How to Clean Ceramic Tile in 5 Basic Steps

Whether you’ve just moved or you want to give your ceramic tile back its shine, there are several tips to help you clean it effectively. Are you wondering how to clean ceramic tiles? Here are 5 basic steps that will let you eliminate most of the dirt, preceded by eco-friendly tips.

1 – Clean Ceramic Tile with Black Soap

Black soap is an economical and eco-friendly product that helps remove grease and stains. Often appearing in the form of a soft brown paste, it’s made from crushed black olives macerated in salt and potash.

To clean ceramic tiles with black soap, just dilute two tablespoons of black soap paste in a bucket of warm water (about 5 litres). Grab a stiff-bristled push broom and scrub the floor vigorously with your mixture. Rinse. Immediate effects!

2 – Clean Ceramic Tiles with White Vinegar

White vinegar (also known as distilled vinegar and spirit vinegar) is extremely useful for small household chores. If it’s little used, that’s simply because many users don’t appreciate its sour smell. If the smell of vinegar doesn’t bother you, you can take advantage of its many assets: it’s both eco-friendly and extremely economical.

Pour 3 parts white vinegar and 1 part warm water into a bucket. Mix it all up with a mop, then mop the area to be cleaned without wringing it out. Let this act for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly (especially if the smell is bothering you) and dry the surface with a dry mop.

3 – Use Citric Acid

Are you looking for a natural solution or a biodegradable product to degrease your ceramic tile? Citric acid may be an attractive solution: it descales, dissolves, and deep cleans. Before handling citric acid, don’t forget to protect your hands with thick cleaning gloves.

Prepare your solution by mixing 1 litre of water with 5 tablespoons of citric acid. Dip your broom into this mixture, then clean the surface to be degreased vigorously. Once you’ve achieved a satisfying result, rinse quickly with clear water, then dry the surface with a dry mop.

4 – Soda Crystals to Clean Ceramic Tiles

Soda crystals offer several advantages: they’re cheap, effective, and eco-friendly. However, be careful not to forget to protect your hands with cleaning gloves when handling the crystals (they can irritate the skin).

In a bucket, mix the equivalent of a glass of soda crystals with 1 litre of warm water. Soak your broom in this solution, then scrub the surface to be cleaned. You won’t have to wait long for the result. Don’t forget to rinse with clear water and possibly dry the surface, so as not to leave traces.

5 – Five Points to Remember

To clean your ceramic tile, you have to go step by step. Whichever product is used, these steps often remain the same. So here’s a summary:

1. Choose the most suitable product for the situation based on the cost, the potential ecological impact, and the effectiveness;
2. Protect your hands with cleaning gloves to prevent any risk of irritation;
3. Mix the selected product with warm water;
4. Scrub vigorously with a broom or simply mop the surface, depending on the strength of the product;
5. Rinse thoroughly with clear water and dry.

If you aren’t successful at removing the stains, don’t hesitate to call in a professional.