The answer to 'why is my tile odor' is that tile and grout can develop unpleasant odors for several common reasons. These include mold and mildew growth, trapped dirt and debris, and bacteria buildup. The symptoms may include a musty, sour, or ammonia-like smell coming from the tile.
To address a tile odor, you'll first want to inspect the tile and grout closely to identify the root cause. If it's mold or mildew, you'll need to thoroughly clean and disinfect the affected areas. Trapped dirt and debris can usually be removed with a thorough deep cleaning. Stubborn odors may require the use of specialized tile and grout cleaners or even professional steam cleaning services.