Guide · Home care
Caulk and Grout Care
A friendly, practical guide to the thin lines of caulk and grout that keep water out of walls, floors and cabinets.
Where to start
- Water getting through?
Stop using the tub or shower and dry the area. See if water is getting through.
- Not sure it needs attention?
Try the fingertip test on the caulk around the tub.
- Just want good habits?
Start with the checklist. Keep them dry between uses.
The short version
Caulk and grout are the thin lines that keep water out of walls, floors and cabinets around tubs, showers and sinks.
Signs they need attention include cracks, gaps, peeling edges, missing grout and dark stains that return quickly after cleaning.
Keep them healthy by running the fan, wiping surfaces dry after showers, and cleaning gently with mild cleaners and a soft brush.
If you see a gap or think water is getting through, take photos and share it in writing right away.
Who repairs caulk and grout can vary by lease and location. If you ever have questions, we would love to help.
Four simple rules
- 1Keep them dry between uses
Run the fan and wipe or squeegee wet surfaces after showers. Less standing water means less mildew and longer-lasting caulk.
- 2Clean gently and often
Mild cleaners and a soft brush keep caulk and grout clean without wearing them away.
- 3Look for gaps and cracks
Cracked, peeling or missing caulk or grout is a doorway for water. Noticing it early is what matters most.
- 4Share it early, in writing
A small gap shared today is usually a quick fix. Left alone, it can become hidden water damage.
Your caulk and grout checklist
From the guide’s own checklist. Tick each one as you go. These are examples; your home may need others.
All done. The water stays where it belongs.
The fingertip test
Every so often, give the caulk line around the tub a gentle press with your fingertip.
Healthy caulk feels firm and attached. Caulk that lifts, crumbles or feels soft is ready for attention.
Other signs worth sharing: cracks, gaps, peeling edges, crumbling or missing grout, and dark stains that come back right after cleaning.
If water is getting through
- Stop using the tub or shower if water seems to be getting behind the tile or onto the floor.
- Wipe up any water and run the fan or open a window to help the area dry.
- Look below and nearby for signs of water, like a stain on a ceiling, soft flooring or a swelling cabinet.
- Take one wide photo and one close up of the gap, crack or stain.
- Let whoever handles repairs know in writing, with your photos, as soon as you can.
- Keep the area as dry as you can until it’s repaired.
You did exactly the right thing by sharing it.
Guides that go well with this one
How much do you remember?
4 quick questions from this guide, with a one line why for each. Totally optional, no sign in, and your answers are never saved.
Go deeper with The Perfect Seasonal Home Care Checklist Workbook
Simple, step by step checklists you can write in, one topic at a time, to help any home stay warm, safe and dry through every season.
Keep the full guide handy
The PDF has everything: everyday habits, what to do when something goes wrong, common myths, helpful resources and plenty of real-world tips. Print it, save it or share it with anyone who could use it.
Download the PDFTake it with you
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This guide shares general information to help you, and is not legal or medical advice. Bunklow does not inspect properties or decide deposits.