How To Keep Floor Tiles Clean
If you have chosen floor tiles instead of carpet in your home, you will want to keep the ‘wow’ factor they inspire for as long as possible. Here are our top tips to keep them clean.
2 minute read
Ceramic Floor Tiles
Ceramic floor tiles should be cleaned with a soft cloth and a mild detergent solution. Cream cleaners and abrasive agents should be avoided. It is important to repair any cracks in the grout, to prevent any water seeping underneath the tiles. Rinse thoroughly afterwards with clean water.
Limestone Tiles
Regular cleaning is strongly recommended as limestone is a natural material and staining may occur if spills are left too long. Ideally floors should be dry dust mopped daily to remove dirt and grit. A sealant will protect the floor from most stains but care must still be taken, particularly with oil and acid based products. From time to time it may be necessary to scrub the floor with a stiff bristle to remove dirt, which will have accumulated in the pores.
Cork Tiles
Regular maintenance will keep your cork floor looking beautiful and assure its long life, even under heavy use. Keep the floor surface free from dirt and grit using a well wrung out damp mop. Clean up spills and excess water immediately. Placing felt pads or castor cups under furniture is recommended to prevent indentations in the tiles. You can further protect your flooring by placing mats in entrances in order to keep dirt and moisture from coming in contact with the floor.
Porcelain Tiles
Porcelain tiles are easily kept clean by sweeping and then mopping with warm water to which a neutral or nearly neutral detergent has been added. The cleaning solution should remain on the floor for 5 to 15 minutes to allow it to penetrate the dirt after which it should be removed by rinsing thoroughly with clean water. Cream cleaners and abrasive agents should always be avoided.
Basalt Tiles
A quick once-over with a neutral (pH7) cleaner is sufficient for general maintenance. All cleaning agents need time [normally 10-15 minutes] to emulsify any dirt, after which the floor should be thoroughly rinsed with clean water.
Long handled deck scrubbers are often recommended as opposed to mops, particularly on tiles that have been created with a slip‑resistant finish.
*How To articles are intended as advice only. Please refer to your completion documents for specific information on lease and covenant restrictions and maintenance of your home.*
