Tile joints in floors, bathrooms and kitchens often lose their whiteness and become black. In humid environments, they also become covered in dark, smelly mold. In addition, the usually slightly recessed spaces between the tiles encourage the accumulation of dirt and lead to blackening of the joints.
There are several very effective natural remedies to eliminate mold. Lavender essential oil is one of them. It is also useful for removing mold from the walls of the house, both indoors and outdoors.
Baking soda or vinegar are often used to whiten tile joints with natural products. Since they are excellent antibacterial and antimicrobial agents, these two quite effective products achieve good results. In addition, baking soda also neutralizes odors. On the contrary: vinegar can leave the house with a very pungent smell.
Not just baking soda and vinegar, even this other cheap stuff will do!
In addition to baking soda and vinegar, you can also use another product that everyone has at home to whiten tiles. It is hydrogen peroxide, which is useful for sterilizing wounds.
This product, sold in supermarkets for a few euros, combines perfectly with baking powder. They are an effective way to eliminate and neutralize mold odors. Hydrogen peroxide is also an excellent degreasing agent.
It is enough to mix ½ liter of hydrogen peroxide and ½ cup of sodium bicarbonate (about 100 grams). Mix the two ingredients well until a semi-solid paste is formed.
Wearing a disposable glove, spread the paste on the blackened joints and scrub with a toothbrush or sponge. Leave on for about 10 minutes and rinse with lukewarm water. If necessary, repeat the process until the desired surface is completely brightened.
The same process can also be used to lighten the joints between bathroom tiles and floor tiles.
other remedies
Another effective but more expensive remedy is toilet descaling gel. All you have to do is pour the product between the tiles and leave it to work for about 20 minutes. The result is excellent, but it is more aggressive and not very respectful of the environment.