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How to Easily Clean your Tiles

Simple Steps to Clean Tiles

It would be wonderful for our bathrooms to remain shine and grime-free, but in reality, that’s not always the case. Bathrooms are a frequently used space and are bound to get dirty real fast if not cleaned properly or as often as they should be.

If you’ve become complacent in your cleaning routine, then you may have noticed a build-up of bacteria growing in and around your shower, or perhaps you’ve noticed the grout has become a sight for sore eyes. Yikes! Either way, both are unpleasant. This is why regular cleaning is important, as it is hygienic.

Now, you don’t have to be ‘Sadie the Cleaning Lady’ to know all the ins and outs of cleaning (or find enjoyment in it, for that matter). However, we hope the following recommendations on how to best clean your bathroom will help turn it into a sparkling oasis.

Bicarbonate Soda

Also known as baking soda, this gentle all-purpose product should be a staple in every household. It magnificently takes on the toughest cleaning jobs! It can quickly loosen dirt and grime without damaging the surface and works like magic on removing stubborn stains. It’s also known for its deodorising properties and is environmentally friendly.

White Vinegar

Vinegar is a universal cleaning product that is highly effective for cleaning. It’s great at disinfecting germs (such as salmonella & E Coli) and removing soap scum as well as any build-up of minerals in the water. Please use with caution on natural stone and unsealed cement grout as it can strip away these surfaces over a period of time.

Lemon

Lemon juice is a natural cleaning product thanks to its acidic properties. It’s great at killing bacteria and removing mould, and leaves your bathroom smelling super fresh! Just like white vinegar though, the same caution applies to lemon juice.

Preparing Tiles for Cleaning

 

1. Assess the type of tiles you’re cleaning to ensure you won’t cause any damage. Ceramic & porcelain tiles are easy to clean with most cleaning solutions, however, you should dilute your vinegar/lemon juice solution with equal parts water if using on other surfaces. If in doubt, do a patch test. Alternatively, simply stick with a solution of bicarb soda and water (and/or dishwashing liquid).

2. Ensure you have a spray bottle, a sponge or non-abrasive scouring pad, a stiff brush or old toothbrush, and a bowl on hand. A shower squeegee is also recommended.

3.If in the bathroom, you may wish to run your shower for a good 5 minutes with the temperature up high and close the door to the shower area. The steam will help lift dirt particles, making it easy to clean.

Cleaning Tile Grout

 

Step 1. Start with mixing one part bicarb soda and one part water in a bowl.

Step 2. Spread the mixture nicely onto the grout and apply more in areas that are heavily stained.

Step 3. Let it penetrate for up to 30 minutes.

Step 4. Use your stiff brush or old toothbrush to scrub away the dirt and grime.

Step 5. Wipe away with a wet sponge and dry with a squeegee or cloth.

Note: for a deeper and more powerful clean, mix bicarb soda with hydrogen peroxide/vinegar/lemon juice. This will unlock a fizz of carbon dioxide which works a treat in removing difficult stains.

Cleaning Shower Tiles

 

Step 1. Fill a spray bottle with vinegar and water in a 1:1 ratio or mix bicarbsoda, water (and/or dishwashing liquid). Spray across the tiles generously and let the solution sit for 5-10 minutes.

Step 2. Scrub the tiles with a gentle scouring pad in a circular motion.

Step 3. Rinse tiles well with your shower head or bucket.

Step 4. Use a shower squeegee to remove excess water for a streak-free finish.

General Tile Cleaning Tips

These easy tips will ensure your grout stays clean for longer and save you from lots of elbow grease later.

  • Stick to a weekly cleaning schedule. If you do, you won’t give bacteria a chance to breed and it will be easier to stay on top of things.
  • Ensure the bathroom is well ventilated by using an exhaust fan and opening windows and doors. A humid, damp space is an optimal environment for bacteria and mould to grow in, and they will always find a haven in every crook and cranny if you don’t keep them at bay.
  • Wipe down your tiles with a squeegee or a clean, dry towel to slow down and possibly prevent the build-up of bacteria and mould.
  • Seal the grout yearly with a silicone-based grout sealer. This will help to reduce the speed at which moisture can enter it.
  • Avoid leaving wet towels or clothing on the floor as this will only suffocate your surfaces.

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