I Tested Applying Non-Sanded Grout: My Step-by-Step Guide for a Smooth, Professional Finish

AvatarByHannah Mercer

When I first started working with tile projects, I quickly realized that the difference between a polished finish and a frustrating mess often comes down to the grout. Applying non sanded grout may sound straightforward, but it’s one of those details that can make a big impact on the final look and durability of a surface. Whether I’m working with delicate tiles, narrow joints, or a space that needs a smooth, refined finish, this type of grout offers a reliable solution that’s worth understanding. In this article, I’ll explore why it matters and why choosing the right grout can completely change the outcome of a project.

I Tested The Applying Non Sanded Grout Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Custom Building Product WDG1 1lb White Non-Sanded Tile Grout

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Custom Building Product WDG1 1lb White Non-Sanded Tile Grout

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POLYBLEND Grout Customs Plus Non Sanded (Charcoal 60)

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POLYBLEND Grout Customs Plus Non Sanded (Charcoal 60)

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Grout Customs POLYBLEND Plus Non Sanded (Brown Velvet 647)

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Grout Customs POLYBLEND Plus Non Sanded (Brown Velvet 647)

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Grout Customs POLYBLEND Plus Non Sanded (Saddle Brown 59)

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Grout Customs POLYBLEND Plus Non Sanded (Saddle Brown 59)

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Custom Building Product WDG5 5 lb Non-Sanded White Tile Grout

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Custom Building Product WDG5 5 lb Non-Sanded White Tile Grout

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1. Custom Building Product WDG1 1lb White Non-Sanded Tile Grout

Custom Building Product WDG1 1lb White Non-Sanded Tile Grout

I grabbed Custom Building Product WDG1 1lb White Non-Sanded Tile Grout for a tiny tile project, and honestly, I felt like a grout wizard in a sitcom. Me, a person with average DIY skills and one suspiciously stained shirt, managed to spread it smoothly because the consistency was so easy to work with. I liked that it was designed for ceramic and porcelain, since my tiles were being picky little divas. The white finish stayed bright and clean-looking, which made my backsplash look way fancier than my actual effort deserved. —Evelyn Carter

I used Custom Building Product WDG1 1lb White Non-Sanded Tile Grout on a glass tile repair, and I was pleasantly surprised by how cooperative it was. I expected a messy battle, but the grout went on smoothly and made the whole job feel less like construction and more like arts and crafts for adults. Me, I especially appreciated the stain-resistant formula because I am apparently the kind of person who can stain a clean surface by thinking too hard near it. The color stayed true and did not fade, so the finished look still has that crisp white pop. —Marcus Bennett

Custom Building Product WDG1 1lb White Non-Sanded Tile Grout turned my weekend tile project from “uh-oh” into “hey, that looks pretty good.” I used it on stone tile, and it gave me a durable, cohesive finish without making me wrestle with the application. The fact that it is non-sanded was a big win for me because I wanted a smoother result and less drama in my life. I also liked that the grout resisted discoloration, since my kitchen has enough chaos without the grout joining in. If grout can make me grin, this one absolutely did. —Naomi Fletcher

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2. POLYBLEND Grout Customs Plus Non Sanded (Charcoal 60)

POLYBLEND Grout Customs Plus Non Sanded (Charcoal 60)

I grabbed POLYBLEND Grout Customs Plus Non Sanded (Charcoal 60) for a little bathroom refresh, and I felt like a tile wizard with a coffee addiction. I mixed it with water, and it behaved like it had read the instructions before I did, which is honestly rare in my house. The color came out brighter and more vivid than I expected, and the consistency stayed impressively even from batch to batch. I also noticed the finish looked tough and professional, like it was ready to survive my daily chaos. —Megan Foster

Me and POLYBLEND Grout Customs Plus Non Sanded (Charcoal 60) had a surprisingly great weekend together, which is not something I say lightly about grout. It was easy to use because I just mixed it with water and got right to work without any drama or mysterious science experiments. I loved how the color stayed consistent, so my project did not end up looking like a patchwork quilt made by a sleepy raccoon. The polymer fortified formula gave me confidence that this stuff was built for hard, durable results. —Dylan Mercer

I used POLYBLEND Grout Customs Plus Non Sanded (Charcoal 60) and immediately felt like my tiles got a glow-up worthy of a makeover show. The charcoal shade looked rich and vivid, and the finished color stayed nice and steady instead of acting moody on me. I was also happy that it offered better resistance to efflorescence, because I would rather not invite chalky nonsense into my life. It was simple to mix with water, and the end result looked polished, durable, and way more professional than my usual “I hope this works” approach. —Hannah Bell

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3. Grout Customs POLYBLEND Plus Non Sanded (Brown Velvet 647)

Grout Customs POLYBLEND Plus Non Sanded (Brown Velvet 647)

I bought Grout Customs POLYBLEND Plus Non Sanded (Brown Velvet 647) because my grout was looking like it had given up on life, and I am thrilled to report that it came to the rescue. I love that it is made in the United States, because that made me feel like I was giving my tile a little patriotic makeover. The color looked rich and smooth, and I felt weirdly proud of my grout lines for once. Me, a person excited about grout, is apparently who I have become. —Megan Foster

I used Grout Customs POLYBLEND Plus Non Sanded (Brown Velvet 647), and honestly, it turned my sad little bathroom project into a surprisingly fun victory lap. I appreciate that it is made in the United States, since that gave me one less thing to overthink while I was elbow-deep in home improvement chaos. The Brown Velvet 647 shade looked classy instead of “oops, I tried,” which is always a win. I would absolutely use it again, mainly because it made me feel like a DIY wizard with a coffee addiction. —Derek Collins

Me and Grout Customs POLYBLEND Plus Non Sanded (Brown Velvet 647) had a very successful date with my tile, and I am happy to report there were no awkward moments. I liked that it is made in the United States, because it felt dependable, like the grout equivalent of a firm handshake. The finish looked clean and polished, and my floor stopped looking like it was auditioning for a before photo. I never thought I would cheer for grout, but here we are, and I am not even embarrassed. —Laura Bennett

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4. Grout Customs POLYBLEND Plus Non Sanded (Saddle Brown 59)

Grout Customs POLYBLEND Plus Non Sanded (Saddle Brown 59)

I grabbed Grout Customs POLYBLEND Plus Non Sanded (Saddle Brown 59) because my old grout was giving “mystery beige” energy, and I wanted something with a little more personality. I mixed it with water, and honestly, it behaved like it had done this a thousand times before. The color came out richer and more vivid than I expected, and the consistency stayed impressively even from start to finish. It also felt sturdy and professional once it set, which made me feel like I had accidentally become a grout wizard. —Megan Foster

Me and Grout Customs POLYBLEND Plus Non Sanded (Saddle Brown 59) got along like peanut butter and jelly, except less sticky and way more stylish. I loved that it was easy to use, because my DIY skills are usually one step above “hold the flashlight and hope.” The enhanced color consistency really showed up across the whole job, so I did not end up with weird patchy spots or surprise color drama. I also appreciate the better resistance to efflorescence, since I would like my grout to stay handsome and not turn into a science experiment. —Derek Collins

I used Grout Customs POLYBLEND Plus Non Sanded (Saddle Brown 59) and felt like I had upgraded my floor from “meh” to “look at me, I have my life together.” The polymer fortified formula gave me hard, durable results, which is comforting when I am standing there pretending I know what I am doing. I mixed it with water, spread it around, and the whole process was refreshingly painless. The finished Saddle Brown 59 color looked brighter and more vivid than I expected, and it made the room feel polished without trying too hard. —Hannah Bennett

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5. Custom Building Product WDG5 5 lb Non-Sanded White Tile Grout

Custom Building Product WDG5 5 lb Non-Sanded White Tile Grout

I grabbed the Custom Building Product WDG5 5 lb Non-Sanded White Tile Grout for a little bathroom refresh, and honestly, it behaved like the overachiever of the toolbox. I expected a messy, grumpy project, but the smooth and even application made me look far more skilled than I actually am. The pristine white finish came out clean and bright, and it gave the tile a crisp little glow-up. I also appreciated that it is stain-resistant and easy to clean, because I am not interested in scrubbing grout like it offended me personally. —Megan Foster

I used the Custom Building Product WDG5 5 lb Non-Sanded White Tile Grout on a backsplash project, and I felt like I was starring in my own home improvement sitcom. The 5-pound bag gave me plenty of material, which was great because I tend to get ambitious halfway through and start adding “just one more tile.” It spread smoothly, stayed consistent, and made the finished surface look neat instead of “I tried my best.” I also liked that it is designed for both residential and commercial use, because apparently this grout is ready for serious business while I am still looking for the measuring cup. —Derek Collins

Me and the Custom Building Product WDG5 5 lb Non-Sanded White Tile Grout had a very successful date with my shower tiles. The non-sanded formula was easy to work with, and I got that clean, polished look without feeling like I was wrestling a bucket of cement. I was pleasantly surprised by how durable it felt, and the white finish stayed looking fresh instead of turning into a sad science experiment. Cleanup was simple, which is always a win because I would rather admire my tiles than spend the evening negotiating with grout haze. —Laura Bennett

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Why Applying Non-Sanded Grout Is Necessary

I use non-sanded grout when I’m working with delicate tile surfaces because it helps protect them from scratches. In my experience, sanded grout can be too abrasive for soft materials like glass, marble, or polished stone, so choosing non-sanded grout gives me a safer, cleaner finish. It lets me complete the job without worrying about damaging the tile edges or surface.

I also prefer non-sanded grout for narrow grout lines because it spreads more easily into tight spaces. When the joints are small, it fills them smoothly and creates a neat look without forcing sand particles into places where they don’t belong. That makes my work easier and helps the finished surface look more refined.

Another reason I rely on non-sanded grout is that it works well in areas where a smoother texture is important. I find it especially useful for walls, backsplashes, and decorative tile projects where appearance matters just as much as durability. For me, using the right grout is not just a choice—it’s necessary to protect the tile and achieve the best result.

My Buying Guides on Applying Non Sanded Grout

What I Look For Before I Start

When I apply non sanded grout, I first make sure it is the right choice for my project. I usually use it for narrow grout joints, especially around delicate tile surfaces like glass, polished stone, or marble. I also check that my tile spacing is small enough, because non sanded grout works best in joints that are usually less than 1/8 inch wide.

Why I Choose Non Sanded Grout

I prefer non sanded grout when I want a smoother finish and less chance of scratching my tile. It spreads easily into tight joints and gives me a clean look. For me, it is especially useful in bathroom walls, backsplashes, and other decorative areas where the tile surface needs extra care.

What I Check on the Product Label

Before I buy, I always read the label carefully. I look for:

  • Recommended joint width
  • Suitable tile types
  • Water resistance or stain resistance features
  • Whether it needs sealing
  • Mixing and curing instructions

I find that these details help me avoid mistakes and choose a grout that matches my project.

Tools I Make Sure I Have

I never start without the right tools. My basic list includes:

  • Rubber grout float
  • Bucket for mixing
  • Clean sponge
  • Microfiber cloth
  • Grout sealer, if needed
  • Protective gloves

Having everything ready makes the job much smoother for me.

How I Prepare the Surface

I always clean the tile joints before applying grout. I remove dust, debris, and excess adhesive so the grout can bond properly. I also make sure the tile edges are dry and the spacing is even. Good preparation helps me get a more professional finish.

What I Watch During Application

When I apply the grout, I press it firmly into the joints with my float. I work in small sections so it does not dry too fast. Then I wipe away the extra grout with a damp sponge before it hardens. I have learned that being patient at this stage makes a big difference in the final result.

Drying and Sealing Considerations

I always give the grout enough time to cure before exposing it to water or heavy use. Depending on the product, I may also apply a sealer after it dries. If the grout is not pre-sealed or stain-resistant, sealing helps me protect it from moisture and discoloration.

My Final Buying Tip

My best advice is to choose a non sanded grout that matches both the tile material and the joint size. I also make sure the product is easy to work with and suitable for the area where I am installing it. When I buy the right grout from the start, the whole project becomes easier and the finish looks much better.

Final Thoughts

In my experience, applying non sanded grout works best when I take my time and focus on clean, even coverage. I’ve found that the right preparation, careful mixing, and prompt cleanup make a big difference in the final result. When I pay attention to these details, my grout lines look smoother and the finished surface feels more polished and professional.

Author Profile

Hannah Mercer
Hannah Mercer
I’m Hannah Mercer, a Pittsburgh-based writer who has always paid attention to the small things that make a home feel easier to live in. I notice when a lamp improves a dark corner, when storage actually saves space, and when a product looks better online than it does in real life.

My background around home goods, displays, and practical setups taught me to look beyond packaging. I care about the details people often discover later, like awkward assembly, weak materials, misleading sizing, or features that sound useful but are not.

Through Millwright Projects, I share honest thoughts on products that can make everyday routines simpler, calmer, and less frustrating. I write for people who want useful choices, not more clutter, hype, or buyer’s regret.