Karen asks: We have vinyl tile in our bathroom. A family member struggles with incontinence at times, and there is a dark brown stain around the toilet. I think if may be due to urine/feces being on the floor. Is there any way to remove the stain without damaging the tile? The rest of the floor is fine; it’s this one area that is the problem.

You Will Need

Rubber Gloves
Paper Towels
Broom
Vinegar, 1 cup
1 Gallon bucket
Liquid Dish Washing Detergent, 2 tsp.
Warm Water
Long Spoon
Brush with soft bristles
Abrasive Sponge
Multiple Washcloths
Rubbing Alcohol
Baking Soda

Steps

Wearing the rubber gloves, pick up any excess urine and feces with the paper towels
and dispose of properly. The gloves will help to protect against bacteria.

Sweep the area with the broom to rid it of any excess dirt and dust. This will
ensure you have the most direct access to any stains.

Mix together the cup of vinegar, the dish washing detergent, and warm water in a
bucket. Stir with the long spoon, and be careful not to create too many suds.

Dip the soft bristled brush into the mixture, and scrub the stain. Then, rinse with
clean water. If there is still a stain, use the more abrasive method described next.

Mix equal parts water and baking soda to create a paste. Spread the paste over the
stained area and allow to set for 10 to 15 minutes.

Scrub with the abrasive sponge, then wipe clean with a dry cloth.

Finally, scrub the area with a clean cloth soaked in rubbing alcohol.

Additional Tips and Advice

Remove the stain as soon as possible, as letting it sit for too long may ruin your floor.
Just for the sake of clarity, never mix bleach and vinegar. Using bleach on your floor
is OK, but be sure to NOT add vinegar, as it will create a chlorine gas