In this article, we will be explaining what is the best way to clean tile floors. A tile flooring is tough, and it can last a lifetime, the tiles themselves are pretty hard to crack. Most tiles are low-maintenance, stain-resistant, and scratch-resistant, and they will take whatever life throws at their surface.

Even so, sand and grit can be your tile floors’ biggest downfall. If not cleaned fast and efficiently, sand will eventually scratch the surface of your tiles and may result in permanent damage. Besides, dirty tiles can make an otherwise clean house look dirty. You want to take proper care of your tiles by keeping them clean while protecting their natural shine.

Below is a comprehensive guide on the best way to clean tile floors. We will also give you professional tips to keep the tiles and the grout looking new!

How Often Should I Clean Tile Floors

As a general rule of thumb, you should dry-clean, sweep, or vacuum your tile floors at least two times per week. This helps prevent dirt and dust build-up while eliminating the gritty debris that can darken the grout and dull the finish of the tiles.

Mopping or wet cleaning tile floors should be done every two weeks. Because bathroom tile floors easily accumulate grime and mold, they need a tad bit more attention and should be wet-cleaned once every week. Spot-cleaning of the grout should be done at least once every two months.

Cleaning Tile Floors- Requirements

• Vacuum cleaner or broom and dustpan
• Bucket
• Dry cloth
• Rag or chamois mops as they are super absorbent, making it easy and quick to clean
• Warm water
• Dishwashing soap or all-purpose cleaner

Instructions

How To Clean Ceramic and Porcelain Tile Floors

Porcelain and ceramic tiles are made from a clay mixture fired at high temperatures in a kiln. They are the two most common types of tiles, and unsurprisingly, they are a cinch to clean and maintain. Perhaps the biggest drawback of these tiles is that it’s pretty hard to notice grime build-up on the surface.

You will begin by removing all items that can get in your way while cleaning, like shoes, movable furniture, etc. The good news is that you can use nearly any type of cleaner, including white vinegar to clean ceramic and porcelain tile floors without scratching them or losing their shine.

• Step 1: Sweep the entire room using a microfiber duster (it picks up dirt easily). Pay keen attention to the corners where dust and dirt tend to pile up.
• Step 2: Mix your all-purpose cleaner or any other type of cleaner with warm water.
• Step 3: Dip the rag or chamois mop into the warm cleaning solution. Wring out the excess water so that the rag is damp and not soaking.
• Step 4: Gently run the mop/rug over the floor in an even ‘S’ pattern. Move the mop in one direction without retracing the already cleaned areas and ensure that not an inch of the tile floor gets missed.
• Step 5: Change the water as soon as it starts getting dirty, and consider refilling the bucket with clean water as you move to clean a new room. This helps avoid leaving cloudy films of grime on the tiles. If you notice a cloudly film after cleaning, prepare a mixture of vinegar and warm water and run a damp mop over the tiles to get rid of the film.
• Step 6: To clean the grout, you’ll need a cleaner specifically made for grout cleaning. Spray the cleaner on the grout and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing it off. Alternatively, you can prepare a bleach solution and use it in the same way as a grout cleaner.
• Step 7: The final step is to dry the floor completely with a soft, clean cloth immediately after mopping. This is especially important for tiles that tend to form water spots.

How To Clean Vinyl or Linoleum Tile Floors

Besides being low-costing flooring materials, vinyl or linoleum tile floors are both durable and stable. They are also water-resistant and quite easy to clean. Like ceramic tile floors, they also require proper maintenance to enhance longevity.

Because vinyl and linoleum tile floors cannot withstand the heat and moisture of a steam mop, you’ll need to clean them in the following ways:

• Linoleum- start by sweeping to eliminate as much dust, dirt, and debris as possible. Use a cleaning solution specifically designed for linoleum flooring to clean the entire surface. Suppose you don’t have a linoleum flooring cleaner? In that case, you can mix borax with water and clean your linoleum tile floors. Consider applying a coat of wax on the flooring and buffing it every four months to maintain its shine.
• Vinyl- Sweep the floor and mop with a cleaning solution recommended for vinyl flooring. Alternatively, you can use a solution of water and vinegar. Avoid using abrasive cleaners as they can scratch the floor.

How To Clean Marble Tile Floors

Natural stone tiles are an elegant choice for your floors. Besides transforming your room, they also have a natural ‘wow’ factor that instantly impresses your guests. When it comes to your ideal finish, you’re spoilt for choice as these tile floors can have multiple finishes, including polished, honed, brushed, and tumbled.

Marble and other natural stone tiles are easy to clean. In fact, you’ll clean them in a similar way as ceramic tiles, with the only difference being:

• These tiles are more vulnerable to scratching than ceramic and porcelain tiles. Hence you’ll need to use a more soft-bristled broom when sweeping.
• Slate and marble tiles can discolor when cleaned with an acidic cleaner like vinegar. Hence, you’ll have to use a mild detergent with a neutral PH when cleaning. Consider getting a cleaner recommended for your type of natural stone tiles.