How To Deep Clean Tile Floors
Tile floors are primarily found in areas such as bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms, but they can often be found throughout the entire home, especially in tropical locales. Not only do tile floors help keep a home cooler during hot months, they're also easy to clean and disinfect. When your tile floors are sparkling, your entire home will feel cleaner. There are several different types of tile - such as ceramic, travertine and marble - so make sure to use the proper cleaning techniques and products to avoid damage.
When it's time to deep-clean your home's tile flooring, keep these tips in mind:
1. Remove Dirt, Dust and Debris First
It's important to remove any dirt, dust and debris on a regular basis, as larger pieces can scratch and damage the tile. You'll also want to remove it prior to deep cleaning. The most effective way to remove these particles with with a vacuum cleaner set on the hard floor surface setting. If you don't have a vacuum, you can also sweep the dirt, dust and debris up using a broom and a dust pan.
To keep the amount of particles that reach your tile floor at a minimum, consider placing rugs at all of your home's entryways, either directly inside or outside the doors.
2. Consider the Type of Tile
Before beginning to deep clean your floor, it's important to determine what type of tile flooring you have. If the tiles are made of natural materials, such as limestone, travertine or marble, you'll need to give them special attention as they're more prone to damage. You'll need to use cleaning products that are designed specifically for use on your tile type.
For instance, you can use a general-purpose cleaner, such mild dish soap, on most ceramic tiles. For porcelain tile, an alkaline-based cleaner is recommended. Follow the manufacturers' labels and dilute the cleaners with water as needed.
3. Remove Grime with the Proper Tool
For smooth-surfaced tiles, such as porcelain and ceramic, you can use a soft cotton mop dipped into the cleaning solution to remove dirt and grime. You may need to go over some areas more than once to fully remove stubborn marks and stains. Give the tile a final rinse of plain water and allow it to thoroughly dry before walking on it.
If you have naturally textured tiles, you may need to follow up with a gentle, soft-bristled brush. Dip the brush into the appropriate cleaning solution and work it into the tile's nooks and crannies for a deep clean.
For hard-to remove, caked-on messes, consider using an electric scrubber if it's recommended for your tile type. To learn more, contact a company like All American Stone & Tile Care Inc. with any questions.
