How to Prevent Water Spots on Black Tile Shower Floors

Black tile shower floors look very attractive and add a touch of elegance to the bathroom but they are prone to hard water stains and water spots. These blemishes can ruin the appearance of the tiles and detract from their appeal and over time can also damage the surface of the tiles. Keeping the tiled floor regularly maintained is the only surefire way of preventing these water spots from materializing. Water spots are caused by hard water and other mineral stains which leave unsightly traces on the tile floor. If these stains are not cleaned immediately and are allowed to build up, they result in water spots. Hence, the only way of preventing water spots in black tile shower floors is to clean the flooring regularly and remove every individual stain that turns up.

Step 1 - Recognize the Hard Water Stains

The existing hard water stains on the tiles lure more soap scum, dirt, and hard water particles. Hence, removing them the minute they are spotted is important to prevent any further buildup. Any dirty patches and stained portions of the tiled floor will need to be cleaned. Recognizing spots in black tiles can take some time but is worth the effort.

Step 2 - Soak the Stains

Hard water stains are alkaline in nature and as they build up they cause practically immovable water spots on the tiles. Combating these spots in the nascent stage is the best way of preventing excessive buildup. Use lemon juice or white vinegar to fight the alkaline stains. The acid in these substances weakens the stains and causes the particles to break. A cleaning rag dipped in vinegar or lemon juice should be used to soak the stains. This solution should be allowed to stand for 20 minutes.

Step 3 - Wipe the Stains

Using a clean washcloth, wipe the vinegar covered stains. Lighter stains usually come off at this level but if they are thick deposits, dip a cleaning rag in a little bit of water and then use some baking soda with it to drive the harder stains off.

Step 4 - Chip the Stains

Some stains don’t leave even when baking soda is used or leave behind some stubborn particles which can attract grime. A razor blade or a box cutter can be used to pry these stains out of their place on the tiles. This step should be carried out carefully as you can damage the surface of the tile. Remove as much as possible with the blade and then use the vinegar soaked rag again for maximum effect.

Step 5 - Prevent Future Stains

When it comes to black tile shower floors, preventing stains is the best way of dealing with water spots. Clean the tiles once a week with cold water and vinegar to keep them new and to stop any water spots from building up. Using a squeegee after every shower use will help to prevent new stains from forming.