Fresh Tips: How to Clean Tin Backsplash

When you’re picturing your weekly cleaning routines in areas like the bathroom or kitchen, you may wonder how exactly to treat your tin tile backsplash. With its 3D embossed pattern and flexible tin metal construction, perhaps you’re concerned that your tin tile will rust or be a pain to clean well. 

Here at American Tin Ceilings, we’re happy to tell you that tin tile as a backsplash could not be easier to clean. Even with regular oil or grease splatters from cooking in the kitchen, or moisture buildup after a bubble bath, keeping your tin tile looking good is easy. 

A tin tile backsplash is not only water-, heat-, and rust-resistant, it also doesn’t require any special treatments or mixtures to keep its shiny like-new appearance. For daily to weekly wipe-downs, all you need is a little mild soap and water . . . that’s it!  We’ll cover a few tips and tricks on how to clean tin tile backsplash and keep it in pristine condition.

Easy Does It: Water + Soap = Clean Tin Tile Backsplash

• mild soap (like dish soap)
• warm water
• soft sponge or cloth
• soft towel for drying

If you get oil or grease spots on your kitchen tin tile backsplash, clean them off with a soft non-abrasive sponge. Mix warm water with a simple soap (like a grease-fighting dish detergent) inside a bucket. Then use this soap/water mix to wipe down each tin tile. Also be sure to dry each area with a clean towel.

Need More Cleaning Power?  

• mild chemical cleaner (like Simple Green®)
• warm water
• soft sponge or cloth
• soft towel for drying

For areas where you have more areas of old grease or oil spots you missed on the tin tile backsplash, simply upgrade the power of your soap. You can do this by mixing water with a heavier-duty detergent soap that cuts through grease. Simple Green® All-Purpose Cleaner is a mild chemical cleaner and good grease remover option for cleaning tin tile that won't damage the sealed finish.

What to NOT Use When Cleaning Tin Tile Backsplash

• NO acidic cleaners (vinegar, lemon juice)
• NO caustic cleaners (bleach, ammonia)
• NO abrasive cleaners or implements (gritty cleaners, brushes, scrubbers, etc.)

While it’s easy to clean backsplash made of tin tile, there are a few ingredients to avoid. Although the powder coated finish on tin tile is strong, it can get run down or damaged by acidic cleaners like vinegar or lemon juice, as well as caustic ones like bleach or ammonia. Avoid these few extreme formulas, and when in doubt, you can always wipe down tin tile with simple water and mild soap.

Remediation: Tin Tile Cleaning Tips

• for mold, mildew, and tough stains, call a professional remediation specialist

If you're wondering how to clean old tin tile ceilings or backsplashes, the same principles apply. However, you may run into some tougher cleaning situations.

If you ever spot mold—which can occur when humidity is too high for long periods—check for more signs on the ceilings, walls, and floors. Don’t be afraid to call a mold inspector/removal professional to run mold tests and ensure there is no black mold or bigger issues at hand. They are pros at removing mold from delicate materials like vintage tin tiles. 

Tips for Maintaining & Cleaning Tin Backsplash

Seal Your Tin

All tin tile for the backsplash at American Tin Ceilings comes sealed (front and back). If you find that it needs a refresh, consider applying a sealant specifically designed for metal surfaces to protect the tin tiles and enhance their shine. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for application. 

Caulk Edges

Ensure that the area behind the tin tile backsplash remains clean by properly waterproofing to prevent moisture from getting behind the tiles and causing damage or corrosion that you can't see.

Inspect for Damage

Regularly inspect the tin tile backsplash for any signs of damage, such as dents, scratches, or loose tiles. Repair or replace damaged tiles as needed to maintain the overall appearance and integrity of the backsplash.

Avoid Impacts

Avoid bumping or banging objects against the tin backsplash, as this can cause dents or other damage. Consider installing a protective barrier such as a stove guard if the area is prone to accidental impacts.

Cleaning Frequency

Depending on factors such as cooking habits and environmental conditions, you may need to adjust the frequency of cleaning. If you cook frequently or if the backsplash is located in a high-traffic area, you may need to clean it more often to maintain its appearance.

Ventilation

Ensure proper ventilation in the kitchen to minimize the buildup of grease and cooking residues on the tin backsplash. Use exhaust fans or range hoods to help remove airborne particles and prevent them from settling on the surface.

If you’re looking to make a one-of-a-kind (and easy-to-clean) statement in your kitchen or bathroom, consider American Tin Ceilings’ wide assortment of tin tile backsplash designs and color finishes.