Tile and grout are popular flooring choices due to their durability and resilience to damage. But over time, the gathered dirt, debris, and stains can take away their shine and make them look dull.
So it is necessary to care for your tiled floors by cleaning them properly. In this article, we have listed the dos and don’ts of tile and grout cleaning to help preserve the shine of your flooring and prevent any damage.
Tile & Grout Cleaning: Do’s
1. Address Spills Immediately
We have seen many good tiled floors ruined due to stains. So, if you notice a spill on your tiles, clean it without a moment’s delay. Blot the area with a clean cloth to remove extra liquid. Then, spray a 1:1 solution of white vinegar and water on the stain. Wipe the solution gently after a few minutes and dry the tiles.
2. Seal The Grout
Unsealed grouts are prone to damage from water and dirt. So, we recommend sealing the grout lines with a high-quality grout sealant. It will keep water, stains, dirt, and grime away and prevent mold infestation and bacterial growth. Regularly check the sealing on grout and reapply it every one to two years.
3. Use Gentle Cleaning Solutions
Tiled floors are strong and durable. Still, you should use a mild cleaning solution while cleaning them to prevent permanent staining. You can use homemade cleaners made of vinegar, lemon juice, baking soda, and dishwashing soap.
If you want something new, try store-bought cleaners like Grout-Eez or Microban 24 hours. But before using any of these cleaners, test them on small, hidden areas to prevent future issues.
4. Sweep/ Vacuum Regularly
The best way to maintain the look of tiled surfaces is to clean them regularly. So vacuum and mop them daily to remove the loose dirt and dust from the surface. It will prevent dirt from scratching the surfaces and ruining the look of tiles and grouts. But avoid using a vacuum’s beater bar on tiled floors, as that can result in scratches.
Check out some more tile and grout cleaning tips and tricks.
Tile & Grout Cleaning: Don’ts
1. Use Abrasive Objects
We have seen many homeowners make the mistake of using sharp objects to clean tiled floors. Instead of removing the stains, tools like steel wool end up damaging the finish of the surface. So avoid using them when you are cleaning any type of tiled floor. You can use mops with microfiber cloths or sponge mops for damage-free cleaning.
2. Let The Moisture Sit
Letting the moisture sit on your tile and grout is another big No. It can seep between the grout lines and lead to damage and mold growth. Uncleaned water underneath tiles can also become a breeding ground for bacteria.
So dry the water from tiled surfaces as soon as possible. Use an absorbent cloth to wipe off the excess liquid, turn on the fans, and open the windows to ensure complete water removal.
3. Use Bleach
Our experts advise against using bleach to deep clean tile and grout. It is a very corrosive liquid that can damage the tiled surfaces forever if used in greater quantities. Instead, you can use the alternatives discussed earlier in the blog.
4. Neglect Deep Cleaning
Avoiding deep cleaning the tile and grout for too long can make the tiles dull and turn the grout black. It may even lead to cracked tiles that can cost you a lot to replace. To prevent that, deep clean tile floors and grout at least twice a month if you have a busy home. Maintaining a regular cleaning schedule will help keep your tiled floors looking pristine for longer.
