How to Maintain and Clean Your Bathroom Tiles

In short:

  • Clean bathroom tiles weekly with gentle solutions to maintain hygiene, prevent grime and preserve long-term surface quality.

  • Always use non-abrasive tools to avoid scratching tiles or damaging grout lines during cleaning routines.

  • Tackle stains and mould early using vinegar or baking soda for effective, natural tile cleaning methods.

  • Regularly seal grout to protect against moisture, mould and long-term discolouration or damage.

  • Smart habits like drying tiles and running exhaust fans reduce maintenance needs and extend tile life.

A Fresh Start for Your Bathroom Tiles

Cleaning bathroom tiles isn't just about aesthetics, it's about hygiene, safety, and maintaining your investment. Whether ceramic, porcelain or stone, bathroom tiles need proper care to stay spotless and last for years.

Why Regular Tile Cleaning Matters

Bathroom tiles endure daily exposure to moisture, soap scum, and grime. Without regular maintenance, they become breeding grounds for mould, bacteria and hard water deposits. Here's why you should clean them often:

  • Prevent slip hazards caused by grime and soap build-up

  • Retain the original colour and finish of the tiles

  • Extend the longevity of tiles and grout

  • Maintain a fresh-smelling and hygienic bathroom

  • Enhance the overall look and feel of your space

If you're looking to upgrade your bathroom surfaces, explore our full range of tile options to find styles that suit your home.

The Best Way to Clean Bathroom Floor Tiles

Cleaning tiles the right way keeps them looking new without causing damage. Here's a step-by-step method tailored to bathroom floors:

  1. Sweep or vacuum to remove dust and debris.

  1. Mix warm water with a few drops of a pH-neutral cleaner.

  1. Mop thoroughly, focusing on corners and grout lines.

  1. Spot-treat stains with baking soda paste or vinegar for natural cleaning.

  1. Dry with a microfibre cloth to avoid streaks and mildew.

Pro Tip: Avoid harsh chemicals and acidic cleaners, especially on natural stone, as they may erode the surface and cause dullness.

Cleaning Bathroom Tiles on Walls

Wall tiles may not face foot traffic, but they're prone to soap scum, water spots, and mildew. Keep them gleaming with this simple method:

  • Spray a mix of water and white vinegar onto the tile

  • Let it sit for 5-10 minutes

  • Scrub gently with a soft brush or sponge

  • Rinse with clean water and wipe dry

For particularly stubborn spots, use products designed for tile care from our tile accessory collection that won't damage delicate surfaces.

How to Keep Grout Clean and Bright

Grout lines often absorb moisture and dirt more easily than tiles. Here's how to maintain them:

  • Use a toothbrush dipped in baking soda and water to scrub the grout

  • Rinse with vinegar and allow it to bubble

  • Scrub again and rinse with warm water

  • Apply a grout sealer every 6 months to protect against staining

Clean grout can completely change the look of your space. If your current tiles are outdated or hard to maintain, consider browsing our selection of bathroom tiles for easy-to-clean and stylish options.

Smart Cleaning Habits to Adopt

Maintaining clean bathroom tiles doesn't have to be a major chore. Adopt these smart habits to keep things under control daily:

  • Wipe down walls and floors after each shower

  • Use a bathroom-specific squeegee to reduce water stains

  • Run an exhaust fan to minimise moisture build-up

  • Store cleaning products within reach for quick clean-ups

  • Schedule a deep clean at least once a fortnight

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with good intentions, tile cleaning can go wrong if done incorrectly. Avoid these common errors:

  • Using abrasive scrubbers that scratch glazed tiles

  • Ignoring mould until it becomes a health concern

  • Overusing bleach, which can discolour grout over time

  • Not rinsing cleaning agents thoroughly

  • Forgetting to dry tiles, inviting mould and mildew

While frequent cleaning is key, using the right tile accessories ensures your efforts pay off without damaging the materials.

Quick Refresh Tips for Busy Schedules

Don't have time for a full clean? Here are mini-routines to keep your bathroom tiles presentable between deep cleans:

  • Keep disinfectant wipes handy for daily spot cleaning

  • Use diluted vinegar spray to refresh tile scent and shine

  • Invest in a quality spray mop for fast floor touch-ups

  • Hang towels properly to reduce humidity

  • Light a bathroom-safe candle or diffuser to maintain a fresh ambience

For even quicker refreshes, you may want to explore tiles that are easier to clean and maintain from our curated tile selection.

Key Takeaway: How to Keep Tiles Looking Their Best

  • Clean tiles weekly with gentle solutions and non-abrasive tools to preserve shine.

  • Use vinegar or baking soda to tackle stubborn stains and grout discolouration naturally.

  • Dry all surfaces thoroughly after cleaning to prevent mould and mildew build-up.

  • Avoid harsh cleaners on stone tiles, use accessories designed specifically for tile care.

  • Adopt daily habits like wiping down tiles and using exhaust fans to reduce cleaning time.