Cleaning Your Tile Floors Without Ruining Them
Put down that bottle of bleach and read this first!
Different types of tile absorb stains differently, therefore a one-size-fits-all approach does not work here. Read on about how to clean tile, from marble and ceramic to porcelain and vinyl.
Natural stone, i.e. marble and granite: Keep it simple and flush with water first. This type of tile is incredibly porous and soaks up an abundance of whatever it comes into contact with, including cleaning products. Using a gentle cleaning soap (dish soap and water) and avoiding acidic ingredients is best practice here. Ensure the stain is gone before you allow the area to dry. It is also recommended to vacuum daily to keep dirt and dust from damaging these tiles.
Linoleum and vinyl: A diluted vinegar solution is all you need! Use a damp mop, not soaked, so water doesn’t leak between the tiles.
Ceramic: Most cleaning sprays work here, as well as mopping up the tiles with a mixture of dish soap and warm soapy water.
Porcelain: Similar to ceramic tiles, mop up with a mixture of dish soap of warm soapy water, and avoid any harsh household cleaners.
Cement and Limestone: Very porous materials, they require consistent vacuuming and mopping with dish soap and water . If these tiles are outdoors, a powerwasher or a dry bristled brush can help remove stubborn stains.
Is this all you ever wanted to know and more about cleaning tiles? Have you ruined any in your home and lived to tell the tale?