How to clean bathroom tiles (no matter what type you have!)

We all dream of our bathroom looking as fresh as the day we installed it. But over time, things happen, and your bathroom can collect dirt and grime that make it look less clean than it used to. Without the knowledge of how to maintain your bathroom, finding a solution can be hard.

Luckily for you, there’s no need to fret. In fact, Joe Bargh, bathroom expert at Boro Bathrooms has listed several ways you can clean your bathroom tiles. From porcelain to marble to ceramic, we’ve detailed the solutions to clean these tiles in our blog below. Read on to find out more about the best way to clean bathroom tiles, no matter which type you have.

Polished porcelain tiles

As a result of the glossy finish of porcelain tiles, it’s important to maintain and care for yours to ensure it stays polished and to prevent damage. To clean yours, take the following steps:

1. Sweep or vacuum first

Prior to cleaning, it’s important you first remove dust and debris. You can do this by light hoovering or even sweeping. You can use the soft-bristle broom attachment on your hoover to do so, or just a feather duster. If you opt for the latter, sweep the debris downward and hoover the floor where they fall afterward.

2. Mop with a mild cleaning solution

Next, you can mop your tiles with a mild cleaning solution to ensure all stains are removed. To do so, you can mix warm water with pH-neutral tile cleaner, or even a minimal amount of washing-up liquid. Dip your mop in the mixture and clean your tiles in small sections. Make sure you don’t let the solution dry on the surface – as this can leave visible residue.

If you’re interested in finding out more about how to remove paint from tiles, check out our blog. 

3. Rinse the mixture and dry

After following the steps above, you can now rinse the mixture and dry it. Use clean water to mop the walls or floors again where the tiles are to remove any leftover solution. Then, use a microfibre cloth to pat the tiles dry. A microfibre cloth is the best option as it won’t damage or scratch your tiles.

Matte porcelain tiles

To preserve the finish on your matte porcelain tiles, it’s important you clean slowly and carefully. Take the following measures:

1. Remove dust first

Like polished porcelain tiles, you’ll want to remove the dust first before cleaning. This will ensure you aren’t just wiping dirt around the tiles when you begin wiping them. Again, use a hoover attachment or feather duster for the best results.

2. Create your cleaning mixture and wipe

Unlike polished porcelain tiles, you’ll want to use a different type of cleaning solution to get the best results when it comes to a matte finish. At Boro Bathrooms, we recommend using a degreasing detergent, as these are great at removing grease and grime. You can also use white vinegar and water. Use a mop or a microfibre cloth and wipe in one direction.

3. Dry the tiles

Again, the last step is to ensure your tiles are dry. As matte tiles are porous and therefore can absorb water (which could cause damage), you need to make sure you pat them down with a microfibre cloth after cleaning. Ensure you do this after you shower as well to guarantee the best maintenance. 

If you want to find out more about removing your bathroom tiles – our handy guide explains how to do so without needing a professional.

Natural stone bathroom floor tiles

Natural stone bathroom floor tiles add a touch of elegance to any bathroom. But to maintain their luxurious feel, you must ensure you look after them. Clean them properly by following the below steps:

1. Sweep away dust

Again, the first step in any cleaning process with bathroom tiles is to sweep away dust. For better results when deep cleaning, you should wipe your bathroom tiles whenever you use the shower or bath, then pat dry with a microfibre cloth or piece of kitchen towel.

2. Use an alkaline solution

For natural stone tiles, an alkaline solution is your best bet for ensuring a thorough clean. You can purchase a cleaning solution like this from most shops. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and spritz it across the tiles, wiping them with a microfibre cloth.

3. Air dry with ventilation

The best method of drying natural stone tiles is with natural airflow and ventilation. Open your windows and door to your bathroom to allow the air to enter the room and dry the tiles naturally. This helps to ensure that moisture evaporates from the surface, as well as from the pores of the stone. 

But even after cleaning your tiles, you might want to revamp them somehow, such as by painting them. Discover how to paint your tiles in our blog. 

How to clean grout in your bathroom

Cleaning bathroom tiles can do wonders for the overall look of your bathroom. But to really make things sparkle, you’re going to have to tackle the grout that holds your tiles together. It may require a bit of elbow grease but the overall result will transform your bathroom.

The key to cleaning grout is finding an old toothbrush. For moderate grout stains, mix baking soda with vinegar to form a paste and then work that into the grout with your toothbrush. Leave for half an hour or so and before you know it the grout will be looking pristine. For tougher grout stains, use a specialist cleaner which will really get the grime out, just make sure it isn’t going to ruin the tiles by testing somewhere that isn’t visible first.

Reach out to Boro Bathrooms today for help revamping your bathroom

The team here at Boro Bathrooms knows a thing or two about bathroom tiles. For years now we have been installing bathroom wall tiles and floor tiles in Rochdale, Bury, and Manchester. So if you’re looking for a new set of bathroom tiles that provide luxury as well as being affordable, you’ve come to the right place.

With our expertise in bathroom design and installation, we can overhaul your Greater Manchester shower area – or just provide you with bathroom supplies to fit yourself if you prefer.

Get in touch today to find out more about our vast range of products and the services we have available.