Tile adds a stylish touch to your kitchen, bathroom, and other areas, but it can quickly get dirty. Different rooms have different causes—like mildew in the bathroom, cooking spills in the kitchen, or mud in the entryway. Dirty tiles can make the whole room look dull. Fortunately, you can clean them easily using common household items like dish soap and water.
How Often to Clean Tile and Grout
How often you clean your tile and grout depends on how much the area is used. High-traffic spots like the kitchen and main bathroom may need weekly cleaning, while less-used areas can go a few weeks without it. The key is to check regularly and clean as needed.
How Often You Should Clean Bathroom Tiles
This really depends on your available time. Jamie Taylor, a professional home cleaner, suggests cleaning your bathroom tile once a week if you can.
For many busy people, cleaning the tile once a month is more doable. “For the guest bathroom that isn’t used often, cleaning it once every three months or before a guest comes—whichever happens more—should be enough,” says Taylor. “It’s also good to clean the tile after your guests leave, so you’re ready for any surprise visitors.”
In every situation, it’s helpful if everyone uses a squeegee on the tiles after using the bathroom. “This reduces soap scum buildup and decreases moisture that can lead to mold growth,” Taylor mentions.
Materials Needed for Cleaning Tile
Have these supplies ready when cleaning tile and removing stains.
- Microfiber cloth
- A bowl
- A spray bottle
- Scrub brush or sponge
- Warm water
- Dish soap
- Baking soda
How to Clean Tile
When cleaning tile, avoid strong chemicals like vinegar, even if it’s diluted. Vinegar is very acidic and can weaken grout or damage stone tiles. For most tiles, including porcelain and ceramic, warm water and dish soap are enough.
- Mix warm water and a few drops of dish soap in a spray bottle.
- Spray the soapy water onto the tile.
- Wipe the area with a damp microfiber cloth.
How to Remove Stains From Tile
If stains remain after using dish soap, make a paste with baking soda and water.
- Mix baking soda and water in a bowl to make a paste.
- Apply the paste to the stain and leave it for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Gently scrub the stain with a brush or sponge.
- Rinse with warm water.
- Dry with a microfiber cloth.
Materials Needed for Cleaning Grout
Have these supplies ready when cleaning and removing grout stains.
- A bowl
Scrub brush
Microfiber cloth
Baking soda
Water
Hydrogen peroxide
How to Clean Grout
How dirty your grout gets depends on its material. Traditional grout is made of sand and cement, while newer types have latex or other polymers to resist stains. No matter the type, baking soda is a great cleaner for grout.
- Mix baking soda and water in a bowl to make a paste.
- Spread the paste on the grout lines, scrub with a brush, and leave it for 15 minutes.
- Rinse the grout with warm water.
- Dry the grout with a microfiber cloth.
How to Remove Stains From Grout
Removing grout stains takes more effort, but it’s doable.
- Mix baking soda and hydrogen peroxide in a bowl to make a paste.
- Spread the paste on the stained grout, scrub with a brush, and let it sit for 15 minutes.
- Rinse the stained grout with warm water.
- Dry the grout with a microfiber cloth.
How to Maintain Tile and Grout
Regular cleaning keeps tile and grout in good shape, but there are more ways to maintain their shine.
Minimize Moisture Build Up
After showering, wipe bathroom tiles with a squeegee or microfiber cloth to prevent hard water stains and soap scum. Also, run the exhaust fan during and for 10–20 minutes after your shower to reduce moisture and prevent mold on the grout.
Avoid Harsh Cleaners
Avoid strong chemical cleaners, as they can damage grout. This includes vinegar and lemon juice, which are too acidic. Instead, use gentler, pH-neutral cleaners.
Seal Your Grout
Sealers protect grout by blocking mold, dirt, and grime. How often you need to seal depends on foot traffic, but at least once or twice a year is recommended. Wait at least 24 hours after deep cleaning before applying sealer to ensure the grout is fully dry.
When to Call a Professional
If your tile and grout are heavily discolored, it’s best to call a professional for a deep clean. If grout is neglected for too long, it may loosen, allowing water to seep behind the wall and cause hidden mold.