I’m Tony, a flooring contractor with over 20 years of experience.

I’ve seen it all when it comes to tile – from the good, the bad, and the downright grimy.

And trust me, achieving sparkling clean tiles doesn’t always require breaking the bank with fancy commercial cleaners.

Sometimes, the best solutions are the simplest.

Today, I’m going to let you in on a little secret that’s been passed down through generations: a DIY tile cleaner with ammonia.

Yep, you heard right!

Ammonia, when used correctly, can be a real game-changer for your floors.

In this article, I’m going to share the four secrets to creating your own powerful tile cleaner with ammonia that not only saves you money but also ensures your tiles shine like new.

Whether you’re battling stubborn stains, greasy residues, or just dull tiles, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to tackle your tile cleaning tasks efficiently and effectively.

1. Understanding Ammonia and Its Cleaning Properties

Let’s start with the basics.

What exactly is ammonia, and why is it such a good cleaner?

A Brief History

Ammonia (NH3) has been used for cleaning purposes for centuries.

Ancient Egyptians used ammonium salts produced from decomposing organic materials. Its modern production was first industrialized during World War I by German chemist Fritz Haber.

The Science Behind the Shine

Ammonia is a powerful alkaline compound.

This means it has a high pH level, which allows it to effectively cut through grease, grime, and dirt.

Think of it like this: when you have oily buildup on your tiles, the ammonia molecules break down the fats and oils into smaller, more water-soluble particles.

This makes it easier to wipe away the mess, leaving your tiles looking fresh and clean.

According to a study by the EPA, ammonia-based cleaners are effective in removing a wide range of household soils. (Source: EPA website, search “ammonia cleaning”)

Safety First!

Now, here’s the important part: safety.

Ammonia can be irritating to your skin, eyes, and respiratory system.

Always wear gloves when handling ammonia.

Always ensure proper ventilation by opening windows and doors.
Never mix ammonia with bleach! This creates a toxic gas called chloramine, which can be extremely dangerous.

I’ve personally seen the aftermath of this mistake, and it’s not pretty. Trust me on this one.
Keep ammonia out of reach of children and pets.

2. The First Secret: The Perfect Ammonia Mixture

Alright, let’s get to the good stuff – the recipe for our DIY tile cleaner.

After years of experimenting, I’ve found that this mixture works wonders:

1/2 cup of clear ammonia

1 gallon of warm water
1/4 cup of white vinegar (optional, but adds extra cleaning power)
1 tablespoon of baking soda (optional, for extra scrubbing action)

Why These Ingredients?

Ammonia: The star of the show, cutting through grease and grime.
Water: Dilutes the ammonia and helps spread the solution evenly.
White Vinegar: Adds extra acidity to help dissolve mineral deposits and soap scum.

Baking Soda: A mild abrasive that helps loosen stubborn stains.

The combination of these ingredients creates a powerful cleaning solution that’s tough on dirt but gentle on your tiles (when used correctly, of course!).

Step-by-Step Mixing Instructions

Grab a Bucket: Choose a clean bucket that’s large enough to hold a gallon of water.

Add Water: Pour in the warm water. Make sure it’s not too hot, as this can cause the ammonia to evaporate too quickly.
Pour in Ammonia: Carefully measure and pour in the ammonia. Remember to wear gloves and work in a well-ventilated area.
Add Vinegar (Optional): If you’re using vinegar, add it now.

Add Baking Soda (Optional): If you’re using baking soda, add it last. It might fizz a bit, so add it slowly and stir gently.
Stir: Gently stir the mixture until all the ingredients are combined.

And that’s it! You’ve got your DIY tile cleaner.

3. The Second Secret: Application Techniques for Optimal Results

Now that you’ve got your cleaning solution, it’s time to put it to work.

But before you start sloshing it all over your floors, let’s talk about the best application techniques for different types of tile.

Tile Types and Considerations

Ceramic Tile: This is one of the most common and durable types of tile. It’s generally safe to use the ammonia cleaner on ceramic tile, but it’s always a good idea to test a small, inconspicuous area first.

Porcelain Tile: Similar to ceramic, porcelain tile is also very durable and can typically handle the ammonia cleaner. Again, test a small area first.
Natural Stone Tile (Marble, Granite, Slate): This is where things get a bit trickier. Ammonia can potentially damage or etch natural stone, especially marble. I strongly recommend avoiding using ammonia on natural stone tiles. If you absolutely must use it, dilute it significantly and test a very small, hidden area first. Consider using a cleaner specifically designed for natural stone instead.
Vinyl Tile (Luxury Vinyl Tile – LVT): LVT is generally durable and water resistant and can handle the ammonia cleaner well. Always follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions for your specific flooring.

Pro Tip: Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning your specific type of tile.

Recommended Tools

Mop: A good quality mop is essential for applying the cleaner evenly. I prefer a microfiber mop, as it’s gentle on the tiles and effective at picking up dirt and grime.
Scrub Brush: For stubborn stains or grout lines, a scrub brush can be your best friend. Choose a brush with stiff bristles but be careful not to scrub too hard, as this can damage the tiles.

Spray Bottle: A spray bottle can be helpful for targeting specific areas or stains.
Clean Rags: You’ll need clean rags for wiping up excess cleaner and drying the tiles.
Gloves: Protect your hands!

Application Tips

Sweep or Vacuum: Before you start cleaning, make sure to sweep or vacuum the floor to remove any loose dirt or debris.
Test a Small Area: As I mentioned before, always test the cleaner in a small, inconspicuous area first to make sure it doesn’t damage the tile.
Apply the Cleaner: Dip your mop into the cleaning solution and wring it out well. You don’t want the floor to be soaking wet. Apply the cleaner to the floor in sections, working your way across the room.

Scrub (If Needed): For stubborn stains or grout lines, use a scrub brush to gently scrub the area.
Wipe Away Excess Cleaner: Use clean rags to wipe away any excess cleaner.
Rinse (Optional): If you want to be extra cautious, you can rinse the floor with clean water after cleaning. Make sure to dry the floor thoroughly.

Dry the Floor: Allow the floor to air dry or use clean, dry rags to dry it.

Important Note: Avoid leaving the ammonia cleaner on the tiles for extended periods of time, as this can potentially damage the surface.

4. The Third Secret: Tackling Stubborn Stains and Grime

Okay, so you’ve got the basics down.

But what about those really stubborn stains that just won’t budge?

Let’s talk about some common tile stains and how to tackle them with our ammonia cleaner.

Common Tile Stains

Mildew: This is a common problem in bathrooms and other damp areas. Mildew appears as black or greenish spots on the tile and grout lines.

Soap Scum: Soap scum is a white, chalky residue that builds up on tiles in showers and bathtubs.
Food Spills: Food spills, especially greasy ones, can leave unsightly stains on kitchen tiles.
Hard Water Stains: Hard water stains are mineral deposits that appear as white or yellowish spots on tiles and fixtures.

Rust Stains: Rust stains can occur if you have metal objects resting on your tiles.

Specific Strategies for Stain Removal

Mildew: For mildew, mix equal parts of ammonia and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the affected area and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. Scrub with a brush and rinse thoroughly. For particularly stubborn mildew, you can add a small amount of bleach to the solution, but remember to NEVER mix ammonia and bleach directly! Rinse very well, and ensure proper ventilation.
Soap Scum: For soap scum, the vinegar in our cleaning solution should help dissolve the buildup. Apply the cleaner and let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub with a brush. You may need to repeat the process for particularly stubborn soap scum.

Food Spills: For greasy food spills, apply the ammonia cleaner directly to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes. Scrub with a brush and rinse thoroughly. You can also try adding a small amount of dish soap to the cleaning solution for extra grease-cutting power.
Hard Water Stains: For hard water stains, the vinegar in our cleaning solution should also help dissolve the mineral deposits. Apply the cleaner and let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub with a brush. For very stubborn hard water stains, you can try using a commercial hard water stain remover.
Rust Stains: For rust stains, try making a paste of baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stain and let it sit for several hours or overnight. Scrub with a brush and rinse thoroughly. If the rust stain is still visible, you can try using a commercial rust remover.

Adjusting the Solution for Tough Stains

If you’re dealing with particularly tough stains, you can try adjusting the cleaning solution to make it more potent.

Increase the Ammonia Concentration: You can try increasing the amount of ammonia in the solution, but be careful not to overdo it. Start by adding a small amount of ammonia and test the solution in a small area.
Add More Vinegar: Vinegar is a great natural cleaner and can help dissolve mineral deposits and soap scum. Try adding a bit more vinegar to the solution for extra cleaning power.

Use a Poultice: For very stubborn stains, you can try using a poultice. A poultice is a paste that’s applied to the stain and allowed to sit for several hours or overnight. You can make a poultice by mixing baking soda with water or vinegar.

5. The Fourth Secret: Maintaining Your Tiles After Cleaning

Okay, you’ve got your tiles sparkling clean.

Now, how do you keep them that way?

Here are some tips for preventing future buildup of dirt and grime on your tiles:

Prevention is Key

Wipe Up Spills Immediately: The sooner you wipe up a spill, the less likely it is to stain your tiles.
Use Doormats: Place doormats at entrances to trap dirt and debris before they get tracked onto your tiles.

Sweep or Vacuum Regularly: Sweep or vacuum your tiles regularly to remove loose dirt and debris.
Ventilate Bathrooms: Make sure your bathrooms are well-ventilated to prevent mildew growth.
Use a Squeegee: After showering, use a squeegee to remove excess water from the tiles and shower walls.

Seal Grout Lines: Sealing your grout lines can help prevent stains and mildew growth. Apply a grout sealer every 1-2 years.

Regular Maintenance Routine

Weekly Cleaning: Clean your tiles weekly with our DIY ammonia cleaner to prevent buildup of dirt and grime.
Spot Cleaning: Spot clean any spills or stains as soon as they occur.

Deep Cleaning: Deep clean your tiles every few months to remove stubborn stains and grime.

Natural Products for Enhanced Cleaning

You can also combine our ammonia cleaner with other natural products for enhanced cleaning:

Lemon Juice: Lemon juice is a natural disinfectant and can help brighten tiles. Add a few tablespoons of lemon juice to the cleaning solution.

Essential Oils: Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to the cleaning solution for a pleasant scent. Lavender, tea tree, and eucalyptus oils also have antibacterial properties.
Borax: Borax is a natural mineral that can help boost the cleaning power of the solution. Add a tablespoon of borax to the cleaning solution.

Conclusion

So there you have it – the four secrets to sparkling clean tiles with a simple DIY ammonia cleaner.

By understanding the power of ammonia, mixing the perfect solution, applying it correctly, and maintaining your tiles regularly, you can achieve professional-level results without breaking the bank.

I encourage you to give this simple solution a try and enjoy the satisfaction of sparkling, clean tiles without the need for harsh commercial products.

Remember to always prioritize safety when working with ammonia, and enjoy your beautiful, clean floors!

Happy cleaning!

DIY Tile Cleaner With Ammonia? (4 Secrets)