Tile & Stone Cleaners

Grout haze removers are formulated to remove residue left on tile after grouting, but the correct cleaner depends on the grout and surface. Cementitious grout haze and epoxy grout residue generally require different products. Acidic haze removers should not automatically be used on acid-sensitive stone such as marble or limestone.

Natural stone should be cleaned with products specifically approved for the stone and finish being treated. pH-neutral and stone-safe cleaners are commonly used for routine care of marble, limestone, travertine, granite, and other compatible stone. Acid-sensitive materials require particular care because acidic cleaners can etch or alter their surfaces.

Specialty rust removers can treat iron-based staining on compatible tile and stone surfaces. Because rust-removal chemistry can affect certain natural stones, grout, metals, or finishes, verify the product's approved surfaces before use. Identifying the stain as rust rather than another form of mineral discoloration also helps determine the appropriate treatment.

Neutral cleaners are generally intended for routine surface maintenance and everyday soils. Heavy-duty cleaners use more aggressive cleaning chemistry to address grease, oils, soap residue, embedded dirt, or substantial buildup. The appropriate choice depends on the surface and contamination rather than simply choosing the strongest available cleaner.

Post-installation cleaning can use grout haze removers, cement residue cleaners, epoxy residue removers, or general cleaners depending on what remains on the surface. The cleaner must also be compatible with the tile, stone, grout, and surrounding materials. Follow applicable curing and cleanup requirements before treating newly installed surfaces.

Some cleaners are approved for both porcelain tile and natural stone, but compatibility should never be assumed. Porcelain generally has different chemical resistance and porosity than natural stone. Acidic products that are suitable for certain porcelain cleaning tasks can etch marble, limestone, travertine, and other acid-sensitive materials.

Soap scum and mineral deposits can require different cleaning chemistry, so identify the buildup and shower materials before selecting a cleaner. Products formulated for soap residue or mineral deposits can be used on approved surfaces. Natural stone showers require cleaners specifically compatible with the stone and its finish.

Identify the surface material, finish, existing treatments, and the contaminant you need to remove. Then determine whether the job requires routine cleaning, heavy-duty cleaning, grout haze removal, rust treatment, mineral deposit removal, or another specialty cleaner. Verify compatibility with every affected surface before beginning the complete cleaning application.