How to Clean Tiled Floors Properly
Most people prefer ceramic tiled floors over carpeted floors because they’re supposedly easier to clean, but you still need to practice proper cleaning methods to keep them looking new for years.
Sweep and vacuum regularly
Sweeping and vacuuming daily will keep most of the dirt from hardening and eventually damaging the tiles. Although ceramic tiles are resistant to dirt, they still tend to get dull over time from scratches and caked dirt.
Spot-testing is important
If you’re using a commercial cleaning product for the first time, it’s a good idea to spot test it first to see its effects on the tiles. Mix it with clean, warm water then mop a dampened rag on a small portion of the tiles. Leave the rag on the tile for a few hours then come back later to check.
Use mild detergent
If you decide to mop the tiles after sweeping and vacuuming, use a detergent that’s made for cleaning tiles, preferably something that’s mildly acidic and non-abrasive. You could also substitute a chamois-type rag or a sponge instead of the usual mop. Make sure to clean the mop itself and change the water regularly so it doesn’t leave a soapy residue on the tiles.
Don’t forget to rinse
Most people will just mop the tiled floors with soapy water and leave it to dry, but that practice will leave a film of residue that will make the tiles look dull. You should rinse the tiles with clean water then buff with a dry mop or clean cloth.
Use baking soda on the grout
The grout is the porous material in between the tiles that can absorb stains and grease. To clean this part, create a mixture of water and baking soda then rub it on hard-to-remove stains and let it sit overnight. Then scrub it with a nylon brush to remove the stain before sealing the grout with a silicone-based sealer.
Focus on stains
Tiled floor in the kitchen are prone to stains that can be difficult to remove. Make sure to clean up any spilled food or drink immediately because they will be much easier to remove while still fresh. Mix mild detergent in warm water for cleaning stains and blot the surface with a hydrogen peroxide-dampened rag. This method is effective on tea, coffee, and juice stains.
Remove odor using vinegar
If the stain left a stink on the tiles, you can use a mixture of a cup of white vinegar in a gallon of warm water to remove the smell. Do not use harsh chemicals or deodorizers to remove the stink because that will just add another layer of scent.
Use safe detergent on countertops
What about the tiled countertops? Kitchen countertops should be cleaned differently than the tiled floors. Detergent for tiled floors can be unsafe for food preparation; therefore, you should use commercial cleaners designed for kitchen countertops.