Cleaning grime off your bathroom and kitchen tiles can be a hassle. It’s a lot of wiping and scrubbing.
There are plenty of cleaning products out there to aid you in your quest for cleaner tiles.
So Why Use Baking Soda?
First, it’s very effective in cleaning tiles. The gentle abrasion of the baking soda can help you scrub off grime easier.
Second, it’s non-toxic and environmentally friendly. You give your nose a break from the stench of chemical cleaners.
Third, baking soda doesn’t just clean things but also deodorize them.
And, last but not least it’s cheap and always available whenever you need it. You probably have some in your kitchen drawer right now.
Are those enough reasons for you? Give this method a try.
Here’s how I clean my tiles with baking soda.
What you’ll need:
6-8 tablespoons baking soda
1/2 cup white vinegar
2 cups water
Sponge or brush
Shallow container
Optional: A few drops of dishwashing soap
Steps:
1. Combine the baking soda, vinegar, and water in the container. You can add a few drops of dishwashing soap if you want. Mix well.
2. Soak the sponge in baking soda and vinegar solution.
3. Start wiping your tiles with the sponge. Use a circular motion. Make sure you clean the tile surface and the grout.
4. After that, rinse your tiles with water.
5. Get a clean cloth to wipe and dry your tiles.
When you’ve finished using the sponge to wash your tiles, don’t forget to clean your sponge using baking soda and vinegar.
Is Baking Soda with Vinegar Good for Cleaning Tiles?
Short answer, Yes.
Baking soda combined with vinegar will not only clean off grime and dirt from your tiles but will also disinfect and deodorize. So it’s an all-in-one cleaning solution for your tiles.
Pretty good for items you already have laying around the kitchen if you ask me.
Does Baking Soda Damage Tiles?
It should be safe to use for most kinds of bathroom tiles like ceramic and vinyl. I use it for cleaning both my kitchen and bathroom tiles.
However, there are surfaces that you shouldn’t clean with baking soda, such as marble and wood.
Also, consider that baking soda is mildly abrasive and can destroy soft surfaces and protective coatings. So use your best judgment.
In any case, it’s always best to check the tile’s manufacturer’s guide first.
How Often Should You Clean Your Tiles with Baking Soda?
The frequency of cleaning your tiles with baking soda depends on several factors, including the amount of foot traffic in the area, the type of tiles you have, and how often the tiles get dirty.
For areas with high traffic such as kitchen floors or bathroom walls, it is recommended to clean them at least once a week to prevent the buildup of grime and dirt.
However, if you have tiles in areas that are less frequently used, such as a guest bathroom or a spare bedroom, you may only need to clean them once a month or as needed.
Additionally, if you notice that your tiles are particularly dirty, it may be necessary to clean them more frequently. For example, if you spill something on the tiles or if you have pets that shed a lot, you may need to clean the tiles more often.
It’s also important to note that over-cleaning your tiles can lead to damage over time, especially if you are using abrasive cleaning products or harsh chemicals. Therefore, it’s essential to strike a balance between keeping your tiles clean and protecting them from damage.
6 Tips for maintaining clean tiles after using baking soda:
After cleaning your tiles with baking soda, it’s essential to maintain their cleanliness to prevent dirt and grime from building up again.
Here are some tips to help you maintain clean tiles after using baking soda:
- Wipe tiles regularly: To prevent dirt and grime from accumulating on your tiles, it’s important to wipe them regularly with a damp cloth. You can also use a mild cleaning solution made of water and vinegar to wipe the tiles clean.
- Use a doormat: Place a doormat at the entrance of your home to prevent dirt and debris from being tracked onto your tiles. This will help reduce the amount of dirt and grime that needs to be cleaned.
- Clean spills immediately: Accidents happen, and spills are inevitable. When spills occur, clean them up immediately to prevent them from staining your tiles or causing damage.
- Use a squeegee: If you have tiled walls or floors in your bathroom, using a squeegee after showering or bathing can help prevent soap scum and water spots from building up.
- Seal grout lines: Grout lines are notorious for attracting dirt and grime. Sealing your grout lines with a sealer can help prevent dirt and grime from penetrating the grout, making it easier to clean.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals: Harsh chemicals can damage your tiles and grout, so it’s important to avoid using them. Instead, opt for natural cleaning solutions like baking soda and vinegar.
Conclusion:
Now your tiles should be clean and odor-free.
Please share this article with your friends and family if you find it useful.
Thank you for reading.
-Baking Soda Guy
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions):
- Can I use baking soda and vinegar to clean all types of tiles? Baking soda and vinegar can be used to clean most types of bathroom and kitchen tiles, such as ceramic and vinyl tiles. However, avoid using this method on sensitive surfaces like marble and wood, as baking soda’s abrasiveness could damage them. Always check the tile’s manufacturer’s guide to ensure it’s safe to use baking soda on your specific type of tile.
- Can I use baking soda and vinegar to clean colored or patterned tiles? Using baking soda and vinegar on colored or patterned tiles should generally be safe, but it’s essential to test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure there are no adverse reactions or color fading. If you notice any negative effects, discontinue use immediately.
- Can I use this method to clean tiles with heavy stains or grime? Baking soda and vinegar can be effective for light to moderate stains and grime on tiles. However, for heavy stains or stubborn grime, you might need to use a stronger commercial cleaner or seek professional cleaning services.
- How often should I clean my tiles with baking soda and vinegar? The frequency of cleaning your tiles with baking soda and vinegar depends on factors like foot traffic, tile type, and how often the tiles get dirty. High-traffic areas like kitchen floors and bathroom walls may require weekly cleaning, while less-used areas may only need monthly cleaning. Adjust the frequency based on your specific tile usage and cleanliness needs.
- Can I use baking soda and vinegar on other surfaces besides tiles? Yes, baking soda and vinegar are versatile and can be used to clean and deodorize various surfaces, such as countertops, sinks, and even appliances. Just remember to test a small area first to ensure compatibility and avoid using it on delicate or sensitive surfaces.
- Can I combine baking soda with other cleaning agents for a more powerful effect? While baking soda can be combined with other natural cleaning agents like lemon juice or hydrogen peroxide, avoid mixing it with commercial cleaning products or harsh chemicals, as this can create potentially harmful fumes or reactions.
- Will using baking soda and vinegar damage the grout between my tiles? Baking soda and vinegar should not damage grout when used occasionally for cleaning. However, excessive use or harsh scrubbing with an abrasive sponge might wear down the grout over time. To protect your grout, consider sealing it regularly and avoiding excessive force during cleaning.
- Can I use baking soda and vinegar on outdoor tiles? Baking soda and vinegar can be used on outdoor tiles, but they may be less effective on tough outdoor stains and grime. For outdoor tiles, consider using a pressure washer or specialized outdoor cleaning products for more thorough cleaning.
Top Photo by Karolina Grabowska from Pexels
