How to Clean Tile and GroutEducational information for your flooring needs.

How to Clean Tile Flooring

The first thing you want to remember when looking for the best way to clean your ceramic or porcelain tile floors is that routine care and maintenance is important. This includes sweeping or vacuuming regularly to remove dirt and debris before it has a chance to get embedded in the tile or grout. Here are some additional tips and tricks on how to properly clean your tile floors:

• Do not use a straw broom that will scratch the surface of the tiles.
• Use a rag or chamois type mop instead of a sponge mop as they tend to push dirty water into the grout lines and could make them harder to clean.
• Mop the floor with warm water on a regular basis and be sure to dry it right afterwards to avoid any new dirt from quickly setting into wet areas and becoming hard-to-remove later.
• For a deep clean, check with the manufacturer or your local home improvement store for the best cleaning solution so you don't risk damaging the tiles.

 

How to Clean Kitchen Backsplash Tile

Backsplash designs have definitely evolved but their function remains the same - to protect your wall and make it easier to clean up splatters from the stove. Those stove splatters can build up overtime and make your once desired focal point an eyesore. It is important to note that different backsplash materials require different cleaning techniques and solutions, and it is always advised that you check with the manufacturer for the right cleaners to use. Here are a few additional things to consider when cleaning your tile backsplash:

• Always blot away grease or food splatters as soon as it happens (when possible); the longer those splatters and stains sit, the harder they will be to remove later.
• Clean the backsplash regularly with some warm water to help soften the grime followed by a quick wipe down of the area with a sponge soaked in soapy warm water.
• For a deep clean, use the manufacturer recommended chemical solution that is safe for your tile and grout. You should typically let the solution sit on the backsplash for 5-15 minutes depending on the amount of grease on the surface. Use a soft-bristle brush or sponge to finish cleaning the area.
• Always dry backsplashes after cleaning to avoid any water streaks or mildew growth.

 

How to Clean Shower Tile

Between the everyday use and the naturally damp environment, shower tile can become very unsightly and even bad for your health. Thankfully, cleaning shower tile is simple but could take a bit of time depending on the amount of dirt present and size of the shower. Here are the best ways to clean your shower tile:

• Mix equal parts distilled white vinegar and water and spray the solution on the shower tiles.
• Let sit for 5-15 minutes depending on the amount of soap scum or mildew present and use a soft-bristle brush or sponge to scrub the area and rinse with warm water. *Note: do not use vinegar on natural stone tile.
• For a deeper clean, make a thick paste with 1-part water and 3-parts baking soda and apply the paste with a sponge. Spray the tile with the above vinegar solution. Use a soft-bristle brush or sponge to scrub the area and rinse with warm water.

Here are a few tips for how to maintain the beauty and cleanliness of your bathroom tile:

• After showering, leave the bathroom door, shower door/curtain and window open (if possible) to help reduce the humidity and minimize mold, mildew and the build-up of germs.
• Always leave bars of soap on a dish, never directly on the tile.
• Refrain from shower products that might dye the grout.
• Try keeping shower products elevated with a shower caddy or a shelf with drainage so excess water can run off.

 

How to Clean Tile Grout

Grout is a porous substance that easily absorbs dirt, dust and grease and is thus prone to staining, soiling, and mold growth. Sealing the grout will help protect against all these things and it is recommended you re-seal grout every few years. Make sure you talk with your contractor about a sealer that is recommended for your tile.

Here is the best way to clean grout on a regular basis:

• Apply hot water to remove any surface dirt and grime before you spray on your grout cleaning solution.
• Apply your cleaning solution or make your own by combining 1-part water with 3-parts baking soda. After applying the paste to the grout, spray with a 1-part water and 1-part distilled white vinegar solution. *Note: do not use vinegar on natural stone tile.
• Let the cleaning solution sit on the surface for about 5-15 minutes depending on the level of grime, or if using the vinegar solution, wait until the solution stops bubbling.
• Scrub the grout with a soft brush (like a toothbrush) and rinse with hot water.

 

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