Clean Outdoor Tiles are a great way to brighten up your garden, patio, or pool area. They add a touch of class and make your outdoor spaces feel extra welcoming.
But just like everything else exposed to the elements, outdoor tiles can quickly get dirty and start to look worn down. Dirt, moss, stains – you name it. If you’re wondering how to clean outdoor tiles effectively, you’re in the right place.
Cleaning your outdoor tiles doesn’t have to be a hassle. It’s easier than you think! Whether you’re dealing with everyday grime or stubborn stains, we’ve got you covered. Here are five tried-and-true ways to clean your outdoor tiles and keep them looking brand new.
At Commercial Cleaning Group, we know a thing or two about cleaning. Our team of professionals can help keep your home and outdoor spaces spotless. But if you’re ready to tackle the job yourself, these methods will do the trick.
1. Clean Outdoor Tiles With Pressure Washing
When it comes to outdoor cleaning, a pressure washer is like the superhero of your cleaning toolkit. If your outdoor tiles have seen better days covered in grime, dirt, or even algae, this method is fast and powerful.
Why It Works:
- Pressure washing blasts away dirt and grime in no time.
- It’s perfect for cleaning large areas like driveways or patios and can get into those hard-to-reach places.
Here’s How to Do It:
- Start by setting your pressure washer to a low or medium pressure. This is important—you want enough power to clean, but not so much that it could damage your tiles.
- Begin at the top of your surface and work your way down. This way, any dirt or grime flows down and away as you go, making it easier to clean the entire area.
- For any stubborn stains or moss, you can pre-treat the area with a cleaning solution. Let it sit for a few minutes, and then wash it away with the pressure washer.
- Once you’re done, rinse everything off with clean water to make sure there’s no cleaner or residue left behind.
Tip: It’s always smart to test your pressure washer on a small, out-of-sight area first. This will let you check that the setting isn’t too strong for your tiles.
2. Baking Soda and Vinegar: Simple, Safe, and Eco-Friendly
Looking for a natural, no-fuss solution? Baking soda and vinegar are all you need! These two everyday staples aren’t just great for cooking—they’re surprisingly effective for cleaning, too. Used together, they pack a powerful punch, lifting dirt and tough stains off your tiles without the need for harsh chemicals.
And the best part? They’re completely safe, non-toxic, and gentle on the environment, so you get a great clean without any worry.
Fun Fact: Commercial Cleaning Group also uses completely safe, non-toxic material to clean.
Why It Works:
- Baking soda and vinegar might seem basic, but they’re shockingly effective cleaners!
- Baking soda is just abrasive enough to scrub off grime without scratching up your tiles. It’s gentle yet tough on dirt.
- Vinegar is like nature’s little cleaner, breaking down grease, grime, and even those stubborn mineral stains that just won’t budge otherwise.
Here’s How to Do It:
- Start by making a thick paste with baking soda and a little water. You want it thick enough to stick to the tiles without dripping.
- Spread the paste over any dirty spots for Floor Cleaning and let it sit for about 10–15 minutes. This gives it time to work its magic.
- Now, spray some white vinegar right on top of the paste. Watch it fizz up! This fizzing action is what helps lift away the dirt.
- Grab a soft brush or cloth and start scrubbing. Go gently—you’re helping the fizz do its job, not doing all the work yourself.
- Rinse the tiles with warm water, washing away any leftover paste and grime. Your tiles will look refreshed and like new!
Tip: This method is fantastic for areas that tend to get greasy, like around the BBQ or pool. Baking soda and vinegar can tackle the oils and food stains that build up in those areas.
3. Tile-Specific Cleaner for Delicate Tiles
If your outdoor tiles are made from materials like natural stone or marble, you’ll want to handle them with a bit more care. These surfaces are beautiful but can be easily scratched or damaged by regular cleaners. Using a cleaner made specifically for delicate tiles will help you get a deep clean without harming the surface.
Why It Works:
- Tile-specific cleaners are formulated for different types of Strata Cleaning, which means they’re effective without being too harsh. They clean away dirt and stains without scratching, dulling, or eroding the surface.
Here’s How to Do It:
- Find a cleaner made for your tile type (especially if you have natural stone—make sure it’s safe for that!).
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for how to apply it, usually with a soft cloth or a mop.
- For tougher stains, you can use a soft-bristled brush to give it a gentle scrub.
- Once you’re done, rinse the tiles thoroughly to get rid of any cleaner residue.
Tip: After cleaning, use a dry cloth to buff the tiles for a little extra shine, especially if you’re working with stone.
4. Dish Soap and a Brush: Simple But Effective
For routine cleaning, you can’t beat the simplicity of dish soap and warm water. It’s a quick and easy way to get rid of everyday dirt and dust. Plus, it’s gentle on your tiles and the environment.
Why It Works:
- The dish soap helps break down oils and dirt, making it perfect for outdoor areas, especially near food preparation spots.
- A stiff-bristled brush can get into grout lines and textured areas where dirt likes to hide.
Here’s How to Do It:
- Start by adding a few drops of dish soap to a bucket of warm water. You don’t need much—just enough to get a bit of suds going.
- Dip a stiff-bristled brush into the soapy water, then scrub your tiles using circular motions. The circular scrubbing action helps lift dirt effectively.
- Make sure to give extra attention to the grout lines. They’re like dirt magnets and can hold onto grime longer than the rest of the tile.
- Once you’re done scrubbing, rinse everything thoroughly with clean water to wash away the soap and any leftover dirt.
Tip: After rinsing, it’s a good idea to go over the area with a mop and plain water. This helps ensure there’s no soapy residue left behind, keeping your tiles nice and clean without any leftover streaks.
5. Bleach Solution for Stubborn Mould and Moss
If you’re dealing with tough mould, moss, or algae on your outdoor tiles, a stronger solution might be in order. That’s where a bleach solution comes in! It’s great for tackling these stubborn growths and leaving your tiles looking clean and fresh again.
Why It Works:
- Bleach is a powerful disinfectant, so it kills mould and algae on contact, helping ensure they don’t pop up again anytime soon.
- It’s also a brightener, so it can help bring back that “like-new” look to tiles that have dulled over time.
Here’s How to Do It:
- Mix one part bleach with 10 parts water in a bucket. This ratio keeps it strong enough to work but safe for most surfaces.
- Apply the solution to the areas with mould or algae using a cloth or sponge. Be generous on the spots that need extra attention.
- Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes so it can work its way into the growth and break it down.
- Grab a stiff brush and scrub away any leftover bits of moss, mould, or algae.
- Finally, rinse everything with clean water to wash away any bleach residue.
Tip: Be mindful if you have plants around! Bleach can harm them, so consider covering any nearby greenery with plastic or be extra cautious with your application.
Also Read: Guide to Cleaning Hybrid Flooring
Conclusion
And there you have it—five of the best ways to clean your outdoor tiles effectively. Whether it’s a pressure washer for major jobs, baking soda and vinegar for eco-friendly cleaning, or a special tile cleaner for delicate surfaces, each method can keep your outdoor tiles in great shape.
If you’d rather leave the heavy lifting to the pros, we are here to help. Check out our services and let our team handle everything from deep office cleaning to regular maintenance, so your outdoor spaces always look their best.
With these simple tips, you can keep your tiles looking fantastic all year round. A little regular care goes a long way in preserving their beauty and durability, giving you an outdoor area that’s both functional and inviting. Enjoy your outdoor space, and let us take care of the rest!