How to renew dull bathroom tiles?

[Dansell]

I have black bathroom tiles that have lost their shine.  I have cleaned them, but they are no longer glossy.  I don't want to repaint them I just would like to use something to give them there shine back.  Any recommendations?

[JacobZ]

Hi @Dansell,

A warm welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community and thank you for your question.

Is it possible to get some photos of your tiles?

This would certainly help us offer recommendations based on your specific circumstances. Let me know if you need a hand uploading images, I'm happy to help if required.

Do you know what kind of tiles they are? Natural stone, ceramic or porcelain?

When you say they've lost their shine, are there some tiles that still look shiny and other tiles in higher traffic areas have lost their shine? Is it possible there is a sealer on the tiles? 

If so, an application of Davco Sanitized Tile And Grout Sealer could help bring back the shine.

It could also be worthwhile using a buffer polisher with a suitable pad for your tiles to give them back their shine.

Once you've provided some further details, I will be happy to assist further if required.

Jacob

[Dansell]

Thanks Jacob photo attached.  I appreciate your assistance.  Cheers Donna

[JacobZ · Accepted solution]

Hi @Dansell,

It looks like you have efflorescence built up on your tiles. It occurs when water travels through a material such as grout, dissolving soluble salts within it, and then evaporates at the surface, leaving the salts behind.

Try using Crommelin Efflorescence Remover mixed 1:1 with water. Use it in a small test section and gauge results before committing to its use on the full area. Wet the tiles before application and apply the product to the affected areas with a brush. Once the visible reaction has ceased, clean the area with clean water. 

Once the efflorescence has been removed, use Davco Sanitized Tile And Grout Sealer to reseal the grout to prevent further efflorescence build-up.

Let me know what you think and if you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to ask.

Jacob