Cleaning tough stains from bathroom tiles can be daunting, but experts reveal a 30p effective and inexpensive hack to make your tiles sparkling clean…
Plumbnation, a bathroom and kitchen expert, has provided a step-by-step guide to removing stubborn stains using items you likely already have at home. Items such as Baking soda: A natural abrasive that helps scrub away grime and stains without scratching surfaces or White vinegar: A mild acid that can dissolve dirt, grease, and mineral deposits, making it an effective cleaner and Liquid dish soap: Breaks down oils and residues, enhancing the cleaning power of the vinegar and baking soda.
Also, Warm water helps dissolve and rinse away dirt and cleaning agents while a Spray bottle is an easy application of the vinegar solution and an old toothbrush or scrubbing brush provides the necessary abrasion to scrub away tough stains, especially in grout lines and corners.
A spokesperson from Plumbnation:
“Using everyday household items like baking soda and vinegar for cleaning your bathroom tiles is a great way to save money. These items are inexpensive and often already available in your pantry, making this method cost-effective compared to purchasing specialised cleaning products. Not only does this hack lighten the load on your wallet, but it also ensures that you avoid unnecessary spending on commercial cleaners that might contain harsh chemicals.
“This cleaning method is also beneficial for your health. By using natural ingredients, you minimise exposure to potentially harmful chemicals found in many store-bought cleaners. This can be especially important for those with allergies or sensitivities to strong scents and harsh substances. The simple combination of baking soda and vinegar is not only effective but also gentle, providing a healthier cleaning option for you and your family.”
Instructions:
- Create the Cleaning Solution:
In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup of baking soda with a few tablespoons of water to form a thick paste, with a consistency similar to toothpaste. Baking soda acts as a gentle abrasive, which helps scrub away dirt and grime without scratching the tile surface. Adjust the amount of water as needed to achieve the right consistency.
- Apply the Paste:
Spread the baking soda paste generously over the stained areas of your bathroom tiles. Use a cloth, sponge, or your fingers (wearing gloves) to ensure even coverage. Focus on the grout lines and any areas with visible staining. The paste should stick to the tiles and grout, allowing it to work on breaking down the stains.
- Prepare the Vinegar Solution:
Fill a spray bottle with equal parts white vinegar and warm water. Add a few drops of liquid dish soap and shake well to combine. The vinegar helps dissolve mineral deposits and soap scum, while the dish soap breaks down oils and grease. The warm water ensures that the solution is mixed well and ready for cleaning.
- Spray the Tiles:
Spray the vinegar solution over the baking soda paste on your tiles. You should see some fizzing and bubbling as the vinegar reacts with the baking soda. This chemical reaction helps lift and loosen dirt and stains from the surface of the tiles and grout. Make sure to cover all the areas where you’ve applied the baking soda paste.
- Let it Sit:
Allow the mixture to sit on the tiles for about 10-15 minutes. This gives the baking soda and vinegar time to work on breaking down the stains and grime. For particularly stubborn stains, you can let the mixture sit for a longer period.
- Scrub the Stains:
Use an old toothbrush or a scrubbing brush to scrub the tiles. Focus on the stained areas, using circular motions to lift the dirt and grime. The bristles of the brush help agitate the mixture, enhancing its cleaning power. Pay extra attention to grout lines, which often harbour the toughest stains.
- Rinse and Wipe:
Rinse the tiles thoroughly with warm water to remove any residue. Wipe the area with a clean cloth or sponge to dry and polish the tiles. This step ensures that no cleaning agents are left behind, which could attract more dirt or cause discolouration. Drying the tiles also helps prevent water spots and streaks.
Additional Tips:
- For extra tough stains, you can repeat the process or let the baking soda paste sit on the tiles for a longer period before scrubbing. Sometimes, a second application is needed for deep-set stains.
- Ensure proper ventilation in your bathroom while cleaning to avoid inhaling fumes from the vinegar. Open a window or turn on the exhaust fan to keep the air circulating.
- This method is safe for most tile surfaces, but if you have delicate or natural stone tiles, test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it won’t cause any damage. Some natural stones can be sensitive to acids, so it’s important to check before applying the vinegar solution widely.
