For areas in the home such as kitchens and bathrooms that might get wet from time to time, tiles are an excellent choice of floor covering.  But with high foot traffic your beautiful new tiles slowly become ‘old’ tiles. In order to keep your tile flooring in the best possible condition and looking like new for years, follow the tile cleaning tips below.

    1. Remove loose dirt and crumbs daily by either sweeping or vacuuming.  This will prevent dirt from sitting in wet areas and turning into grime which is difficult to remove.
    2. Mop your tiles on a regular basis to remove surface stains and dirt.  Before mopping your tile floor, sweep or vacuum. Use warm water and clean the mop in fresh water after mopping each section.  After mopping, run a dry cloth or mop over the floor to prevent new dirt from accumulating.
    3. Attend to spills promptly.  The longer spills are left to sit, the more time they will have to soak into the grout.  Use disinfectant to clean dirtier spills such as meat juices or pet accidents.  Disinfectant can be sprayed directly onto the spill and wiped up with a damp cloth.

  1. For a deeper clean, mix ½ a cup of vinegar with 4 litres of warm water and mop as usual (but don’t use vinegar on marble flooring).  If necessary, repeat the mopping process with clean water and detergent.  Finish by mopping with fresh water to ensure all residual soap – this will ensure the residue doesn’t remain on the tiles to attract and hold dirt.
  2. Spot clean stains by making a paste mixture.  Use a 50/50 ratio of scouring powder and warm water, rub the paste on the stain and allow to sit for five minutes.  Using a soft brush, scrub the area and then use a cloth and warm water to remove all remnants of the paste.  Repeat the process if the stain is still visible.
  3. Don’t allow mildew to accumulate on bathroom floors.  Air out the room after showers and ensure floors are kept dry. Use a 50/50 mixture of ammonia and water to clean any mildew that does accumulate, always making sure that the room is well ventilated.  Use a soft brush and the ammonia solution to clean the affected area, then rinse thoroughly with clean water.
  4. To remove rust stains from tile floors use a clean cloth dampened with kerosene.  Protect your hands using rubber gloves and use the rag to rub the stain.  Repeat the process if the stain is not completely gone and rinse with plenty of water.
  5. Get your tile floors and grout professionally cleaned on a regular basis to maintain shine and lustre

 

Following these tips to maintain your tile floors will ensure your tiling looks like new for years.

Originally posted 2016-05-21 06:48:44.