Keeping the grout in our ceramic tiles looking pristine is a common bathroom problem. Mold and mildew are the main culprits when it comes to staining your beautiful white ceramic grouting.
But what can you do to restore its shine?
If you are wondering how to clean ceramic tile and would like some tips, then read our short guide. We look at the five best ways for cleaning ceramic tile and how you can help your bathroom look its best.
1. Vinegar and Baking Soda
If the grout is mild, you can start with a DIY ceramic tile cleaner such as baking soda and white vinegar. This magic potion combination has been used in households for years. It helps shift tough grime like limescale, mold, and dirt.
Simply pour baking soda and vinegar directly onto a stiff-bristled brush or onto the grout area you want to clean. The reaction will happen quickly and begin to foam, so get scrubbing right away. Add more baking soda if the fizzing stops before you finish.
2. Hydrogen Peroxide
You can buy hydrogen peroxide in most drug stores, and it works great on staining that has begun to set in. You can apply it in several ways. Either directly via a spray bottle or as a paste when mixed with some baking soda.
Leave the paste on the mildew stains for a little while, and it will begin to whiten. Grout is very porous, so the mixture needs a little time to get absorbed for the best effect.
3. Oxygen Bleach
If your grout looks particularly grimy and has not been cleaned properly for some time, you may need to reach for the best cleaner for ceramic tile, Oxygen Bleach. You can buy this from most hardware stores, and it comes in a powdered form. Look for brands like Clorox Oxi Magic and OxiClean.
Leave the solution 10 to 15 minutes before rinsing to let it get fully absorbed. Keep the room well ventilated. Then rinse well to ensure that the dirt is washed away and can not resettle.
4. Commercial Grout Cleaners
A good grout cleaner will not only washes away mold and mildew but also brightens your tile grouting at the same time. You can either use a spray-on cleaner and wipe or scrub with a brush. Both types are equally effective.
Spray-on products may contain chlorine bleach so pay careful attention to the ingredients and any safety warnings. Make sure that if you have already used any vinegar products that have thoroughly cleaned the area. Chlorine bleach and vinegar will combine to make a toxic gas.
5. Steam Cleaners
Steam cleaners can be quite effective at removing mold and mildew and providing a more environmentally friendly solution. If you do not want to use the more toxic solutions, be sure to steam clean your bathroom once a week. At the same time, wipe your grouting with a vinegar solution to help keep it mildew-free.
Keep Cleaning Ceramic Tile Regularly
The best tip when cleaning ceramic tile is to do it often. You should be wiping down your tiles with a disinfectant solution every week or so. The build-up of soap suds is the primary cause of mold and mildew, which causes your tile grout to stain.
Maintain a regular cleaning schedule, and your tiles will shine. Or hire a professional cleaner to help you stay on top of your cleaning chores and keep your house in pristine condition. Contact us to find out more.