With this solution, the tiles stay shiny and clean for months
Keeping your home tiles clean and sparkling can seem like a daunting task, especially when the passage of time and the accumulation of dirt takes away from their shine. Fortunately, there are homemade, economical and very effective solutions that allow you to preserve the impeccable appearance of your floors and walls without the need for expensive products or harsh chemicals.
In this article we share a simple recipe, with ingredients that you probably already have at home, so that your tiles stay shiny and like new for months.
Ingredients
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1/2 cup baking soda
- 1 teaspoon liquid dish soap (preferably neutral)
- 4 liters of warm water
How to prepare and apply
- Fill a bucket with the 4 liters of warm water.
- Dissolve the baking soda (1/2 cup), stirring well.
- Add the cup of white vinegar; The mixture will bubble slightly.
- Add the teaspoon of liquid soap and stir gently.
- Using a well-wrung mop or similar item, apply the solution to the tiles.
- Leave on for 5–10 minutes.
- Gently rub with a microfiber mop or soft cloth to remove debris.
- Rinse with a clean rag soaked in warm water only.
- Let air dry or dry with a clean cloth to avoid marks.
Why does it work?
- The vinegar degreases and adds natural shine.
- Baking soda acts as a mild abrasive that removes dirt.
- The soap enhances the action on the grease without leaving visible residues.
Additional tips to maintain shine for longer:
1. Weekly preventive cleaning
Even when the tiles look clean, wipe with a damp mop (just water and a few drops of soap) every week to avoid dust buildup or debris that dulls the shine.
2. Immediate drying after scrubbing
Standing water or drops that dry without stirring can leave limescale or blackening marks. Always dry surfaces after cleaning.
3. Proper ventilation
It allows air circulation in the environment and prevents excessive humidity, to prevent mold in joints or cracks of the tiles.
4. Quarterly reinforcement with natural wax
Every three to four months, a light layer of floor-specific liquid wax (it can be diluted carnauba wax) amplifies the shine and makes subsequent cleanups easier.
5. Protect high-traffic areas
Place doormats in doorways or use pads under furniture to minimize friction wear or scratches that dull the surface.
6. Avoid aggressive products
Don’t use cleaners with bleach, strong ammonia, or harsh abrasives that can damage enamel or joints over time.
This formula retains its natural effectiveness without harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances. Thanks to the balance between vinegar, baking soda and mild soap, it is possible to remove dirt and promote long-lasting shine.
Applied correctly and with proper maintenance, this solution can keep your tiles sparkling for months!