How to Clean Shower Tile

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Cleaning your shower tiles is simple, but it may take some time depending on how dirty they are. You can use a commercial cleaning product to clean, or you can create your own cleaner out of a few ingredients that you likely already have in your home. [1] Start by pre-treating the tiles with a water-vinegar solution. Then apply a baking soda paste to the tiles and use a stiff bristle brush to scrub away scum, mildew, and grime. Prevent future buildup by drying your tiles four to fives times a week after showering.

Part 1
Part 1 of 3:

Pre-Treating Soap Scum

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    Let the hot water run for at least 10 minutes. The hot water will open the tile’s pores, making it easier to clean. [2]
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    Mix the ingredients together in the bowl until they are well-combined. Then fill a spray bottle with the solution. [3]
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    Make sure to spray more solution onto dirtier areas, as well as the spaces in between the tiles, i.e., the grout. [4]
    • Since you will be using this solution later on, do not use up all of the solution at this point, or make more solution as you clean.
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    This will loosen the soap scum. Depending on how dirty your tiles are, you may need to let the solution set for 30 minutes or longer. [5]
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    Use a stiff bristle brush or a grout brush to do this. This will further loosen the soap scum, making the tiles easier to clean. [6]
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    Do this by turning your shower on again. Use a lower temperature setting. However, the water should still be warm. [7]
    • Alternatively, you can use a bucket or a pitcher to rinse the tiles.
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Part 2
Part 2 of 3:

Cleaning the Tiles with a Baking Soda Paste

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    Mix the baking soda and water together until it forms a thick paste. The paste should have a toothpaste-like consistency. If the mixture is thin, then keep adding more baking soda until it reaches the desired thickness. [8]
    • For tough stains, add hydrogen peroxide to the mix by substituting half of the water with peroxide. You can even add some dish soap. [9]
    • Alternatively, you can use a tile cleaner to clean your tiles if you do not want to use a baking soda paste.
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    Do this by spreading the paste over the tiles. [10] Make sure to apply a generous amount in between the tiles and on tough stains. [11]
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    The vinegar will react with the baking soda, making it bubble. The vinegar helps the paste eat through the soap scum. [12]
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    Use a stiff bristle brush or a grout brush. [13] Scrub your tiles in a circular motion. Use pressure to remove tough stains and mildew from the tile, as well as when cleaning in between the tiles. [14]
    • For small crevices, use a toothbrush.
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    Use a bucket or pitcher to rinse your tiles. Pour the water over the tiles until all the soap and residue are removed.
    • You may need to rinse your tiles three to five times.
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    This will prevent water from pooling in corners and crevices, which will help in the prevention of mold and mildew growth. [15]
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Part 3
Part 3 of 3:

Preventing Buildup

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    Do this after you finish showering two to three times a week. This will help keep your shower tiles clean for a longer period of time. [16]
    • Keep a spray bottle labeled “shower spray” in your shower for easy access. If you have children, keep the bottle up high and out of reach.
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    Do this by keeping a squeegee in your bathroom. Squeegee your bathroom tiles five to seven times a week after showering. [17]
    • Make sure to squeegee corners and crevices.
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    Keep a specially designated towel handy in your bathroom to do this. Dry your tiles off five to seven times a week after showering. [18]
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    Will this method work, and is it safe for septic systems?
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    Yes, baking soda and vinegar are common household ingredients that are considered to be septic safe.
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      References

      1. ↑ Fabricio Ferraz. House Cleaning Professional. Expert Interview. 16 August 2019.
      2. ↑ Fabricio Ferraz. House Cleaning Professional. Expert Interview. 16 August 2019.
      3. ↑ https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/how-to-clean-grout-138432
      4. ↑ Fabricio Ferraz. House Cleaning Professional. Expert Interview. 16 August 2019.
      5. ↑ Fabricio Ferraz. House Cleaning Professional. Expert Interview. 16 August 2019.
      6. ↑ https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/how-to-clean-grout-138432
      7. ↑ Fabricio Ferraz. House Cleaning Professional. Expert Interview. 16 August 2019.
      8. ↑ https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/how-to-clean-grout-138432
      9. ↑ Filip Boksa. House Cleaning Professional. Expert Interview. 20 August 2019.
      1. ↑ https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/how-to-clean-grout-138432
      2. ↑ Filip Boksa. House Cleaning Professional. Expert Interview. 20 August 2019.
      3. ↑ https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/how-to-clean-grout-138432
      4. ↑ Filip Boksa. House Cleaning Professional. Expert Interview. 20 August 2019.
      5. ↑ https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/how-to-clean-grout-138432
      6. ↑ http://www.maids.com/blog/5-steps-for-cleaning-tile-showers/
      7. ↑ https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/how-to-clean-grout-138432
      8. ↑ http://www.maids.com/blog/5-steps-for-cleaning-tile-showers/
      9. ↑ http://www.maids.com/blog/5-steps-for-cleaning-tile-showers/

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      To clean shower tile, first soften up soap scum by running your shower on high heat for at least 10 minutes, then spraying the tiles with a solution of 1 part water and 1 part white vinegar. Let the solution sit for 5 minutes, then scrub the soap scum with a stiff-bristled brush. Rinse the tiles with warm water. For a deeper clean, mix up a paste of 3 parts baking soda and 1 part water. If the tiles are stained, substitute hydrogen peroxide for ½ of the water. Dip a sponge in the paste and scrub the tiles with it. Spray your vinegar solution on the tiles, then scrub them again with a stiff brush using circular motions. Rinse the tiles with warm water and wipe them dry with a clean towel. For more tips, including how to minimize buildup in between cleanings, read on!

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