Cleaning pool tiles can be an inviting spot, but only when the water is clear, tiles are free of mineral film, and there’s no mould in sight.
Be it sparkling, modern mosaics or classic Spanish-style ceramics, the area at the waterline is most susceptible to stains. This is where tiles meet air and thus trigger a chemical reaction that fungi, mineral build ups and various discolouration agents simply love.
However, sometimes you should drain the entire pool to scrub tiles and thus keep tile work healthy and free from additional maintenance. It is quite popular to tile only the water edging in in ground pools, making the cleaning pool tiles much more manageable.
As professional tile and ground cleaners at Paul’s Cleaning Company (Melbourne), we know that colleagues from the pool cleaning branch recommend draining, cleaning, and refilling an in-ground pool every 5-7 years unless a severe problem deems earlier attention.
Why do pool tiles get dirty?
Understanding calcium buildup on pool tiles
It may seem like a common occurrence for pool tiles to build up a layer of white on the side just above the water level. Natural evaporation lowers the waterline, leaving it vulnerable to staining. As H2O evaporates, high pH levels or alkalinity cause calcium to adhere to the water’s edge, slowly going down. The ideal numbers are a pH of 7.4 and an alkalinity range of 80-120 PPM (parts per million).
Chemical imbalance and staining
Also, an imbalance in the chemical composition of pool water causes scales and stains to appear at the water’s edge. That’s why basic know how about what and why pool water needs is important so you stay away from problems.
On general occasions, it is scale or stain that causes discolouration, but so do falling leaves that stick to the sides.
Is all calcium buildup the same?
No. You have two primary culprits:
Calcium silicate
One is Calcium silicate, and it’s the toughest of the two, as it usually takes longer to form. Also known as silicic acid, calcium salt, and calcium silicon oxide, it comes in a colour drifting from white to grey and is not affected by muriatic acid. You need a pumice stone to get it off.
Calcium carbonate
The second is Calcium carbonate. If you see it bubbling after muriatic acid treatment, then you have a match.
Mind both and scrub tiles in time.
What causes mineral buildups?
Again, we have two primary culprits:
- Extreme heat;
- Hard water.
Having both makes cleaning pool tiles a nightmare
How to clean pool tile stains & scale
The best solution is to be consistent with the cleaning and maintenance of your pool, just like you should do with your BBQ.
Equip yourself with a soft brush and do a bit of scrubbing twice a week as part of your maintenance routine, and you’ll keep algae, mould, and dirt gross away.
However, if you want to stay chemical free, there are always classic recipes. Just note that the following would work only if the waterline grime is light:
- Good old baking soda;
- The classic Borax;
- The well-known vinegar;
- Fluorine-based toothpaste;
- And dish soap.
Cases that go beyond require a professional approach.
Regular maintenance measures
Regular upkeep of your pool and pool tiles is the best way to stay on top of built-up dirt and film, not to mention up keeping a healthy & non-toxic environment for children.
- Keep leaves and grass clippings from clinging to tile edges.
- Brush the tiles in circular motions to keep calcium carbonate from building up.
- If working on these areas every couple of days, vinegar and water, and baking soda and vinegar can reduce the damage.
Nothing helps keep the pool clean like prevention.
Pressure washing pool tiles
If you are a DIY’er when it comes to in-ground pool maintenance, renting a pressure washer may be a good option for you. This is the best way to clean a pool tile that is safe and chemical-free.
You need no detergents for pressure washing. Pressurised steam set at 2000 to 2600 PSI can remove built-up dirt, mould, and calcium deposits.
Scrubbing pool tiles
A detergent based spray cleaner and a stiff nylon brush can be used. Spray the area and put elbow grease to work as a pool tile scrubber. Depending on the size of your in-ground pool, this could be a job for a few people.
Utilise acid for washing tiles
We do not recommend acid washing for the average layman because of the dangers associated with it. It delivers excellent results, though. You should only use this procedure to drain and clean the interior surfaces.
- Mix equal amounts of muriatic acid (HCL) and water.
- Scrub the floor with an acid proof brush.
- Use ~1 kg soda ash to 4 litres of muriatic acid to neutralise the acid, then rinse thoroughly with fresh water.
- Using protective clothing, including a mask, goggles, and rubber gloves, is a must during this process.
Commercial cleaners
Professional pool cleaners are trained to recognise different types of stains and deposits that have built up on your pool tiles. Different products are recommended depending on the kind of dirt buildup on the tile and grout.
Calcium carbonate scaling
Calcium carbonate scaling will appear as a flaky white crust. In addition to commercial cleaners, a pumice stone and diligent scrubbing are alternatives.
Calcium silicate
Calcium silicate is a problematic type of scaling to remove. It appears as white-grey scum and is very hard to remove.
Pool maintenance
Pool maintenance and tile cleanup can be a challenge in today’s busy world. Sometimes it is easier to contract a pool cleaning company to stay on top of your pool’s health. Pool tiles can cost around $50 to $95 per square metre when maintenance has not been performed regularly.
How to clean pool tile without draining
Lower the water level strategically
You don’t need to drain your entire pool to access dirty tiles. Simply lower the water level by 4-6 inches below the waterline. This exposes the problem area while keeping most of your pool water intact, saving you thousands of gallons and reducing refill costs.
Use the right tools and techniques
Attach a tile brush to a telescopic pole to scrub the waterline while working from the pool deck. For stubborn stains and calcium buildup, apply a pumice stone or specialised tile cleaner directly to the affected areas. Work in small sections, scrubbing in circular motions for the best results.
Apply cleaning solutions safely
For calcium deposits, use a mixture of water and muriatic acid diluted to manufacturer’s specifications, or opt for a commercial calcium remover. Apply the solution to the exposed tiles, let it sit for the recommended time, then scrub and rinse thoroughly. This method keeps your pool functional while achieving professional looking results.
How do professionals clean pool tile?
Media blasting for deep cleaning
Professional pool cleaners often use media blasting techniques such as glass bead or soda blasting. This method effectively removes calcium deposits, stains, and years of buildup without damaging the tile surface or grout. It’s fast, efficient, and delivers dramatically improved appearance.
Commercial grade products and equipment
Professionals rely on commercial grade tile cleaners with specific pH balances designed for pool environments. They use pressure washing equipment calibrated to clean without causing damage, along with specialised brushes that reach into grout lines and textured surfaces.
Acid washing and chemical balancing
For heavy calcium buildup, professionals perform acid washing with diluted muriatic acid, following strict safety protocols to protect both the tiles and themselves. After cleaning, they test and balance your pool’s chemistry to prevent future staining and ensure the longevity of your tile surfaces.
How do you bring old tiles back to life?
Remove all deposits and stains
Start the restoration process by removing all calcium deposits and organic stains using a pumice stone or commercial calcium remover. Work systematically across the entire tiled area, paying special attention to heavily stained sections. This creates a clean foundation for the remaining steps.
Deep clean and restore shine
Create a paste using baking soda and water, then apply it to the tiles and scrub thoroughly with a nylon brush. For severe discoloration that doesn’t respond to gentle methods, consider acid washing with diluted muriatic acid, always following safety guidelines and wearing protective gear.
Seal and protect for longevity
After cleaning, inspect tiles for cracks or damage and replace any broken pieces. Once repairs are complete, apply a tile and grout sealer to protect the surface and enhance its natural shine. Finish by polishing the tiles with a soft cloth. Regular maintenance with proper water chemistry will prevent future deterioration and keep your restored tiles looking new.
What should you not use to clean ceramic pool tile?
Protecting your ceramic cleaning pool tiles means knowing which cleaning products and tools to avoid. Using the wrong materials can cause permanent damage, create safety hazards, or weaken your pool’s structure.
Avoid abrasive tools:
- Steel wool and wire brushes
- Abrasive metal scrubbing pads
- Any harsh scouring materials that scratch tile surfaces
Skip harmful chemicals:
- Bleach-based cleaners that damage grout
- Ammonia-based products that react with chlorine
- Any cleaners that create toxic fumes
Say no to slippery products:
- Oil-based cleaners
- Furniture polishes
- Wax products that create safety hazards
Handle acids with care:
- Never use undiluted acids
- Always wear protective equipment
- Test products on small areas first
- Ensure proper ventilation when working
Can you use CLR cleaning pool tiles?
Yes, CLR (Calcium, Lime, and Rust remover) is safe and effective for cleaning pool tiles when used correctly. It’s specifically formulated to dissolve mineral deposits that commonly accumulate on pool surfaces, making it ideal for waterline cleaning.
Proper application method:
- Apply only to drained or exposed tiles above the waterline
- Never pour directly into pool water
- Spray or apply to affected tiles
- Let sit for 2-5 minutes
- Don’t let it dry on the surface
Scrub and rinse thoroughly:
- Use a nylon brush to remove loosened deposits
- Rinse completely with clean water
- Works best on calcium deposits, lime scale, and rust stains
Safety precautions:
- Test on a small, hidden area first
- Wear gloves during application
- Work in a well-ventilated area
- Take extra care with natural stone or specialty tiles
How do you remove stains from pool tiles?
Identify your stain type
Different stains require different approaches. Mineral deposits and calcium buildup appear as white or gray crusty formations. Organic stains from leaves, algae, or dirt show up as brown, green, or black discoloration. Metal stains from copper or iron create blue-green or rust-colored marks.
Use appropriate cleaning methods
For mineral deposits, gently rub a pumice stone on the stained area until the buildup disappears. Organic stains respond well to a paste made from baking soda and water—apply it, let it sit for 15 minutes, then scrub with a nylon brush. Light calcium deposits can be treated with white vinegar; spray it on, wait 10-15 minutes, and scrub away.
Handle stubborn stains safely
Stubborn stains may require commercial pool tile cleaners formulated for specific stain types. For the toughest buildup, diluted muriatic acid (1 part acid to 10 parts water) provides powerful cleaning action. Always wear protective gloves, eyewear, and work in a well-ventilated area when handling acidic solutions.
Can you use Dawn dish soap to clean your pool filter?
Why Dawn works on filters
Dawn dish soap is surprisingly effective for cleaning pool filter cartridges because it breaks down oils, sunscreen residue, lotions, and other organic contaminants that water alone cannot remove. These substances clog filter pleats and reduce filtration efficiency.
Proper cleaning process
Remove the filter cartridge and rinse it with a garden hose to remove loose debris. Mix Dawn dish soap with water in a spray bottle or bucket, then thoroughly coat the filter pleats with the solution. Let it soak for 15-20 minutes to allow the soap to penetrate and dissolve buildup.
Rinse completely
After soaking, rinse the filter completely and thoroughly until all soap residue is gone and the water runs clear. Any remaining soap will create excessive foam when the filter is returned to the pool, disrupting water chemistry and potentially causing equipment issues.
Important warning for pool tiles
Avoid using Dawn on pool tiles themselves. While it cleans filters effectively, soap entering your pool water creates foam, disrupts chemical balance, and can lead to cloudy water that requires additional treatment to correct.
How often should pool tiles be cleaned?
Weekly light maintenance
For light maintenance, brush your pool tiles every 1-2 weeks to prevent buildup before it becomes problematic. This regular brushing takes just a few minutes but keeps tiles looking fresh and prevents stains from setting in permanently.
Monthly deep cleaning
The waterline tiles should receive a deeper cleaning monthly, as this area accumulates oils, sunscreen, lotions, and calcium deposits most rapidly. This is where body oils and products concentrate, creating the visible ring that makes pools look neglected.
Annual professional cleaning
Plan for a thorough deep clean or professional cleaning annually, especially if you notice significant staining, scaling, or discoloration that regular brushing cannot address. Professional treatments like media blasting or acid washing can restore tiles to like-new condition.
Adjust for your environment
Pools in areas with hard water or heavy tree coverage may need more frequent attention. Similarly, heavily used pools or those exposed to high levels of sunscreen and oils require more aggressive cleaning schedules. Consistent maintenance is always easier and less expensive than dealing with severe buildup.
Frequently asked questions for cleaning pool tiles
What is the best thing to clean pool tiles with?
Can you use Mr. Clean Magic Eraser on pool tiles?
How to clean pool tiles above the waterline in Australia?
How do you remove hard water stains from pool tiles?
What Is the best waterline cleaning Pool tile?
Follow our tips & keep pool tiles clean
If you find yourself lacking the time for the care of your pool, several pool maintenance companies in Australia are experienced and ready to give you a quote.
Follow these tips when you find yourself lacking the time for the care of your pool, as pool maintenance professionals in Australia are experienced and ready to help.
