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A man cleaning tiles | Source: Getty Images
How to Clean Mortar off Tile in 3 Ways
By
Milla Sigaba
Jan 19, 202407:59 A.M.
Mortar is a commonly used bonding agent that you can clean off tiles in many ways. However, these three methods of cleaning mortar off tiles are convenient because they make use of products you probably already have in your home.
Chances are, you have mortar all over your house — from the tiles on your floors to the bricks in your walls. This wet clay-like substance is a commonly used bonding agent generally produced by mixing cementing or binding materials with water.
However, mortar differs from cement in that it is creamier and rarely used in thick applications. Seeing that mortar is commonly used in home construction, you've probably noticed a few streaks of the bonding agent you need to clean. Continue reading for three easy ways to do so.
A man laying tiles with mortar | Source: Getty Images
How to Clean Mortar off Tile
1. Using Vinegar
Vinegar is the perfect common household ingredient for removing mortar, thanks to its strong properties. Mix the vinegar with water in a spray bottle to create a natural cleaning solution.
Then, spritz it all over the surface you want to clean and allow it to sit for about 15 minutes. After waiting, use a brush, scraper, or razor blade to chip the mortar away carefully. Once the bonding agent is gone, wipe your tiles with a damp, clean cloth and pat dry with a towel.
Someone cleaning tiles | Source: Getty Images
2. Using Dish Soap
Another common household product you can use to clean mortar off tiles is dish soap. Pour the soap into a bucket of warm water and dip a sponge inside. Use the sponge to clean the mortar. For tougher mortar streaks, use a scraper, brush, or chisel to chip the substance away. Finish off by piping the tiles using a clean cloth and patting them dry.
A man scrubbing tiles with a brush | Source: Getty Images
3. Using Muriatic Acid
If you want a stronger substance to remove mortar from your tiles, use muriatic acid, a powerful chemical perfect for removing mortar. Wear gloves and safety goggles—as muriatic acid is very powerful and can cause severe damage to the skin and eyes if not handled with caution—before mixing the acid with water in a ratio of 1:1 and applying it to the area you would like to clean.
Leave the mixture for 10-15 minutes, then rinse it with water. Repeat this process if need be until all mortar is gone.
A man cleaning tiles | Source: Getty Images
Now that you know how to clean mortar off tiles, you don't have to worry about the bonding agent ruining your home with smudges and stains.
Meanwhile, if you have matte porcelain tiles, you might enjoy this guide on how to clean matte porcelain tiles.
