How To Clean Ceramic Tile

By  Jessica Kielman
A minimalist all white tiled bathroom with a round black framed mirror Stephen Paul for Hunker

Ceramic tile is a great option for kitchen and bathroom floors, countertops, and backsplashes. While ceramic tile is sturdy and easy to clean, the grout in between the tiles can get dirty and stained easily. This tutorial will show you how to clean ceramic tiles — and how to get your grout clean, too.

How to Clean Ceramic Tile Countertops and Backsplashes

White subway tile backsplash in kitchen Stephen Paul for Hunker

Things Needed

  • 1 1/2 cups of hot water

  • 1/4 cup of distilled white vinegar

  • Dish liquid

  • Spray bottle

  • Damp sponge or cloth

  • Microfiber cloth

Step 1

Begin by making the cleaning solution. Add 1 1/2 cups hot water, 1/4 cup of distilled white vinegar, and three drops of dish liquid to a clean spray bottle and shake well.

Step 2

Spray the ceramic tile generously with the cleaning solution, and allow it to sit for a few minutes.

TIP: For backsplashes, you can work in small sections and place a towel on your countertop to catch any drips from the cleaning solution.

Step 3

Wipe down with a damp cloth or sponge.

Step 4

Wipe dry with a microfiber cleaning cloth.

How to Clean Ceramic Tile Floors

Bathroom floor with blue tile and plant on a basket Stephen Paul for Hunker

Things Needed

  • Hot water

  • 1/2 cup of distilled white vinegar

  • 1 teaspoon of dish liquid

  • Clean cloth

Step 1

Before mopping, you want to make sure that any debris, dirt, or sand is removed from the floor. Either vacuum or sweep your floors before getting started.

Step 2

Make the mopping solution. Fill a large bucket with hot water, and then add 1/2 cup of distilled white vinegar and one teaspoon of dish liquid.

Step 3

Place the mop head in the soapy mixture and allow it to soak in, and then wring out the mop head so it is wet, but not dripping.

Step 4

Mop the floor.

Step 5

Rinse your mop head out after cleaning, then wring it out. Mop the floor with water only.

Step 6

You can allow the floor to air dry or use a clean towel to remove any water left behind.

How to Clean Ceramic Tile Grout

White hexagon tile in shower Sanford Creative

Cleaning your grout takes a bit more elbow grease, but it doesn't have to be done as often as cleaning your ceramic tiles. Over time your grout can start to stain or change colors and will need a deeper cleaning. All it takes to clean your grout is a few household ingredients and a little scrubbing.

Things Needed

  • 1/2 cup of baking soda

  • 1/4 cup of hydrogen peroxide

  • 1 teaspoon of dish soap

  • Toothbrush or scrub brush

  • Towel

Step 1

Make the grout cleaning solution. Add the baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and dish soap to a bowl and mix together well. This mixture will help to scrub away any debris that may be stuck, as well as brighten and clean the grout.

Step 2

Spoon cleaning solution onto grout lines.

Step 3

Allow to sit for 10 minutes.

Step 4

Scrub with a toothbrush or scrub brush.

Step 5

Wet a towel and wring it out, then use it to wipe the cleaning solution and debris away.

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