Cleaning tile may generally be a task that can be daunting in the kitchen, especially when one has to grapple with insolent stains and dirt that refuse to be moved away from their place. There are so many commercial cleaning products, which, in most cases, are made with harsh chemicals that pose threats both to the environment and human health. However, this combination is very effective and natural for guaranteeing clean, sparkling tiles. It is safe, non-toxic, and very effective. In this article, we will look through how to clean tiles using vinegar and baking soda.
Why Vinegar and Baking Soda?
Before delving into cleaning, it is necessary to find out why vinegar and baking soda make the perfect cleaning duo. Vinegar is a mild acid that can dissolve mineral deposits, grease, and grime, making it a good cleaner for most surfaces. It also has natural disinfectant properties that help kill bacteria and eliminate odors. Baking soda is a mild abrasive that helps in scrubbing dirt and stains from your tiles without scratching them. It also absorbs odors, hence leaving your surfaces fresh and clean.
In comparison, while commercial cleaning products are highly accessible and often promise quick, satisfactory results, they have several major downsides. A great number of such products contain harsh chemicals dangerous for both the environment and human health. For example, although bleach can do the work, it is also known to cause skin irritation, and other health issues, if exposed for a long time. Besides, these chemicals cause indoor air pollution and adversely affect water sources when washed down the drain. Commercial cleaners are usually packaged in non-recyclable plastic bottles, which contributes to plastic waste and environmental degradation. Furthermore, they may seem expensive over time since they add unnecessary costs to the household budget. Natural cleaning alternatives, such as vinegar and baking soda, are safer, more environmentally friendly and of course cheaper.
What you will need for cleaing tile
To proceed with cleaning your tiles using vinegar and baking soda, you would need the following materials: white vinegar, baking soda, water, a spray bottle, a scrub brush or sponge, a bucket, a mop or cloth, and optional essential oils for a great scent.s
Prepare your vinegar solution by mixing in equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. This will be your main cleaning solution. If you want a pleasant scent, add some drops of your favorite essential oil, like lavender or lemon. Spray your vinegar solution onto the tile floor with a good amount, covering all areas, especially the grout lines where dirt and grime usually pile up. Let it sit for about five to ten minutes. This way, the vinegar will have time to break down the dirt, grease, or mineral deposits on the surface.
When the vinegar solution has had time to work its magic, it’s time to bring in the baking soda. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda directly onto the tiles. Using a scrub brush or sponge, scrub the tiles in a circular motion. The baking soda is rough, which will lift and help take away the loosened dirt and grime. Be especially keen on the grout lines because these can be a challenge. Once you have scrubbed the tiles well, it’s time to rinse away the vinegar and baking soda. Fill a bucket with clean water and use a mop or cloth to do the surface. Ensure you take all the baking soda residue off so that no white film forms on the tiles.
Afterward, dry the tiles using a clean, dry cloth or mop to avoid water spots and provide a streak-free finish. For a shine, one can gently buff the surface using a microfiber cloth. With such steps, your tiles would look perfect, and therefore, in your regular chores, make it important to clean your tiles. The general wiping of the tiles with the vinegar solution once a week will ensure dirt and grime do not build up. When spills occur, clean them up as soon as possible to ensure they don’t leave stains and cause less scrubbing later. Place doormats at entrances to reduce the amount of dirt and debris tracked onto your tiles and stick with natural cleaning solutions, such as vinegar and baking soda, for the sake of protecting your tiles and keeping yourself away from poisonous chemicals.
Conclusion
The combination of vinegar with baking soda for cleaning tiles is a fast, easy, and environmentally friendly way to keep your surfaces clean and looking good. This article will guide you through this process step by step so that you can achieve results like a pro without using strong chemicals. This natural cleaning technique with vinegar and baking soda is a reliable solution for most of your tile cleaning needs, whether it be in kitchens, bathrooms, or floors.