How to Get Your Bathroom Tiles to Look New Again

Dingy tiles can make your bathroom look old and dirty. While many may consider having the tiles replaced, a much cheaper solution is to remove the dirt, soap scum, water spots, and the film that covers the tile itself. Most tiles are made from a hardened ceramic that keeps its shine for many years. All you need to do is apply the right cleaning materials and tools to bring the shine back out again.

Before you start to clean, check the tile for any cracks, chips, or other damage. It may be that you have to replace your tile in such cases. But if the tile is dingy or discoloured from the collection of soap scum and dirt, then you can use one of the following methods to make the tile look new again.

Homemade tile cleaner

You can choose more expensive cleaners, but the combination of baking soda, vinegar and other household ingredients can cut through the film that covers your tiles. Start by sprinkling a liberal amount of baking soda over the tiles and then sweep it away. This will deodorise and remove any loose dirt particles. For a deeper clean, you can mix the following solution into a gallon of warm water. 

• ½ Cup of Vinegar
• ½ Cup of Ammonia
• ¼ Cup of Borate Detergent  

Be sure to wear gloves as the solution may irritate the skin. But it will cut through the dirt, soap scum, and other materials on the tile. The result will be fresh, clean bathroom walls that will look like new again. 

Grout

While tile cleaning is easy, getting at the grout is a little more difficult. However, there are natural solutions that can pull the grout from between the tiles. You can spot clean the grout by mixing equal parts of lemon juice and cream of tartar and using an old toothbrush. Simply brush the solution into the grout and scrub. This will remove the grout and bring back a like-new appearance.

If the grout is substantial, you can use a larger brush with soft bristles to do the job. Plus, a mixture of baking soda and warm water along with salt can clean the tiles and the grout effectively. The key is using non-abrasive cleaners and brushes that remove the dirt while not scratching the tile.

Mineral Deposits

If your tile has mineral deposits, then you will need to purchase a limescale remover. This is a common cleaning product found in most grocery and retail stores. It dissolves mineral deposits and other effects caused by hard water. Look for mild formulas that keep the tile shiny. Environmentally sound solutions will also protect those that live inside your home from any fumes that might gather.

One final trick is to use lemon oil or spray furniture polish and a microfiber cloth to clean and maintain the shiny, like-new appearance of the tiles once they have been cleaned. Regular maintenance can keep your bathroom tiles looking like new all the time.

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