Dos and Donts of Tile Cleaning

Tiles are the prime choice when it comes to functionality and design. Whether you’re redecorating your bathroom or looking for a new backsplash for your kitchen, you can’t go wrong with this material. Aside from its durability, it is also easy to clean compared to bare cement.

But not all homeowners know how to maintain their tiles. Just like wood, carpet, or laminate flooring, tiles are made with different components, which means that the cleaning method is also different. To ensure that they always look brand new, you can follow the dos and don’ts of tile cleaning. Keep on reading!

Sweep Floors Regularly
Even though tiles are low-maintenance, you need to sweep them regularly to prevent dust from sticking to the surface. Even if tiles resist dust, grit can make them dull.

Compared to a monthly deep-clean, daily cleaning is easier to manage.

All you need is to whip out your broom or plug in your vacuum and get rid of the contaminants for a few minutes. Use a soft-bristled attachment to gently clean your tiles and smaller ones for tight corners.

Mop From Time To Time
For residential homeowners, mopping your floors at least twice a week is recommended. Commercial establishments with heavier foot traffic might need to do this more to prevent the buildup of germs. Other than that, you may need to spot clean if you notice stains on your tiles.

When mopping, avoid using sponge types as these can make dirt accumulate on the grout. Instead, use rags or a traditional chamois-type mop. After mopping, wipe delicate tiles such as slate with a dry cloth to prevent water spots.

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Don’t Use Abrasive Cleansers
Aside from plain water, you might be tempted to use chemical cleaners to get rid of tough stains. But these can ruin the tile surface instead of cleaning them. Steer free from soaps because they leave behind a residue that can get slippery when wet.

Instead, opt for a pH-neutral cleanser. Use soapless detergents that are mild enough to protect the appearance of your tiles. When doing these, stick to mops and rags and avoid using steel wool.

Don’t Forget To Clean The Grout
If you have a sealed grout, cleaning it will be easy. But for older ones, you might need to reseal them or replace them with a more durable product. In this case, you should avoid steam cleaning because it can introduce moisture which can damage your tiles.

For grouts in great condition, you can make a DIY cleaner. Simply mix baking soda and water, letting it sit on stains overnight. Scrub with a soft-bristled brush and you’re good to go.

Prevent Water From Pooling
Prevent water from pooling on your tile floorings. Aside from mold, this can loosen the grout and lift your tiles, causing damage. To protect them from moisture, you can use a rag or squeegee to get rid of the water.

If you want to prevent water damage, utilize the proper tile material for each room. For bathrooms and kitchens, it is recommended to use an impervious tile. Compared to non-vitreous ones, these only absorb up to 0.5% of water. One example is porcelain tiles.

Maintain It With Periodic Resealing
If you want to avoid costly repair jobs, it is also recommended to maintain your tiles with periodic resealing. The grout is made of porous material and stains easily over time. When exposed to humidity, it can flake and break down. Once you vacuum them, you will notice that pieces will be missing. This can soon lead to tile damage.

With resealed grout, you will have an easier time cleaning your tiles. This can stop dirt from getting underneath it and repel moisture that can cause mold and mildew.

Consider Mats For Preventive Maintenance
No matter how often you clean your tiles, you can’t prevent them from getting dirty from time to time. That’s why it is a good idea to think about preventative maintenance. Aside from resealing the grouts and choosing impervious tiles, consider placing mats at entryways.

This way, you can limit the dust and dirt that will come in contact with your tiles. When choosing mats, always go for high-quality and durable materials. Opt for a product with non-slip features to prevent accidents.

Keep Extra Tiles After Installation
If you don’t properly take care of your tiles with the simple steps above, they might get damaged over time. Neglecting cracked floorings can worsen the state of your tiles as well as put people at risk of accidents.

If you’re planning on a tile renovation soon, the extra tiles can come in handy in case of repairs. This can save you money and energy in the future when you need to replace a small portion of your flooring.

Key Takeaway
Tiles are one of the go-to when it comes to renovating bathrooms and kitchens. Many homeowners use these versatile materials because they are easy to clean. Just remember the dos and don’ts so you can prolong their life for years to come.