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Introduction:
Tiles can lose their sparkle over time, accumulating grime, soap scum, and stains—especially in kitchens and bathrooms. Fortunately, you don’t need expensive chemical cleaners to restore their shine. Baking soda, a common household ingredient, is an effective, eco-friendly, and affordable solution for cleaning and shining tiles. With its gentle abrasiveness and deodorizing properties, baking soda tackles stains and buildup without damaging the surface.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup baking soda
Warm water (as needed)
2 tablespoons white vinegar (optional for extra cleaning power)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional for scent and shine)
Scrub brush or sponge
Clean cloth or mop
Preparation:
Make the Paste:
In a small bowl, mix the baking soda with enough warm water to form a thick paste. For enhanced cleaning power, add vinegar and lemon juice. The vinegar reacts with the baking soda to lift grime, while lemon juice leaves behind a fresh scent and extra shine.
Apply to Tiles:
Spread the paste over the tiles using a sponge or scrub brush, focusing on stained or dull areas. For grout lines, use an old toothbrush to get into the narrow crevices.
Let It Sit:
Allow the mixture to sit on the surface for 5–10 minutes. This gives the baking soda time to break down stains and absorb odors.
Scrub Gently:
Using your brush or sponge, gently scrub the tiles in circular motions. This action lifts dirt without scratching the surface.
Rinse:
Wipe or mop the tiles with clean warm water to remove any residue. Follow up with a dry cloth to buff and reveal a polished finish.
Serving and Storage Tips:
This cleaning paste is best made fresh before use, as the ingredients (especially vinegar and lemon juice) lose potency over time.
For convenience, you can mix just baking soda and water in advance and store it in an airtight container. Add vinegar and lemon juice just before using.
After cleaning, store your tools (sponge, brush) clean and dry to prevent bacteria buildup.
Variation:
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