How to Clean Porcelain Shower Tile

Do you want to avoid scrubbing your porcelain shower tile without seeing the desired results? Cleaning porcelain shower tiles may seem daunting, but with the proper techniques and products, you can quickly achieve sparkling clean tiles.

Keeping porcelain shower tiles clean is essential for maintaining their glossy appearance and prolonging their life. Porcelain, known for its durability and stain resistance, still requires regular maintenance to prevent soap scum, hard water stains, and mildew buildup. With the proper cleaning techniques and products, you can restore your tiles to their original shine without causing damage.

In this guide on how to clean porcelain shower tile, we will explore effective methods and tips for cleaning porcelain shower tiles, ensuring your bathroom remains a sparkling haven of cleanliness.

What Will You Need?

Before you start cleaning your porcelain shower tiles, gather the necessary supplies. Here are a few items that you may need:

• Baking soda
• White vinegar
• Mild dish soap
• Soft-bristled brush
• Microfiber cloth or sponge
• Spray bottle

Once you have all the supplies, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get to work!

10 Easy Steps on How to Clean Porcelain Shower Tile

Step 1. Pre-Rinse the Tiles:

Begin by thoroughly rinsing the entire surface of your shower tiles with warm water. This step helps to loosen and wash away any loose dirt, dust, or soap residue. By starting with a pre-rinse, you’re effectively reducing the amount of scrubbing needed later on, as the initial rinse can often dissolve and dislodge deposits that have not yet hardened onto the tile surface.

Covering the grout lines is essential, as they are prone to holding onto grime. You can use a detachable shower head or a large cup to ensure the water reaches all areas evenly. This simple action can make the subsequent cleaning steps more effective and less labor-intensive.

Step 2. Create a Cleaning Solution: 

Mix equal parts of white vinegar and warm water in a spray bottle. Vinegar is a natural cleanser that effectively cuts through soap scum and mineral deposits without harsh chemicals that could damage the porcelain. Alternatively, you can mix warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap for a less acidic solution.

Shake the bottle to ensure that the solution is well-mixed before application. This simple but powerful cleaning solution will help you easily tackle the grime, setting the stage for a spotless finish.

Step 3. Apply the Cleaning Solution: 

Generously spray the cleaning solution onto the tiled surfaces, paying particular attention to any areas with visible stains or soap scum. Allow the solution to sit for about 5 to 10 minutes to penetrate and break down the grime.

This waiting period ensures that the vinegar or dish soap has enough time to dissolve the build-up, making it easier to scrub away later. Be sure to cover the grout lines thoroughly, as they often harbor hidden dirt and bacteria. While you wait, ensure the bathroom is well-ventilated to allow any fumes from the vinegar to dissipate.

Step 4. Scrub the Tiles: 

Using the soft-bristled brush, gently scrub the tiles in a circular motion. Focus on areas with stubborn soap scum or mineral deposits, applying slightly more pressure if needed.

Be sure to address the grout lines, as these can hold onto dirt more than the tiles themselves. The gentle bristles of the brush will help lift away deposits without scratching the surface of the porcelain. You may want to apply a bit of baking soda to your brush for particularly stubborn spots, as its mild abrasiveness can enhance the cleaning action.

Step 5. Rinse the Tiles: 

After scrubbing, it’s crucial to rinse off all the cleaning solution, grime, and any loosened debris from the tiles. Use warm water, a detachable shower head, or a cup to thoroughly wash down the entire area. Remove all traces of the cleaning solution to prevent any residue from drying on the tiles and creating new spots or dullness.

Be attentive to the grout lines to ensure all residue is rinsed away. This step will leave your tiles refreshed and ready for the next part of the cleaning process.

Step 6. Dry the Tiles: 

Once rinsing is complete, take a microfiber cloth or a sponge and carefully dry the tiles to prevent water spots and streaks. Starting from the top and working your way down ensures that any filigree water drips won’t land on already-dried sections. This step not only enhances the shine of the porcelain but also aids in avoiding the development of water stains or mildew by reducing lingering moisture.

Paying close attention to the grout lines is essential, as moisture can often accumulate in these crevices, leading to mildew over time. Drying your tiles thoroughly contributes to a spotless, glossy finish that highlights the cleanliness of your shower.

Step 7. Address Stubborn Stains: 

For any remaining stubborn stains or soap scum that did not come off with regular scrubbing, create a paste using baking soda and a small amount of water. Apply this paste directly onto the stains and let it sit for approximately 10 to 15 minutes. The mild abrasive action of baking soda can help break down stubborn residues without scratching the porcelain surface.

Once the time is up, use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the area in circular motions until the stains are gone. After cleaning, thoroughly rinse the area with warm water to remove any remaining baking soda residue and ensure a spotless finish.

Step 8. Polish the Tiles: 

To achieve extra shine, you can apply a small amount of mild dish soap to a microfiber cloth and lightly buff the tile surfaces. Carefully polish the tiles with the fabric, moving it in circular motions to bring out the natural luster of the porcelain.

This step enhances the sheen and creates a protective barrier that helps repel water and dirt, keeping your shower looking cleaner for longer. Be sure to focus on even coverage without leaving streaks. Once polished, rinse the tiles with warm water to remove any soap residue, and dry them thoroughly with a clean cloth.

Step 9. Prevent Future Build-up: 

Consider a few routine practices to maintain the cleanliness of your tiles and reduce future grime build-up. After each shower, use a squeegee or a clean cloth to remove excess water from the tiles, which helps prevent water spots and soap scum from forming.

Regular bathroom ventilation by using an exhaust fan or opening a window can also help diminish moisture accumulation, ultimately deterring mold and mildew growth. Incorporating a quick weekly wipe-down using a mild cleaning solution can keep your shower looking pristine with minimal effort, providing long-term benefits and reducing the need for intensive scrubbing.

Step 10. Inspect and Maintain the Shower Accessories: 

While focusing on the tiles, it’s easy to overlook the shower accessories that also contribute to the overall cleanliness of the space. Regularly inspect items such as shower caddies, soap dishes, and faucets for soap scum or mineral build-up. Clean these accessories using an appropriate cleaner or a vinegar and water solution, similar to the tile cleaning solution.

Wipe them down and rinse thoroughly to prevent residue and build-up. Ensuring clean accessories not only enhances your shower’s aesthetic but also supports hygiene and functionality, making your shower space an enjoyable haven.

By following these steps and incorporating routine maintenance, you can keep your porcelain shower tiles looking spotless and shiny for years.

5 Things You Should Avoid

1. Using Abrasive Cleaners: Avoid harsh or abrasive cleaners, as they can scratch the porcelain surface and degrade its finish over time. Opt for gentle, non-abrasive cleaners designed explicitly for porcelain surfaces.
2. Employing Hard Bristle Brushes: Hard bristle brushes can cause scratches or wear down the glazed finish of the tiles. Instead, use a soft brush or sponge to clean the tiles effectively without damaging them.
3. Skipping Regular Maintenance: Ignoring routine cleaning can lead to the buildup of soap scum and mineral deposits, making stains harder to remove and potentially causing lasting damage to the tile’s surface.
4. Allowing Stains to Settle: Don’t leave stains unattended for long periods. Address any spills or stains promptly to prevent them from penetrating the tile and becoming permanent.
5. Using Acidic or Bleach-Based Products: Acidic cleaners or bleach can etch the tile surface and strip away the shine. Always look for pH-balanced cleaners that won’t harm the tiles while effectively clearing dirt and grime.

By following these steps, you can maintain the beautiful appearance of your porcelain tiles and ensure their longevity.

Conclusion

How to clean porcelain shower tile involves consistent care and smart cleaning choices.

By avoiding abrasive materials and opting for gentle, tile-friendly cleaners, you preserve the tiles’ aesthetic and structural integrity. Routine maintenance, including prompt attention to spills and stains, prevents grime buildup and prolongs the lifespan of your tiles.

Understanding the type of products to avoid, such as those with acidic components, ensures that the tiles’ finish remains undamaged and retains its shine.

With these careful cleaning practices, your porcelain shower tiles will continue to be a pristine and attractive feature in your bathroom.