It doesn’t matter how recently you got your porcelain tiles or new colourful mosaic, because grubby grout, mildew, and mold can make any bathroom or kitchen look shabby. The good news is there are some easy ways to keep your tiles and grout looking clean without harsh chemicals. In fact, most of these products can be found in your kitchen cabinet.
Baking Soda Keeps Tiles Gleaming
Baking soda is more than just a necessary ingredient in the kitchen, it can also be used as a multi-purpose cleaner. It will keep your tiles gleaming and clean of water spots while also breaking away residue. Simply dampen a sponge with water and then add some pure baking soda before scrubbing kitchen and washroom tiles. Rinse thoroughly afterward and you should be left with spotless tiles.
Vinegar to Inhibit Mold and Mildew
Vinegar is an effective and versatile natural cleaner. It acidity restricts mold, mildew, and even some bacteria. It will also pierce mineral deposits and soap scum. Simply mix water and white vinegar in equal parts into a spray bottle and you can get started right away. Don’t be shy, spray a generous amount onto the tiles and then take a sponge to it. Use your vinegar mixture with baking soda for extra tricky spots and stains.
Lemon Juice Removes Stains
Lemon juice has long been used as a natural method to lighten stains on fabrics and blemishes on the skin, but not everyone knows that it can be used in a similar way for tiles. Its acidic nature will cut through residue while lightening the appearance of stains. On top of that, lemon juice creates a harsh environment for mold and mildew, limiting their growth. Its clean scent is just an added bonus.
Add Some Salt
When in doubt: “rub some salt in it.” This might be used as a joke now, but there is wisdom in this expression. Salt kills organisms like mold by dehydration. It’s an effective way to ensure a hygienic room. When using salt begin by dampening the area even though it seems counter-intuitive. It is necessary for the process to work. Coat the area in any kind of coarse salt and leave it overnight. Scrub or clean it all off in the morning
Grout Brush & Toothbrush
A sponge or cloth won’t get into all the nooks and crannies that need to be cleaned. Homeowners need to have a couple of tools at their disposal to ensure clean grout and tiles. Grout brushes can be purchased at any tile store and have a long lifespan, only needing an occasional replacement. If you’re in a pinch though, a toothbrush is also a reliable option. Just dip the brush into your cleaning mixture and get started! They’ll get into every tight area to remove mold and mildew.
Hydrogen Peroxide to Remove Stubborn Molds
If all else fails against a tough mold, it’s time to break out your hydrogen peroxide. Most households have it handy for cuts and scrapes, but it’s also an effective cleaning and whitening agent. Hydrogen peroxide will kill bacteria and mold while leaving your grout glistening. Mix it with white flour to make a paste which you can leave on the tile overnight for more dramatic results.
Steam Cleaning
Steam cleaning machines rely, unsurprisingly, on high heats and pressures. They are very effective at removing residue, mold, and bacterial while requiring no additional agents or chemicals. This makes steam cleaners the first choice for individuals with chemical allergies. It is important to note that steam should not be used for enamel surfaces or silicone joints.
Dishwashing Detergent to Cut Greasy Grime
Sometimes the most obvious options are the best ones. Dishwashing detergent is great at cutting through grease, and will be able to get through shower grime thanks to this! If you’re out of other cleaning products, try using dishwashing detergent to keep your tiles looking gorgeous.
Conclusion
You don’t have to treat your tiles and grout with harsh chemicals to keep them clean. You can use ingredients from your pantry to keep them spotless.
