Child Item

How to remove stains off outdoor tiles?

Hi,

We had some handyman do some waterproofing and tiling work, but they didnt clean up properly and we were left with hard to remove stains on tiles. Any product or cleaning suggestions for removing off tiles:

waterproofing
tile adhesive
rust

Thanks

Find more posts tagged with

Tools and Materials

Decking and Paving

Repairing

Tiling

Cleaning

Comments

EricL

Hello @WL

To remove rust stains from tiles using a vinegar-based solution, you can create a thick cleaning paste by combining one cup of white vinegar with one-quarter cup of baking soda. Begin by pouring the vinegar into a cup, then gradually add 1/4 baking soda to control the natural fizzing reaction that occurs. Stir the mixture until it forms a smooth, spreadable paste. Once ready, apply the paste directly to the rust-stained areas of the tile, making sure to cover them fully.

Allow the paste to sit for about 15 to 20 minutes so that the vinegar’s acetic acid can break down the rust. After the waiting period, gently scrub the area with a soft-bristled brush or sponge to lift the stain. Finally, rinse the tiles thoroughly with warm water and dry them with a clean cloth. If the stain persists, the process can be repeated. This method is safe for most ceramic and porcelain tiles, but if you are dealing with natural stone surfaces, avoid vinegar and use a stone-safe cleaner instead.

As for the other stains, I propose looking at using DIGGERS 1L Methylated Spirits. Use a clean rag and wipe a small section of the stains and see if it is effective. Remember to rinse the floor with detergent and water.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

karinas

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/55739#Comment_55739

Hi Eric

I have some rust stains on tiles in an outdoor covered balcony area too. They look like rust stains but they were already there when I moved to the property, so I can’t be 100% sure they are rust and not marks from stain that has leached out from wood furniture (or something else).
I have tried vinegar and baking soda paste, detergent based cleaners, gumption (which is really just a baking soda paste anyway).
The tiles are porous so I am cautious about using something like CLR or really abrasive products. Are there other ways to get rid of these stains? There are a lot of them all over the tiled area.

MitchellMc

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/90971#Comment_90971

Hi @karinas,

It sounds like you’ve already gone through the gentler cleaning methods without much success, which suggests the marks have penetrated into the porous surface of the tiles. At this point, it’s likely that stronger treatments are needed to shift them. Because porous materials can be easily damaged by harsher chemicals, I’d suggest contacting a professional exterior surface cleaning company. They’ll have access to specialised products and the right experience to safely tackle stubborn stains without ruining the finish of your tiles.

Please let us know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

Child Item