Knowing how to clean shower tiles and grout will help keep your bathroom pristine and germ-free. Due to our showers being a constantly moist environment, they can easily harbor bacteria, mold, and algae. All of these growths can grow on your shower’s tile and grout giving it an unsightly appearance.
Knowing the best methods on how to clean shower tiles and grout will help you maintain the beauty and safety of your bathroom. We have created this shower tile and grout guide to follow when you need to take a deep clean to your bathroom.
Materials Needed
Here are the items you’ll need to clean your shower tiles and grout:
- sponge
- scrub brush or toothbrush
- rubber gloves
- spray bottle
- small bowl
- vinegar
- baking soda
- hydrogen peroxide (optional)
Know How to Clean Shower Tiles and Grout
You should start with cleaning your shower tiles before the grout. Your grout is more likely stained and will require more work than the tiles. To clean your shower tiles, follow the steps we have outlined below:
1. Pre-Treatment: Start your shower tile cleaning process by running the water as hot as you can get it. The steam and temperature will help loosen up any caked-on scum. Run the shower for about 5 to 10 minutes for effective treatment.
2. Cleaning Solution: While your shower is running, you have time to mix up your own cleaning solution. While you can use a store-bought solution, you can save a few bucks by using common household items and solutions. The best homemade solution for your tiles is a 1:1 ratio of water and vinegar. Fill your spray bottle with the solution after it is well mixed.
For a stronger solution, use 3/4 baking soda with 1/4 water. This will form a pasty substance that you can apply using your brush. An even stronger solution will include the addition of hydrogen peroxide. If you are using this solution, try 2/3 baking soda and 1/3 hydrogen peroxide to form a paste.
3. Apply & Wait: Shut off the shower and start applying your solution onto the surface. Be sure to use extra in areas where scum and grime have accumulated. Once applied, let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes. If your tile is extremely dirty or covered in grime, add more solution and let it sit for longer.
4. Scrub: Now it’s time to use your sponge to scrub the tiles. If you are having a hard time removing the grime, then try the hard bristle scrub brush. For your grout, use the toothbrush with the mixture applied. If your toothbrush is not strong enough, then do your best to use the scrub brush.
5. Rinse: Finally, rinse off the solution and loose grime with warm water.
Preventing Grime From Accumulating
One of the best methods of preventing the buildup of grime and scum is to have the vinegar solution handy at all times. After showering, apply the vinegar solution to the shower surface two or three times a week. Be sure to label it appropriately and keep it out of children’s reach.
An alternative option is to purchase a squeegee to remove excess moisture from the walls of the shower. You may use a towel as well, but you may want to dedicate them only to be used for that task. Whichever you choose, removing excess water from the shower will help keep grime from retaking root.
How Often Should I Clean My Shower Tiles and Grout?
NBC News interviewed Jason Tetro, a microbiologist, about how often you should clean your bathroom. Tetro said you should clean your bathtub and shower at least twice a week. For those who bathe more often, weekly should be the standard.
With that said, give your bathroom a good cleaning every week or two weeks. This will help stop the spread of bacteria and limit their growth. If you believe your bathroom is extremely outdated and needs an update, contact BetterBuilt Builders. We can provide a free estimate for your bathroom remodeling project. Give us a call at (408) 752-1069 or visit our bathroom remodeling page for more details.