Grout might not be the most exciting part of a bathroom remodel, but it’s easily one of the most important. It locks your tiles in place, keeps water from rotting your walls, and finishes the look of your shower. Pick the wrong stuff, and you’re looking at cracks, leaks, and endless scrubbing.
Finding the right grout for a shower is tricky because it has to stand up to constant water, soap scum, and humidity. You need something tough, waterproof, and easy to work with. To save you the headache, we’ve tested and reviewed five of the top shower grouts on the market to help you tackle your project with confidence.
- Fortified with polymers
- Suitable for vitreous and non-vitreous surfaces
- Colored grout
- Crack, stain and shrink resistant
- Resealable container
- Suitable for dry and damp areas
- Pre-mixed
- Antimicrobial protective layer
- Usable outdoors
- Smooth, even surface
- Greenguard certification
- Color can be purchased separately
- User-friendly tube
- Ideal for refreshing existing grout
- VOC-compliant
How to Pick the Right Grout
At first glance, all grout looks like colored powder or paste. But inside a shower, the chemistry matters. Choosing between sanded, unsanded, or epoxy can mean the difference between a pristine shower and a moldy mess. Here is what you need to know.
Sanded vs. Unsanded Grout
The choice here depends almost entirely on the size of the gaps (joints) between your tiles.
Unsanded Grout
This mixture is smooth and contains no abrasive particles. It acts like a sticky paste, which makes it great for vertical walls. You should use unsanded grout if your tile joints are narrow (less than 1/8 inch wide). Because it lacks sand, it is safe to use on delicate surfaces that scratch easily, such as glass, polished marble, or metal tiles.
Sanded Grout
As the name implies, this grout contains fine sand. The sand adds bulk and prevents the grout from shrinking and cracking as it dries. You need sanded grout for joints wider than 1/8 inch. It is generally cheaper and harder than the unsanded variety, but be careful; the gritty texture can scratch glossy or soft tiles.
Cement vs. Epoxy vs. Urethane
Beyond the texture, you need to decide on the chemical base of the grout.
Cement-Based Grout
This is the traditional, budget-friendly option found in most hardware stores. It comes as a powder that you mix with water. It is easy to work with and clean up. However, cement is porous. It absorbs water and stains, so you absolutely must seal it after it cures, and reseal it every year or two.
Epoxy Grout
Epoxy is the heavy-duty champion of the tile world. It comes in two parts (resin and hardener) that you mix together. Once it cures, it is essentially plastic. It is waterproof, stain-proof, and doesn’t crack. The downside? It is expensive and dries very fast, making it difficult for beginners to apply before it sets.
Urethane / Pre-Mixed Grout
This is the modern middle ground. These grouts usually come in a tub ready to use (no mixing). They are highly stain-resistant and flexible, meaning they won’t crack if your house shifts slightly. They cure by air drying, so you can close the lid and save the rest for later.
Choosing a Color
Color does more than just look good; it changes how much maintenance you’ll do.
- Matching Color: Choosing a grout that blends with your tile hides imperfections in your layout.
- Contrasting Color: Dark grout on white tile (or vice versa) makes the pattern pop, but it highlights every crooked line.
- Neutral Grays: These are the most practical for showers. White grout shows pink mold and dirt instantly, while black grout can show soap scum and hard water deposits. A medium gray hides both well.
Key Features to Watch For
When reading the label, keep an eye out for these specific terms:
- Sealer Included: Some modern cement grouts have polymer additives that act as a built-in sealer.
- Mold Resistance: In a shower, this is non-negotiable. Look for products with “biocides” or specific mildew-resistant claims.
- Cure Time: Some grouts are ready for water in 24 hours; others take 3 to 10 days. Check this if you only have one bathroom.
- Vertical Hold: If you are tiling walls, you want a “non-sag” formula that stays in the joint rather than dripping down the tile.
Product Reviews
We’ve broken down the top options based on durability, ease of use, and water resistance to help you pick the perfect grout for your bathroom renovation.
Custom Products Linen Non-Sanded Grout
Most Budget-Friendly Grout
If you are tackling a large shower on a budget, this unsanded grout from Custom Building Products is a solid choice. It is a polymer-modified cement grout, meaning it has additives to make it stronger and more color-consistent than basic cement.
Because it is unsanded, it is designed for tight grout lines (up to 1/8 inch) and delicate surfaces. You can safely use this on polished marble, glass, or high-gloss ceramic without worrying about scratching the finish.
What We Like
Great Coverage
A little goes a long way here. One box can cover roughly 23 square feet if your gaps are 1/8 inch. If you have very tight 1/16-inch gaps, you can cover nearly double that area. It’s an economical way to finish a guest bath or a rental property renovation.
Easy to Mix
This is a user-friendly powder. You simply mix 4.8 ounces of water with the box contents, stir for two minutes, let it sit (slake) for ten minutes, and stir again. The texture becomes smooth and creamy, making it easy to push into the joints on vertical shower walls.
Versatile Application
While perfect for showers, it isn’t a one-trick pony. The polymer-fortified formula resists shrinking, so you can use it on countertops, backsplashes, and even tub surrounds. The “Linen” color is a soft, warm off-white that blends beautifully with travertine or beige tiles.
What We Don't Like
Needs Sealing
Since this is cement-based, it is porous. You absolutely must apply a penetrating sealer after it cures to prevent water absorption and staining.
Temperature Sensitive
Don’t apply this if your room is colder than 50°F. The chemistry needs moderate temperatures to set correctly.
Product Specs
| Type | Unsanded, cement |
| Joint Width | Up to an eight of an inch |
| Weight | 1 pound |
| Color | Linen |
| Unique Feature(s) | Not applicable |
Our Ratings
SimpleFix Alabaster Pre-Mixed Adhesive and Grout
Best Pre-Mixed Grout
SimpleFix is designed for the DIYer who wants to skip the mixing drill. This is a “two-in-one” product that functions as both the adhesive to stick the tile to the wall and the grout to fill the gaps.
Sold in a pre-mixed quart container, it is ideal for smaller shower repairs or installing a new backsplash. It saves you from buying separate bags of thin-set and grout, reducing both cost and mess.
What We Like
Zero Prep Time
The biggest selling point is convenience. You pop the lid and start working immediately. There is no dust, no measuring water, and no worrying about getting the consistency right. If you have to stop working, you just seal the lid and come back to it later.
Water Resistant
Despite being an adhesive combo, it holds up well in wet areas. It is formulated to be shrink-resistant and crack-resistant. It bonds well to ceramic, porcelain, and stone, making it a versatile tub of goop to keep in your garage for repairs.
Clean Finish
The texture is smooth and easy to spread. Because it is pre-mixed, the color is perfectly consistent every time; you won’t get the blotchiness that sometimes happens with poorly mixed cement grout.
What We Don't Like
Texture Issues
Some users find the consistency a bit dry compared to traditional grout. It can take a little more elbow grease to force it into the joints.
Not for Floors
While great for walls, this product isn’t rated for the heavy traffic or standing water conditions of a shower floor pan. Stick to walls and backsplashes.
Product Specs
| Type | Sanded |
| Joint Width | 1/16 to 3/8 of an inch |
| Weight | 2.09 pounds |
| Color | White or grey |
| Unique Feature(s) | Pre-mixed |
Our Ratings
Bostik Diamond Grout Dimension
Best Grout for Glass Tiles
Bostik Diamond is a urethane-based grout that includes micro-glass beads. This unique composition allows light to pass through the grout joint, creating a shimmering, 3D effect that looks stunning with glass or metallic tiles.
Unlike cement grout, this formula is pre-mixed and flexible. It resists cracks caused by minor house settling and requires absolutely no sealer, making it a low-maintenance hero for luxury showers.
What We Like
Never Needs Sealing
This is a massive advantage. The urethane binder makes the grout naturally waterproof and stain-resistant right out of the bucket. You save time and money by skipping the sealing step entirely.
Fast Installation
Since you don’t have to mix powder or wait for the grout to slake, you can work faster. Bostik claims you can grout roughly 50% faster than with traditional cement. The formula is also easy to clean off the tile surface during installation, reducing the dreaded “grout haze.”
Mold Defense
The polymer structure doesn’t give mold anywhere to root. It contains antimicrobial protection that actively inhibits the growth of mildew and bacteria, keeping your shower smelling fresh with less scrubbing.
What We Don't Like
Long Cure Time
While you save time on mixing, you pay for it in waiting. Urethane grouts cure by humidity and air. You typically need to wait several days before exposing it to water, which can be tough if you only have one shower.
Safety First
The chemical makeup is potent. It contains ingredients listed as potential carcinogens, so handle with care. Always wear gloves and keep the bathroom well-ventilated during application.
Product Specs
| Type | Urethane |
| Joint Width | 1/16 to ¼ of an inch |
| Weight | 18 pounds |
| Color | White |
| Unique Feature(s) | Contains reflective material, ideal for glass tiles |
Our Ratings
Laticrete SpectraLock Pro Premium
Most Durable Grout
If you want to grout your shower once and never touch it again, Laticrete SpectraLock Pro Premium is the answer. This is an epoxy grout, widely considered the gold standard for durability and waterproofing.
It creates a rock-hard, non-porous seal that is impervious to water, grease, and stains. It is the best possible choice for steam showers or floors that see heavy use.
What We Like
Bulletproof Durability
SpectraLock doesn’t crumble, crack, or fade. It is highly resistant to the harsh chemicals found in many shower cleaners. You can scrub it without worrying about wearing it down. It is also 100% waterproof, making it the safest bet for protecting the subfloor beneath your shower.
Certified Safe
Despite being a chemical epoxy, it meets strict standards. It is Greenguard Gold Certified for low VOCs (volatile organic compounds), meaning it won’t gas out harmful fumes into your home. It’s safe enough for use in schools and hospitals.
Consistent Color
Because the color comes from a separate powder component (Part C), the shade is perfectly uniform. You won’t get the blotching or shading variations common with cement grouts.
Crucial Note
What We Don't Like
Difficult for Beginners
Epoxy demands respect. You have a limited working time (about 30-40 minutes) before it hardens in the bucket. You must work in small batches and clean the tiles immediately. If you leave epoxy haze on the tile, it is nearly impossible to remove without a heat gun and chemicals.
Temperature Matters
It cures best at room temperature. If your bathroom is hot (above 90°F), the grout will set almost instantly. If it’s cold, it takes forever to cure.
Product Specs
| Type | Epoxy |
| Joint Width | Up to an eighth of an inch |
| Weight | 9 pounds |
| Color | White |
| Unique Feature(s) | High-quality materials and results |
Our Ratings
Red Devil Pre-Mixed Tile Squeeze Tube
Best Grout for Small Repairs
Sometimes you don’t need to re-grout the whole shower; you just need to fix a few cracks. Red Devil’s squeeze tube is the perfect tool for the job.
This is a pre-mixed, acrylic-based paste designed for quick patches. It works on mosaic, ceramic, and porcelain tiles. While not meant for a full installation, it is a lifesaver for touching up stained or cracked areas to prevent water damage.
What We Like
Easiest Application
You don’t even need a float for this. Just squeeze the tube directly into the crack, smooth it with your finger or a small tool, and you are done. It is unsanded, so it leaves a smooth finish that blends well with existing grout.
Water Clean Up
Since it is acrylic-based, it cleans up easily with water before it dries. You have about 10 to 15 minutes to tool the joint and wipe away excess.
Mold Resistant
The formula is water-resistant and includes mildewcides to stop black mold from returning to the spot you just fixed. It’s a quick cosmetic and functional fix for aging showers.
What We Don't Like
Shrinkage
Acrylic grouts shrink more than cement or epoxy as they dry. You might need to apply a second coat to get a flush finish.
Odor and Safety
It has a distinct acrylic/ammonia smell during application. Ensure you have the exhaust fan running. Also, it contains titanium dioxide, so avoid breathing in any dried dust if you sand it later.
Product Specs
| Type | Unsanded, acrylic |
| Joint Width | Up to an eighth of an inch |
| Weight | 5.5 pounds |
| Color | White |
| Unique Feature(s) | Easy-to-use tube shape |
Our Ratings
| Product | Best | Type | Joint Width | Weight | Color | Unique Feature(s) |
| Custom Products Linen Grout | Budget-Friendly | Unsanded, cement | 1/8″ | 1 lbs | Linen | N/A |
| SimpleFix Alabaster Pre-Mixed | Pre-Mixed Grout | Sanded | 1/16 to 3/8″ | 2.09 lbs | White or grey | Pre-mixed |
| Bostik Diamond Grout Dimension | Glass Tiles | Urethane | 1/16 – 1/4″ | 18 lbs | White | Has reflective material for glass tiles |
| Laticrete SpectraLock Pro Grout | Durable | Epoxy | 1/8″ | 9 lbs | White | High-quality materials and results |
| Red Devil Tile Squeeze Tube | Small Surfaces | Unsanded, acrylic | 1/8″ | 5.5 lbs | White | Easy-to-use tube shape |
Caring for Your Shower Grout
Even the best grout needs love. Soap scum and hard water deposits build up fast. Avoid using harsh acids or bleach on colored cement grout, as they can strip the sealer and fade the color. Stick to pH-neutral cleaners or a mild vinegar solution to keep your grout healthy for the long haul.
FAQs
Do I Need to Seal My Shower Grout?
If you use standard cement-based grout, yes. Cement is porous and will suck up water and soap, leading to stains and mold. You should seal it 48 to 72 hours after installation and reseal it once a year. If you use epoxy or urethane grout, no sealing is required.
How Long After Grouting Can I Shower?
This depends on the product. For standard cement grout, wait at least 48 to 72 hours before wetting it. Epoxy grouts might allow light use in 24 hours but often need 7 days for a full chemical cure. Always check the manufacturer’s specific instructions.
How Long Does Grout Last in a Shower?
With proper maintenance, cement grout usually lasts 10 to 15 years before it needs significant repair or replacement. Epoxy grout can last a lifetime if the structure of the house remains stable. Cracking is usually caused by movement in the wall, not the age of the grout itself.
Will New Grout Stick to Old Grout?
No, it won’t bond well. If you just smear new grout over old stuff, it will flake off in a few weeks. You must use a grout saw or Dremel tool to remove at least 2/3 of the depth of the old grout to give the new layer a place to lock in.
Which Grout Is Most Waterproof?
Epoxy grout (like Laticrete SpectraLock) is the most waterproof option available. It creates an impermeable plastic-like barrier. Urethane grout is a close second. Standard cement grout is water-resistant but never truly waterproof without a sealer.
Is There a Mold Resistant Grout?
Yes. Most modern grouts contain biocides or “mildewcides” to inhibit growth. However, soap scum sitting on top of the grout feeds mold regardless of the grout type. Regular cleaning and good ventilation are your best defenses against mold.
What Is the Easiest Grout to Use?
What Is the Best Overall Grout for Showers?
For durability and waterproofing, LATICRETE SPECTRALOCK is the top choice. For a balance of ease and performance, a high-quality single-component grout like Bostik Diamond is excellent.
Final Thoughts
If this is your first DIY tiling project, a pre-mixed or high-quality cement grout is your best friend. They are forgiving, affordable, and get the job done. If you are building a “forever shower” and want maximum protection, upgrading to epoxy is worth the extra cost and effort.
Whatever you choose, remember that the prep work matters more than the product. Clean your joints, mix thoroughly, and seal your work if required. Do that, and your shower will look brand new for years to come.
