Cleaning Ceramic Tile Walls

Regular cleaning can be done with detergent and water and rinsed; or commercial household cleaners or bathroom cleaners used according to label directions. Do not use souring powders or other abrasives that can scratch the finish. Special cleaning may be needed for ceramic tile in bathrooms if there is a buildup of soap scum or mildew.

Remove soap scum by sponging with a mixture of 1/2 cup packaged water softener, plus 2 tablespoons rottenstone plus 1 cup hot water; or use a solution of 1 - 2 tablespoons tri sodium phosphate in 1 gallon hot water. Rinse thoroughly.

Remove mildew by cleaning with a diluted solution of chlorine bleach in water, following the label directions on bleach bottle. You could also use a mildew-retardant household spray. After applying, rinse thoroughly.

The rough white coating is a buildup of mineral from hard water. Dissolve it with a commercial tile leaner and wipe off.

Occasionally, a dark varnish-like stain may build up in a tile shower that has not been cleaned regularly. It is a build-up of body oils and soap sum and very hard to remove.

Cover the sot with a full-strength liquid laundry detergent and let stand for a couple of hours. Then sponge with water. If it still doesn't all come off, leave the detergent on longer and scrub with a brush. Don't use on porcelain enamel tubs or fiberglass or plastic surfaces as it may damage them.