How to Clean Bathroom Tiles Naturally

Germs are often at their most abundant in the bathroom, so effectively cleaning sinks, showers, toilets and floors is crucial to your family's health. Bathroom tiles, however, are susceptible to this dirt and grime as well. Learn how to clean bathroom tiles naturally while still assuring that the floor remains sanitary and looking like new.

CHOOSING A NATURAL CLEANER

You don't have to use harsh formulas to effectively clean bathroom tiles. And because most people don't use their exhaust fan enough, according to Good Housekeeping, the scents of these chemicals can become unhealthy as well. Choosing natural cleaners, baking soda, vinegar and even hot water are great options for getting rid of dirt, mildew and germs.

GETTING TO WORK

One of the best ways to learn how to clean bathroom tiles involves choosing a natural cleaning solution for each task at hand:

• When disinfecting, use vinegar, a natural disinfectant that works wonders on germ-laden floors. Combine about a cup of white vinegar with a gallon of water, and get to work. You can either mop or clean by hand.
• When scrubbing, get rid of hard-to-remove grime with a baking soda paste. Baking soda acts as a scouring solution and can get under deeply set dirt buildups. Mix about a cup of warm water with a few tablespoons of baking soda to make a paste, and then use a damp cloth to apply it to your tile.
• When all-around cleaning, use a natural product to clean the tile. The unique properties of a plant- or coconut-based disinfectant can reach thin crevices and attack dirt without taking the tile's integrity with it, leaving floors genuinely clear when you're done.

HEATING UP THE PROCESS

When it comes time to clean your bathroom tiles, give your cleaner an extra boost by heating up the room. One trick of the trade to getting rid of germs and dirt without using a ton of elbow grease is to use hot water. Apply your natural cleaning solution (vinegar, baking soda or Murphy® Oil Soap) and allow it to sit on the floor while you run the shower for a few minutes. Let the steam build up in the room, and keep the door closed. The humidity in the air essentially amplifies the cleaning power of the cleaner.

This article was brought to you by Colgate-Palmolive Company, the makers of Murphy® Oil Soap. The views and opinions expressed by the author do not reflect the position of the Colgate-Palmolive Company.