Ceramic tile is known for its durability, beauty, and ease of maintenance. But even this resilient surface can fall victim to stubborn stains from hard water, rust, soap scum, grease, or spills. Whether it’s in your kitchen, bathroom, or entryway, removing these stains doesn’t have to be a challenge, if you know the right techniques. Today, we at Silver State Floor Restoration would like to share a step-by-step guide on how to safely and effectively remove stubborn stains from ceramic tile and restore its shine.
1) Identify the Type of Stain
Before you jump into cleaning, it’s important to know what you’re dealing with. Common types of ceramic tile stains include:
– Grease or food stains (kitchen)
– Soap scum or hard water spots (bathroom)
– Rust stains (from metal furniture or tools)
– Mold and mildew (grout or damp areas)
Each type of stain may require a different approach.
2) Use Baking Soda and Vinegar for General Stains
For most stains, a simple DIY solution works wonders:
– Mix baking soda and water to form a paste.
– Apply the paste to the stained area.
– Spray white vinegar over the paste to create a foaming reaction.
– Let it sit for 5–10 minutes.
– Scrub gently with a soft brush or non-abrasive sponge.
– Rinse with warm water and dry with a clean towel.
This combo works especially well for soap scum, mild discoloration, and sticky grime.
3) Try Hydrogen Peroxide for Tougher Stains
If baking soda and vinegar don’t cut it, hydrogen peroxide might. It’s excellent for organic stains like food or mildew:
– Pour a small amount of hydrogen peroxide directly onto the stain.
– Let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
– Scrub with a soft-bristle brush.
– Rinse thoroughly and repeat if needed.
For extra power, mix hydrogen peroxide with baking soda to form a paste.
4) Use a Commercial Tile Cleaner for Grease or Rust
For grease stains or rust marks, especially in kitchens or laundry areas, use a commercial tile cleaner that’s safe for ceramic surfaces. Look for a pH-neutral product labeled for use on tile and grout. Follow the instructions carefully and test on a small, hidden area first. For rust, products containing oxalic acid can be very effective, but be cautious and wear gloves.
5) Clean the Grout, Too
Often, stains seem to be on the tile, but they’re really in the grout. Use a specialized grout cleaner or a paste made from baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Apply with an old toothbrush and rinse well.
6) Prevent Future Stains
After cleaning, keep your tile looking great with these tips:
– Wipe down tile surfaces regularly.
– Use a squeegee in the shower to prevent water spots.
– Clean spills as soon as they happen.
– Seal grout lines every 6–12 months.
Natural Stone & Tile & Grout Cleaning, Sealing, Polishing & More in Aliante, Centennial, Desert Shores, Eldorado, Enterprise, Green Valley Ranch, Henderson, Lone Mountain Village, North LV, Peccole Ranch, Paradise, Silverado Ranch, Spring Valley, Summerlin, Sunrise Manor, Tuscany Village, Whitney, Winchester & Las Vegas Nevada
Stubborn stains on ceramic tile are annoying but not impossible to beat. With the right approach, and a little elbow grease, you can restore your tile to its original beauty. And if the stains just won’t budge, consider calling in a professional tile cleaning service to handle the deep cleaning for you. Call Silver State Floor Restoration for tile and grout cleaning and maintenance services.