Easiest Way to Remove Scale Between Bathroom Tiles

by Jenny Harrington Google
Soft abrasives remove scale without damaging tile and grout.

Soft abrasives remove scale without damaging tile and grout.

Hard water that contains heavy amounts of lime and other minerals results in scale buildup. Scale problems often occur on bathroom tiles and the grout between the tiles since water is often left to dry on these surfaces. Frequent cleaning with the right tools is the easiest way to maintain the tiles and grout without scratches or damage.


Harsh abrasives damage both the tile and the grout between the tiles. Avoid heavy duty scouring powders and stiff brushes. Mild cleansers and abrasives work as well as the harsher alternatives without damaging the surface, although they may require more scrubbing and elbow grease for complete scale removal. Mildly abrasive sponges are usually mild enough for scrubbing tile and grout. Alternatively, use an old soft-bristled toothbrush to get into the small spaces between the tiles.

Scale Removal

Typical lime scale has a chalky white appearance, but it doesn't flake from the tile or grout easily. Mixing equal parts vinegar and baking soda together to form a paste supplies a mild abrasive. The acidic vinegar cuts through the scale while the abrasive baking soda scrubs the loosened deposits from the tile and grout surface. Smear the paste over the entire affected area and leave it to sit for five to 10 minutes. Scrub the tile and grout with the abrasive sponge or toothbrush then rinse with clear water. The tile may require multiple applications and scrubs, depending on the severity of the scale buildup.

Removing Discoloration

Lime scale may also leave behind a rusty red, brown or a greenish-blue discoloration, depending on other metals present in the hard water. Mixing lemon juice and borax to form a paste and scrubbing the tile and grout with the solution removes rusty stains. Cream of tartar and hydrogen peroxide can minimize brown, black and greenish-blue stains. Chlorine bleach or tile cleaners containing bleach can also lighten these stains if they are used after the scale deposits have been removed.


The heavier the scale buildup, the more difficult and time consuming removal becomes. Preventing heavy buildup in areas with known hard water issues minimizes the frequency of cleaning. Less frequent scale removal also extends the life of the tile and grout, since even with careful scrubbing damage can eventually occur. Wipe down showers and tub enclosures after every use with a towel or squeegee so the water doesn't dry on the wall and leave behind scale deposits. Installing a water softener can also eliminate scale problems in the home.

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