Water & Vinegar for Ceramic Tile

The name 'ceramic tiles' covers a large territory of tiles used in the home, like terra cotta, porcelain and regular bathroom tiles. You can keep them clean with a homemade combination of water and vinegar.

Cleaning

You can use a mild solution of water and white vinegar to clean your ceramic tile. A mixture of one part water to one part vinegar will remove soap scum, rust and lime buildup. It can kill mold and will help restore shine to ceramic tiles, according to "Home Comforts," a guide to housekeeping.

Stain Removal

Vinegar and water can also clean the grout between ceramic tiles, especially if it has been stained by mildew or dulled by soap scum. Add 1/4 cup of white vinegar to 1 gallon of water and use the solution to wash the grout. For more intensive cleaning, scrub the grout with a soft-bristled toothbrush, according to "2,001 Amazing Cleaning Secrets."

Considerations

Acidic cleaners are not generally recommended for ceramic tile because the acid can etch the tile, creating unsightly scratches that can harbor mold. A mild mixture of water and vinegar should not harm modern ceramic tile. If you are not sure about using it, place a few drops of the solution in an inconspicuous area of tile and leave it overnight. If you do not see any damage in the morning, the solution is safe to use.

References

• "Home Comforts"; Cheryl Mendelson; 2005
• "2,001 Amazing Cleaning Secrets"; Jeff Bredenberg; 2004