Tile Cleaning

Cleaning is always a chore, and having dirty tiles or tile grout to clean makes matters worse. Luckily, there are many tips and tricks that make even stained tiles shine again.

General Tile Cleaning

Here are some tips for ceramic tile cleaning:

Before you attack the tub tiles, run hot water over them for a few minutes first. This will loosen the dirt.

If there are stubborn stains, make a paste of scouring powder and water, apply it, and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing it with a nylon brush.

Water and ammonia work well to remove mildew. Rust stains can be rubbed off with kerosene.

Lemon juice and salt removes soot from fireplace tiles. Remember to wash afterwards.

Natural tile stones, like granite or slate, should be sealed every few years. Check the manufacturer's recommendations for cleaning; certain cleansers may mar the stone. You can also buy cleaners specifically made for a type of stone.

In Between the Lines

Stained grout can look great again. Try these methods:

Fold sandpaper in half and go to work on the grout lines. This removes the superficial stains that are often the culprit.

If the sandpaper doesn't work, try a simple pencil eraser on the lines.

If neither of the above methods work, mix some bleach and water, then work it into the grout with a toothbrush.

If none of these work, get a grout remover tool, take out the grout, and replace. Be sure to apply a sealer to the new grout; it will keep it looking nice for longer.

To keep your tile kitchen counters clean for a longer period, spray them with a solution of 1 to 2 tablespoons of household bleach mixed with 1 quart of water. Then, apply sealant or lemon oil, letting it dry for an hour between coats.