How to Clean Tile: Tackle Soap Scum, Water Stains, and Rust Safely

Tile offers long-lasting beauty, but like any surface, it needs regular care. If you’re noticing dullness, buildup, or discoloration, the cause may be soap scum, hard water, or rust. Here’s how to clean tile effectively—without damaging your surface.

1. Soap Scum Removal

Soap scum is caused by a combination of hard water minerals and fatty acids from soaps. It often appears as a cloudy, filmy layer.

• Use a pH-neutral cleaner or a mild acidic solution such as a 1:1 vinegar-water mix.
• Spray, let sit for 5–10 minutes, then wipe with a non-abrasive sponge.
• Rinse with clean water and dry with a soft towel.
  

Avoid Abrasive scrubbers and alkaline cleaners, as they can degrade grout or glaze.

2. Treating Water Stains

Hard water leaves behind mineral deposits—often seen as spots or hazy films.

Use the same vinegar solution for ceramic and porcelain tile.

For natural stone, use only stone-safe cleaners specifically labeled for calcite-based surfaces, such as marble and travertine.

Pro Tip: A microfiber cloth is better than paper towels for streak-free drying.

3. Removing Rust Stains

Rust may appear near metal fixtures or cans left in wet areas.

• Apply a paste of baking soda and water or a commercial tile-safe rust remover.
• Let it sit for up to 30 minutes.
• Scrub gently with a nylon brush and rinse thoroughly.
  

Avoid mixing cleaners. Combining acidic and bleach-based products can release toxic fumes.

Ongoing Maintenance Tips

• Use a daily squeegee to prevent buildup in showers.
• Dry tile surfaces after use to avoid hard water spots.
• Seal grout lines if applicable (typically once a year).
  

Disclaimer:

Always test any cleaning product or homemade solution on a small, hidden area before applying it to the entire surface. These recommendations are general and may not apply to all tile materials. Consult your tile manufacturer’s care guide or contact a professional.

Sources:

The Tile Council of North America (TCNA) – www.tcnatile.com

Natural Stone Institute – Care & Cleaning Guidelines

US EPA Safer Choice Guidance – Recommendations for safe household cleaners

Family Handyman & Bob Vila Tile Cleaning Guides