Tips for Cleaning Tiles

It can be a homeowner’s nightmare to walk into the bathroom and see dull tiles, thin films of soap scum, and dark grout lines stained with mildew. The expectation of a sore back and knees, tired hands, and burned nostrils from chemical cleaners can make the chore of cleaning tile a daunting task, resulting in procrastination and even dirtier and harder to clean tile. By following these tips you can keep up with maintaining beautiful and clean tile.

One of the most important tips in keeping tile looking new is to consistently clean them. Maintaining your tile on a regular basis will not only prevent dirt to build up to discouraging levels but will also help build a habit of keeping them clean. Sweeping your tile floors every day will keep dust and dirt from accumulating in the corners and building up.

It is also important to mop your tile floors once a week to keep them shiny. There’s no need to buy an expensive commercial cleaner when a homemade solution will make your tile sparkle just as well. A mix 1/2 cup of ammonia, 1/2 cup of baking soda, and 1 gallon of warm water will have your tile looking brand new. It is important to note, never mix ammonia with bleach and make sure the ammonia solution is completely evaporated before adding any other cleaner to the floor. It is important to dry the floor after mopping to avoid any new dirt from settling on the wet spots.

If your tile still looks dull or spotty it might be time to perform a deep clean. Mix equal parts scouring powder and water and rub the mixture into the spots and stains. Let the solution sit for 10 minutes and then scrub the area with a scouring brush. After removing the stain, rinse with warm water and wipe up with a dry cloth.

If your grout is dark and mildewy your floors will continue to look gross no matter how clean your tile is. Luckily, cleaning your grout is as easy as your tile. A good home solution is 2 cups of warm water, 2 cups bleach, and 1 tablespoon of dish soap. Put the mix into a spray bottle for easy application. Spray the solution on any mold or mildew stains and let it sit for about 15 minutes. Then use a scrub brush, or toothbrush, to remove the dirt and rinse with warm water. After your grout is beautifully bright it might be a good idea to invest in sealing your grout with grout sealant. This will keep water from collecting and causing mold and mildew growth. Be aware that grout sealer does need to be reapplied at least once a year to keep water from seeping in.

And that’s it. As long as you maintain a regular cleaning schedule and follow these tips not only will your tile be beautifully spotless but the chore of cleaning your tile will be a little less intimidating.