Backsplash can be a great way to add visual interest and protect your walls in a kitchen or bathroom. However, over time it can accumulate dirt, grime, and stains that can be difficult to remove. Getting backsplash clean can seem daunting, but with the right techniques and cleaning solutions, you can get your backsplash sparkling again.
What You Need to Clean Backsplash
- Mild detergent or dish soap
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- Soft sponge or cloth
- Old toothbrush or other small brush
- Razor blade/scraper (for really stubborn buildup)
- Eye protection
- Rubber gloves
Cleaning Ceramic, Porcelain, or Glass Tile Backsplash
Ceramic, porcelain, and glass backsplash tiles are very common and also among the easiest to clean. Here’s how to get them looking brand new:
- Mix a mild detergent like dish soap with warm water in a spray bottle. Spray down the entire backsplash and let it sit for 5 minutes. This will loosen any dirt and grease.
- Use a soft sponge or cloth to scrub the tiles. Pay close attention to the grout lines where grime loves to collect.
- For stubborn spots, make a paste of baking soda and water and gently scrub with an old toothbrush. The abrasive but soft paste will lift off gunk without scratching.
- Rinse the entire surface thoroughly with clean water and pat dry with a towel.
- For hard water deposits or soap scum, spray pure white vinegar and let sit for a few minutes before scrubbing. The acidity in vinegar dissolves mineral deposits.
- Check for any remaining sticky spots and use a razor blade/scraper to gently lift off the buildup. Wipe clean with water.
Cleaning Natural Stone Backsplashes
Natural stone like marble, granite, slate, or travertine requires gentler care because it’s porous and acids can damage the surface. Here’s how to clean stone backsplash safely:
- Mix a few drops of mild dish soap into warm water and use a soft cloth to wipe down the stone.
- For grout, mix baking soda and water into a spreadable paste and use an old toothbrush to lightly scrub the grout lines.
- Rinse the backsplash thoroughly with clean water and pat dry with a soft towel.
- To brighten the stone, make a paste of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Gently rub onto the stone with a soft cloth.
- Never use vinegar, lemon juice, or other acids on natural stone. This can etch the surface.
Cleaning Metal, Mosaic, or Glass Sheet Backsplash
For delicate materials like metal tiles, glass mosaic, or glass sheet backsplash, mild cleaners and gentle scrubbing are key to avoid damage.
- Spray a diluted vinegar and water solution and let sit briefly before wiping clean with a soft cloth.
- For stuck-on dirt or soap scum, use a baking soda paste with a soft bristle brush.
- Avoid abrasive scrubbers or harsh chemicals that could scratch or dull the surface.
- Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a towel. Be extra careful with metal backsplash near sinks or faucets where mineral deposits build up.
- Use a razor blade to gently scrape off any hardened material, then wipe clean.
Cleaning Backsplash Grout
Grout takes a beating in kitchens and bathrooms. Here are some tips for keeping grout clean:
- Use a toothbrush and baking soda paste to scrub grout. The abrasive action lifts dirt from the grout lines.
- Try mixing equal parts hydrogen peroxide and baking soda for an effervescent grout cleaner. Let sit briefly before scrubbing.
- For mildew stains in grout, apply undiluted white vinegar and let sit for 5-10 minutes before scrubbing.
- A steam cleaner can blast away built-up gunk in grout lines.
- Regrouting may be needed if the grout is badly stained or cracking. New grout will make the whole backsplash look fresh.
Maintaining Backsplash
Regular maintenance can prevent backsplash from getting too dirty. Here are some tips:
- Wipe down the backsplash after cooking or bathing to prevent grease splatter or water spots from drying on.
- Squeegee the backsplash in shower areas after use to prevent soap scum and mildew buildup.
- Re-seal natural stone backsplash once a year to prevent stains from setting in the porous surface.
- Address spills or splatters right away so they don’t have time to soak in and stain.
When to Call a Professional
If DIY cleaning efforts aren’t getting your backsplash clean, call in a professional who can tackle the tough stains with commercial-grade products. Professionals also have specialty tools like power sprayers and steam machines that can deep clean grout and lift off layers of grime. For severely neglected backsplash, they may recommend regrouting for a completely fresh look.
Backsplash brings an eye-catching look to kitchen or bathroom walls but does require periodic scrubbing to keep it pristine. With some elbow grease and the right gentle cleaners, you can get your backsplash shining like new again. Regular maintenance cleaning is the best way to prevent major buildup. Follow these tips and enjoy a backsplash that looks freshly installed for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cleaning Backsplash
What is the best way to clean grease off backsplash?
Mix dish soap with warm water in a spray bottle and spray on the backsplash. Let sit for 5 minutes before scrubbing with a soft sponge or cloth. The soap will cut through the grease.
How do you clean soap scum off backsplash?
Spray white vinegar directly onto the soap scum and let sit for a few minutes. The vinegar will dissolve the scum. Scrub with a soft sponge and rinse clean.
What natural products clean backsplash?
Baking soda, white vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, and dish soap are all effective natural cleaners for backsplash. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the surface.
How do you get hard water stains off backsplash?
Hard water deposits can be tough to remove. Make a paste of baking soda and water and scrub into the stains. You can also spray vinegar, let sit, and scrub. For severe stains, a razor scraper may be needed.
Why does my backsplash look dull and dirty?
Grime buildup, hard water staining, and etches in natural stone can all make backsplash look dirty and dull. Deep clean with baking soda paste and vinegar solution. Re-seal natural stone. Regrouting may be needed for badly stained grout.
How often should I clean my backsplash?
Ideally, backsplash should be wiped down daily after cooking, bathing, etc. to prevent buildup. Deep clean backsplash every 1-2 weeks with baking soda scrub or vinegar spray for sparkling results. Re-seal natural stone 1-2 times per year.
What is the best grout cleaner for backsplash?
Baking soda paste mixed with water or hydrogen peroxide is an effective, natural grout cleaner safe for all backsplash types. Use an old toothbrush to get into the grout lines. For mildew stains, spray vinegar.
Why is my backsplash grout cracking?
Cracking grout is often due to moisture damage or long-term wear and tear. If re-sealing doesn’t help, regrouting likely will be needed for cracks wider than 1/16 inch. Avoid moisture issues to prevent future grout cracking.
How can I make my backsplash look new again?
Thorough cleaning with baking soda paste to scour stains, vinegar spray to dissolve buildup, and razor scraping for stuck-on gunk can make backsplash look brand new. Regrouting can also give backsplash a full refresh.
What household items can I use to clean my backsplash?
Baking soda, vinegar, dish soap, hydrogen peroxide, soft sponges/cloths, old toothbrushes, and razors are common household items that can be used to effectively clean all types of backsplash and grout. Avoid harsh chemicals.
Is it okay to use bleach on my kitchen backsplash?
Bleach is too harsh for most backsplash materials, especially natural stone which is porous. The bleach can discolor or damage the surface. Stick to mild detergents, baking soda, vinegar or hydrogen peroxide when cleaning.
Conclusion
Cleaning backsplash doesn’t have to be a dreaded chore with the right techniques. Mix up some simple homemade cleaning solutions using ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, and dish soap tailored to your backsplash material. Focus on gentle scrubbing, especially for natural stone or delicate materials. Maintain backsplash beauty by wiping spills quickly and doing regular deep cleaning. Call a professional for steam cleaning or regrouting if DIY efforts don’t get the job done. With some elbow grease, you can get your backsplash gleaming like new again.