub with bleach spray, it just comes back. It’s in a corner that doesn’t get much sun and always feels a bit damp. Is this something I can fix myself with a specific product from ACE Hardware, or do I need to call a professional cleaning company to handle it?
Posted by John Young
Asked on April 28, 2026 10:10 am
Black grout in a Dubai bathroom is almost certainly mold, thriving on the constant high humidity and condensation from showers. Bleach only bleaches the surface and doesn't kill the root structure penetrating the porous grout, which is why it returns.

For a small, surface-level area, you can attempt a DIY approach. Use a dedicated grout mold remover or a paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide, applied directly and left to sit before scrubbing. The key is improving ventilation; run the bathroom exhaust fan for at least 30 minutes after every shower and regularly wipe down wet surfaces.

If the black discoloration returns quickly, feels slimy, or has a musty odor, the mold has likely penetrated deep into the grout and possibly the wall behind it. In this case, scrubbing surface products from a hardware store will not solve the underlying moisture problem. Persistent, recurring mold in a damp corner indicates a issue that requires professional assessment to identify the moisture source, properly remediate the affected materials, and apply antimicrobial treatments to prevent regrowth. This is a common issue in villas and apartments here due to our climate.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on April 29, 2026 2:07 pm