How to Clean Bathroom Tiles

Keeping your bathroom tiles looking fresh doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right approach, you can handle everything from a quick wipe-down to removing built-up grime without too much effort.

A simple routine also means you’ll spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying a bathroom that feels clean and inviting.

We’re going to walk you through the best ways to clean your tiles, step by step, and share simple tips to help prevent mould and soap scum so your bathroom stays fresher for longer.

Bathroom tile cleaning checklist

You can clean bathroom tiles using a natural cleaning solution or a specialised heavy-duty cleaner. Both will do the job for everyday cleaning, but specialised cleaners are best for stubborn stains.

Whichever one you choose, here’s a checklist of everything you’ll need:

Natural cleaner

What you’ll need:

• Baking soda (mix with water to create a paste)
• Vinegar
• Gentle scrubbing brush
• Microfibre cloth

The vinegar solution works well on light dirt or marks. It also removes hard water stains and calcium buildup from tapware and glass shower screens.

Just avoid using vinegar on natural stone tiles as its acidity may damage the tiles.

Specialised cleaner

What you’ll need:

• For daily/light cleaning: Aqua Mix Concentrated Stone and Tile Cleaner
• For deep cleaning: Aqua Mix Heavy Duty Tile and Grout Cleaner
• Gentle scrubbing brush
• Microfibre cloth

This method is best for stubborn grime, soap scum and tough grout stains. It’s also suitable for porcelain, ceramic and most stone tiles, but always check product labels.

If you also have outdoor tiles and need some pointers on keeping them clean, read our outdoor tile cleaning guide.

How to clean bathroom tiles

From walls to floors, cleaning your bathroom tiles regularly keeps them looking fresh and prevents stubborn build-up. Here’s how to do it properly, without harming your surfaces.

Wall tiles

Get rid of splashes, steam and soap residue by following these simple steps:

1. Spray your chosen cleaner onto the tiles.
2. Cover hard stains with baking soda paste to help break them down before scrubbing.
3. Let it sit for a few minutes to break down grime.
4. Use a soft scrubbing brush or sponge to clean the surface. A toothbrush is perfect for grout lines or tight corners.
5. Wipe clean with a damp microfibre cloth and dry thoroughly.

Floor tiles

Bathroom floor tiles and shower tiles follow a similar method:

1. Sweep or vacuum the space first to remove dust and hair (skip this step for shower floor tiles).
2. Apply your tile-safe cleaner and let it sit for a few minutes.
3. Scrub with a gentle brush, focusing on grout lines, mould spots or soap scum.
4. Rinse with clean water and dry with a towel or mop.

Quick tips

• Don’t use harsh or acidic cleaners (like vinegar) on natural stone.
• Use non-slip footwear or clean in sections to avoid slipping on wet tiles when cleaning your floors.

Bathroom tiles cleaning tips

We know life gets busy, but there are ways to stay on top of your tile upkeep even when you’re short on time. Here are our top tips for keeping grime at bay for quick and easy cleaning.

Clean mess as it appears

The longer stains sit, the harder they are to get rid of. Wipe off any marks as they appear to avoid extra scrubbing later on.

Air it out

Prevent mould from forming on your tiles by properly ventilating your bathroom. Keep it airy by using exhaust fans and open up any windows when the bathroom is steamy.

Use a towel or squeegee

After you shower, run an old towel or a squeegee over the bathroom tiles. This reduces moisture in the room and prevents mould. Using a squeegee on your shower screen and mirror will also prevent streaking.

Have a cleaning schedule

Plan and schedule time to clean your bathroom tiles. Being organised will ensure you always have clean bathroom tiles with little fuss.

Keep your bathroom clean so you’ll enjoy spending time in the space.

Reseal your tiles

Sealing grout lines once a year is a good rule of thumb, especially in wet zones like showers and floors. This adds an extra layer of protection, so your tiles will last and look good for longer.

How often should you clean bathroom tiles?

A few simple habits go a long way in keeping your bathroom tiles looking their best. With a regular routine, you can stay ahead of stains, soap scum and grime with little effort.

Daily

• After you shower, use a squeegee to wipe down your shower tiles and glass to prevent water spots and soap residue.
• Open a window or run the exhaust fan to ventilate the space and prevent mould.

Weekly

• Spray and wipe down your wall tiles and vanity splashback with a gentle cleaner.
• Focus on areas where grime is starting to build up, like around taps or in shower corners.

Monthly

• Scrub your floor tiles and grout lines using a heavy-duty cleaner, especially in high-traffic or high-moisture areas.
• Check your grout and sealant for signs of mould or cracks, and reapply grout sealer if needed.

Shop high-quality bathroom tiles at TileCloud

Cleaning your bathroom tiles is easy if you take the right steps. However, for a fuss-free space, it’s important to start with low-maintenance tiles that are built to last.

Shop our range of Australian-made tiles or visit us in-store to speak with one of our experts about creating your dream bathroom.

FAQs

Can you clean bathroom tiles with bleach​?

You can use bleach on tiles, but be cautious. While bleach is great for getting rid of mould and disinfecting, it can also break down grout or cause discolouration over time. Always dilute it, use it in well-ventilated areas and avoid using it on natural stone tiles.

Is vinegar good for cleaning bathroom tiles​?

Vinegar works well on ceramic and porcelain tiles for everyday cleaning. However, skip it if you have natural stone tiles, as its acidity can damage and dull the surface. When in doubt, opt for a pH-neutral cleaner.

Can you steam clean bathroom tiles​?

Steam cleaning is a great chemical-free option for deep cleaning tiles and grout. It helps loosen dirt, soap scum and bacteria. Make sure your grout and tiles are properly sealed before steam cleaning. Otherwise, steam can get into the unsealed areas and cause damage or mould.