Today, homes are using glass tiles everywhere. This cost-effective design element is popular for backsplashes in the kitchen to the shower surrounds in the master bath and places that you may not have thought about. With the variety of colors, shapes, and sizes, where you once would have found porous ceramic, the non-porous glass tile has taken over.
They are durable and resist anything that a bathroom or kitchen has to give. Including bacteria, mildew, mold, and stain – glass tiles resist it all! What makes them even more popular is the easy cleaning and easy maintenance they offer too.
The one downside is the fingerprints, footprints, and water spots that clear glass backsplash tiles seem to feature. While this means that more maintenance is needed, it actually requires frequent and easy maintenance, and when they look sparkling clean, you remember why you went with glass tile. To help you get started with how and when to clean your new glass backsplash tiles, we offer the following tips:
Easy to Clean
You only want to use non-abrasive cleaning products on your glass tiles that do not scratch the beautiful, shiny surface. The easiest way to clean that beautiful kitchen backsplash tile or the glass mosaic tile in the bath is with a spray bottle filled with an equal part of water and vinegar. The cleaning of glass tiles is just like primary household products that are environmentally friendly and takes less than 15 minutes, including the 10 minute wait time. In the bathroom, it may take a little more elbow grease and time with soap scum or stains, especially if you have hard water. Using a soft cloth, rub the glass tiles, then use cold water to rinse them off and wipe dry.
Scrub the Stains
The calcium and magnesium in hard water can create problem marks and stains on the glass tile in the bathroom, but don’t despair! Simply pour vinegar over the trouble areas and sprinkle baking soda; allow it to sit and bubble for a minute or two, then rinse and dry. Toothpaste is a bit more abrasive, but it works in a jam if you’re in a hurry.
Wash the Backsplash
Clean the glass backsplash tile in the kitchen in the same way as the bathroom glass mosaic tiles using one-half teaspoon dish liquid in a spray bottle filled with warm water. Spray the mixture over the backsplash and then wipe with a clean, damp sponge. Wipe that off with a clean, damp cloth and then dry.
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Tackle That Grout Now!
Grout is porous, meaning it stains easily, and it can be a hassle to keep it clean. With a routine of cleaning, though, you can keep it looking good. Use a mixture that is half vinegar and half warm water to keep it clean daily. Spray it on and let it sit for five minutes, then using a toothbrush, scrub the grout lines. Rinse with clear water and then dry.
Got a tough stain on the grout lines? For more substantial cleaning power, sprinkle baking soda on the grout lines, then spray your mixture of vinegar and water. Let it sit that same 5 minutes, and using the toothbrush, scrub over those grout lines.
When mildew makes it way to your grout, that can be killed and removed with one-fourth cup bleach and three-fourth water in a spray bottle. Spray over the mildewed area and let it sit for a minute or two, then scrubs with a toothbrush, rinse with clear water, and dry.
With glass tile, invest the time to safeguard it with these cleaning tips, and you’ll have a beautiful bathroom, kitchen, or anywhere you use it for years to come. For any specialized help and installation, feel free to contact Westside Tile and Stone or call us now at 818-704-9222 (Canoga Park) and 310-276-9222 (Beverly Hills), your one-stop solution for all glass tile related problems.