Grout is essential for keeping tiles in place, but it’s notoriously hard to keep clean. If you’ve tried every grout cleaner on the market and your bathroom still looks tired, a grout pen might seem like a quick fix. But can it actually make a difference?
The grout pen I chose and why
To find out, I jumped onto Amazon to make my grout-pen selection. There were lots of brands to choose from—all with similar star ratings. In the end, I went with Glassguard. I’d seen their marketing on Instagram and thought readers might have too. So was it any good?
What is a grout pen, and does it actually work?
The Glassguard tile and grout pen comes in five colours. I purchased the white pen, which is currently $14.99. According to the Glassguard website, the tile and grout marker is designed to refresh and restore the appearance of grout lines in tiled surfaces. It can be used in bathrooms, kitchens or anywhere you have tiles. It can be used on both walls and floors and contains a mould-proof formula.
In all honesty, I had very low expectations about using a grout pen in general. And while it is a quick fix for your grout, I was pleasantly surprised with how it turned out.
How grout pens work
Grout pens are essentially paint pens designed to colour over existing grout, making it look clean and fresh again. They don’t clean grout or fix cracks; they mask the imperfections with pigment. Some also contain mould-resistant or waterproof formulas, like the one I tested.
Testing the grout pen on my shower
The grout pen arrived the next day in the classic black Glassguard box. After reading a review warning that the pen tip was thick and prone to dripping, I made sure to read the instructions carefully.
I cleaned and dried my shower tiles thoroughly. With a damp cloth in one hand and the grout pen in the other, I dabbed the nib on a piece of paper until the ink flowed. Then I got to work.
Grout pen results: my honest review
The application was smooth with no bumps. Although the nib is large, I found it helpful—it made the job quicker without losing precision. Any excess ink was wiped off the tiles easily with my damp cloth. The pen didn’t leak, and I managed to cover the entire shower with one pen (and still had ink left over).
The big test? I used the shower that night. The ink held up
What I loved about the Glassguard grout pen
- It did exactly what it claimed to: it refreshed my grout.
- The application was easy and hassle-free.
- No harsh chemical smell—just a faint marker-like scent.
- The mould-proof and waterproof formula means sealing isn’t required.
What could be better (and what to use instead)
My only gripe—through no fault of the product—is that grout pens aren’t permanent. They’re a cosmetic fix, not a complete restoration. On average, most grout pens last between 6 and 12 months in wet areas like showers, depending on how often the area is used and how it’s cleaned.
If your grout is deeply stained, cracked, or mouldy, better options might include:
- Deep cleaning with a steam cleaner or specialist grout cleaner
- Regrouting to remove damaged grout and replace it entirely
- Grout stain and sealer combos for a longer-lasting colour change
- Professional grout restoration services for large areas or full bathrooms
Colour options and coverage: what to know before you buy
While I tested the white Glassguard pen, it’s worth noting that the brand offers five colour options. However, matching grout isn’t always straightforward. Older grout can darken over time, and even a slightly different shade can stand out once dry. If you’re not using white, it may be worth testing the pen in a discreet spot first to check for a good match.
In terms of coverage, the brand doesn’t list an exact area per pen, but based on my experience, I’d estimate one pen is enough for a standard shower wall—roughly 2–4 square metres depending on tile size and grout width. If you’re tackling a complete bathroom or floor, you’ll likely need more than one.
Grout pen usage tips
- Thoroughly clean and dry grout before applying
- Shake the pen and prime it on paper before use
- Work in small sections with a damp cloth nearby
- Don’t press too hard. Let the ink flow naturally
- Apply a second coat if needed after drying
- Let it dry for 6–12 hours before using the area
The bottom line
The Glassguard grout pen is ideal for anyone looking to give their grout a quick, affordable refresh without replacing it. It’s handy for renters or anyone postponing a full bathroom reno. I’ll be using it again—and I’ll update this review if anything changes over time.
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