How to Use a Grout Pen: A Complete DIY Tile Refresh Guide

A woman holding a white grout pen to clean dirt floor tile grout in a tile-floored bathroom.

This little DIY was oddly therapeutic. I set out to refresh the stained, discolored grout in our guest bathroom because we’ve got our house on the market. The unsightly grout lines were really bringing down the bathroom’s vibe. Thankfully, a grout pen is an easy solution for fixing grout discoloration without the hassle of regrouting.

Part of the grout issue is our fault – the bathroom is rarely used, so it doesn’t get too dirty, but during our $500 budget bathroom makeover, we didn’t clean up the grout residue from the subway tile properly. Now, there are tiny bits of grout stuck on the tiles that are very noticeable.

A small bathroom with bright white grout lines that had been updated with a grout pen.

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Why Choose a Grout Pen for Bathroom Updates?

When prepping our home for sale, I needed a quick, affordable, and beginner-friendly option to fix grout lines. Enter the grout pen: a versatile tool that makes refreshing bathroom tile grout easy and stress-free.

The results were great!

Our Favorite grout pen

How to Use a Grout Pen Effectively

Shake, Shake, Shake the Pen for Best Results

Grout pens work much like a mix of spray paint and White-Out. To get the paint flowing, you need to shake the pen for several minutes before dabbing the tip onto the grout lines. This step ensures smooth, even application.

Mastering the Technique: Painting Grout Lines

Color Inside the Lines with a Steady Hand

Using grout pens might seem straightforward, but I quickly learned that technique matters. Initially, I tried drawing along the lines as if using a marker, but the best results came from dotting small amounts of paint along a section of grout and then blending it in one swipe.

This process was especially relaxing with a podcast in the background—perfect for DIY enthusiasts.

Note: If you’re switching grout colors, like I did (dark grey to white), you may need additional coats for complete coverage.

Patience is key when applying grout paint. I completed two coats in one evening for full coverage, with a quick touch-up coat the next morning. If your grout is already white and you’re simply refreshing it, the process may take less time.

Grout Pen Pro Tips for DIY Success

Avoid Common Grout Painting Mistakes

Plan Your Path: Always start in the farthest corner and work your way toward the door to avoid smudging your work.
Don’t Rush the Dry Time: Allow the paint to dry between coats for a polished finish.

See how much better the grout looks? For less than $10 and a few hours of effort, this grout pen made a huge impact. It’s one of the easiest, most affordable ways to refresh tile grout and improve the overall appearance of your bathroom.

Grout Pen Frequently Asked Questions

How long does grout pen last?
With proper application and regular cleaning, grout pens can last 2-3 years in moderate-traffic areas. Durability varies based on exposure to water, cleaning products, and foot traffic.

Can you use grout pens on floor tiles?
Yes, but floor applications require additional sealing for longevity. Best results are achieved on wall tiles where there’s less wear and tear.

Do grout pens actually work?
Yes, grout pens effectively cover stains and discoloration. Success depends on proper surface preparation, application technique, and choosing the right color match.

How do I prep grout before using grout pens?
Clean grout thoroughly with a grout cleaner, remove mold/mildew, let dry completely (24 hours minimum). Surface must be free of soap residue and oils.

Can you shower after using a grout pen?
Wait 24-48 hours before exposing to water. Full cure time is typically 72 hours for maximum durability.

What’s better: grout pens or regrouting?

Grout pen: Quick, affordable ($6-15), DIY-friendly, temporary solution
Regrouting: Permanent, more expensive ($200-1000), requires expertise, better long-term value

How many grout pen coats do I need?

Light to matching colors: 1-2 coats
Dark to light colors: 2-3 coats

Note: Allow 2-4 hours between coats

Do grout pens wash off?
Quality grout pens are water-resistant once fully cured. However, harsh cleaners and excessive scrubbing can cause fading or removal.

If you enjoyed learning how to restore discolored grout with a grout pen, subscribe to our newsletter for more budget-friendly home improvement projects and easy DIY tips and follow on Instagram for daily updates.