Tile Cleaning Tips
There are various types of tiles, each made from unique materials, that require different care.
Like all flooring, tiling requires specific cleaning methods to preserve the tiles and keep the space pristine. Not knowing how to clean tiles can make the task seem overwhelming, but the process can be simplified in a few steps. Follow these tips to learn the basics of tile maintenance.
Know the type of tile
There are various types of tiles, each made from unique materials, that require different care. It's essential to research the type of tile and how to care for it, as some tiles may need specific cleaning solutions. Porcelain and ceramic tiles are the most common, as they're durable and easy to clean and maintain.
Regular maintenance
Don't wait for tiles to become dirty to clean them, as this causes dirt, dust, and stains to accumulate, which could eventually turn into mold or mildew. Create a regular cleaning schedule to avoid making the cleaning process strenuous. Plan to repeat this process 1 to 3 times per week, depending on the amount of foot traffic.
To do a basic round of cleaning, start by sweeping the tile floors with a dust mop to clean off loose dirt and dust. Avoid straw brooms, as they could scratch the tiles. Then, mop the floor with warm water in an even pattern to avoid missing any spots. Once complete, dry the tiles off by damp mopping or wiping them with an absorbent cloth. Perform this process once or twice weekly, depending on the foot traffic the tiles experience.
Cleaning the grout
Grout is the hard fluid that fills the space between tiles and holds them in place. Grout has small pores where bacteria and dirt can hide, requiring more extensive cleaning measures; however, grout usually only needs to be cleaned once per year.
The most thorough and cost-friendly way to clean grout is by hand. Scrubbing may seem tedious, but it's the most effective way to ensure the cleaning product reaches the grout's pores. Specific brushes for cleaning grout can be purchased at most hardware stores, along with grout cleaning solutions. Try baking soda, vinegar, salt, lemon juice, hydrogen peroxide, and borax for natural alternatives.
A slightly less thorough but easier grout-cleaning option is steam cleaning, which helps to break down and extract dust and dirt particles within the grout. Steam cleaning is ideal for large spaces where hand-cleaning the grout may take too much time. Grout steam cleaners can be purchased for frequent use or rented from a hardware store for occasional use, but be sure it has an attachment specifically for cleaning grout.
For cleanliness and maintaining good condition, tiles must be cleaned regularly. Maintaining tiles can often be more manageable than other types of flooring, especially with these simple steps.
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