How To Clean Waterline Pool Tile
Among all the requirements of pool maintenance, waterline pool tiles require special attention because they're constantly battling grime buildup from sunscreens, lotions, and minerals in the water. These elements combine to form a visible scum line at the water's edge. If left uncleaned, this scum can harden and become much more difficult to remove.
Regular cleaning helps prevent this buildup, keeping your waterline looking clean and fresh, and preventing potential staining from becoming a permanent problem. In this article, we will tell you how to clean the tile in your swimming pool, step by step.
What You'll Need
- Pool skimmer
- Hose
- Rubber gloves
- Baking soda, vinegar, or commercial pool cleaner
- Scrub brush
- Pumice stone (optional)
- Magic eraser (optional)
01
Remove Debris
Use a skimmer net to remove any leaves, grass clippings, or other debris that has collected at the waterline. Getting these larger bits out of the way will prevent anything from getting in your way while you're cleaning.
02
Apply the Cleaning Solution
This will give you easier access to the waterline tile. Doing this is not strictly necessary, however it will greatly improve your cleaning experience by giving you direct access to the tile.
In addition, some cleaning methods, like using a brush or applying a cleaning solution directly, are simply more effective when done out of the water. Lowering the water level allows the cleaning solution to sit on the tile for a longer duration, increasing its effectiveness on stains and grime.
03
Rinse the Tiles
Using a hose, rinse the waterline tiles to remove loose dirt and debris. This will clear the surface so that your cleaning product can be most effective. It is a good idea to keep your hose handy throughout the cleaning process, as you will need to continually rinse cleaning product from the tiles as you go.
04
Rinse the Area
There are a few different cleaning solutions that you can use to clean pool tile. For all methods, always test your cleaning product on an inconspicuous area before cleaning the entire surface to ensure it does not cause any discoloration or other damage.
Commercial Pool Tile Cleaner
The safest and most effective option is to use a commercial pool tile cleaner, as it is specifically formulated to clean pool tiles without damaging them. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on the label of the cleaner very carefully or you may risk damaging your tiles. Be sure to choose a cleaner that is safe for your type of pool tile.
Vinegar Solution
For regular cleaning, a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water can be effective at removing mild mineral deposits and scum. This mixture will help break up light dirt and grime. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and spray the solution on the waterline tile and scrub with a brush. Rinse the area thoroughly with clean water.
Baking Soda Paste
For tougher stains, a paste made of baking soda and water can be quite effective. Baking soda is a mild abrasive that can help to remove dirt and grime without scratching the tile. Simply mix a few cups of baking soda with water to create a paste. (There is no need for precise measuring—you will know it's ready when it can easily be spread across a surface and stay in place.) Apply the paste to the tiles, scrub them gently with a brush, and then rinse thoroughly with clean water.
Pumice Stone
If you have particularly stubborn mineral buildup, a pumice stone will make the cleaning job much easier. Wet the pumice stone and the tile. Scrub the stained area gently with the pumice stone. Rinse the area thoroughly with clean water. Be sure to keep the pumice stone wet whenever you are scrubbing, as a dry pumice stone can scratch tiles.
Melamine Sponge
Melamine sponges, sometimes known as “magic erasers,” can be a useful tool for cleaning waterline pool tiles. They are generally safe for most pool tile materials like ceramic, porcelain and glass tiles. This method is best for spot-cleaning especially dirty areas but may be a bit more labor intensive for the entire waterline. To clean your pool tile with a magic eraser, simply wet the sponge and scrub the dirty area.
05
Final Rinse
Using a hose, thoroughly rinse off any remaining cleaning solution. Whether you use commercial tile cleaner, vinegar, or baking soda paste, the cleaning process leaves behind residue on the tile surface. If you used a very strong commercial cleaning solution, consult the product label for specific instructions. Baking soda and vinegar cleaning methods do not require you to wait before swimming.