Do
- Do sweep or vacuum floor areas prior to cleaning to remove any dust or debris.
- Do test scouring powders and sealants on a small area prior to full application.
- Do use a sealer on grout joints shortly after installation and use products compatible with cleaning grout joints.
- Do rinse entire area with clear water after cleaning to remove any cleaning solution residue.
Don’t
- Do not use cleaners containing acid or bleach for routine maintenance (see below for recommended cleaners).
- Do not use wax based cleaners, oil-based detergents or sealants to maintain your tile (sealants may be used on grout joints).
- Do not use harsh cleaning aids like steel wool pads or any scouring pads containing metal.
After Installation: Care
Glazed, unglazed, stone, glass and soft clay tiles may require different cleaning agents. Clean glazed tile products regularly with an all-purpose, non-oil-based household or commercial cleaner which is also grout-joint-cleaning-compatible. Multipurpose spray cleaners for everyday use will remove soap scum, hard water deposits, and mildew and can be used on wall tile areas in residential baths and showers. You should clean unglazed tile with concentrated tile cleaners that have a neutral pH for safe regular use. These are better able to removing grease, oils and normal spills from unglazed products (these products may also vary depending on application, use and amount of traffic). For routine cleaning of glass tile, use any non-abrasive cleaning compound recommended for either glass or tile.
Once-a-Week Mopping
Damp-mop your ceramic floor a minimum of once each week, more frequently for heavy traffic areas. (Wait at least 72 hours after initial installation before mopping or cleaning to so new tile and grout can dry adequately.) This will decrease wear and abrasion from grit and soil. Do not use detergents, soaps, or any of the chemicals listed above.
Floor Mats Protect Your Floors
High-quality floor mats at entrances and exits are key to reducing tile wear. They collect and trap all the corrosive substances that can be tracked in from outdoors, including dirt, sand, grit, oil, asphalt, or even driveway sealer. Also use mats in areas of constant pressure, such as in front of vanities, kitchen sinks and stoves.
Protective Pads On Furniture -- A Good Idea
Attach felt or similar protective pads to all furniture legs, including outdoor metal furniture that rests on tile floors or patios, as it may rust and cause staining.What should I use to clean my tile floors?
We sell and recommend a variety of effective products that are safe for use. It’s important to avoid using general cleaners not specifically designed for natural stone, ceramic/porcelain tile or grout. Some of these general cleaners (i.e. off the shelf bathroom, tile and grout cleaners) may contain harmful chemicals that may damage natural stone as stone is sensitive to certain chemicals. Miracle Sealants Cleaners, one line we recommend, are specifically designed for cleaning Natural Stone, Ceramic/Porcelain Tile & Grout.If you have questions about which products to use in your home, give us a call or stop by our showroom.
