Bathrooms are very important to our every day life. A clean bathroom that is well designed can actually make or break the sale of a home. Using tile in the bathroom is a very economical practice as it is very durable and easy to clean. However, tiles that are left untouched for a length of time will accumulate mineral and soap deposits as well as grout stains where mildew and mold have grown. Cleaning bathroom tiles is a project that requires a good bit of elbow grease as well as some good cleaners. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
Depending on the severity of dirt and mold, start simply with a spray on bathroom cleaner with a kitchen scrub sponge. Wet the tiles and spray on the cleaner, working from the top to the bottom.
Scrub the whole area, focusing on the surface of the tiles and not the grout yet. Scrub in circular motions putting a good bit of pressure on the tiles. Scrub in straight lines, back and forth on the edges of the tiles. Rinse with warm water.
If the deposits are still clouding the surface of the tiles, try to determine of the residue is from hard water, iron content in water or soap residue. High iron in the water will leave a brown stain. Hard water will leave a green stain while most soaps leave a milky film.
Start simple with a scrubbing of white vinegar. It can be used full strength – just use gloves. If the tiles result in being sqeaky clean and shiny, your task is over. There are bathroom cleaners designed to remove rust or iron deposits, try scrubbing with them next. If all else fails, try toilet bowl cleaner. This is very caustic and should not be left on very long. It can also corrode your plumbing fixtures so keep them rinsed.
Cleaning the grout is a must if they are stained. If your grout is white, spray on a little diluted liquid bleach and let stand for a few minutes before rinsing. Colored grout is better cleaned with a baking soda paste, scrubbed in a circular motion. If these do not work, try using a commercial grout cleaner according to their directions. The key to keeping grout clean is a good scrubbing regularly and dry time.
Tips & Warnings
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Always wear gloves when using chemical cleaners.
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If using spray cleaners, use a facial mask.
