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How to Clean Different Tile Materials
Have you ever just zoned out in a blank stare down with a couple of dirty tiles while you shower in the morning? Going over every cleaning method you’ve tried in your head that has brought you and your tile to this arrestingly defeated moment. There are a lot of ways to clean the tile in your home, some good and some not so good. It seems like everyone has a different recommended “best way” to clean your tile, so it won’t be much of a surprise that we do too! Luckily, we’ve been in the business of cleaning tile and grout for over 45 years, and we’re happy to share our expertise with you.
Common Tile Cleaning Mistakes
If you aren’t careful, things could go very wrong when attempting to make your tile glisten again. There are so many different products on the market claiming to be the cure all for all of your tile cleaning needs, making it difficult to pick the correct one. Not to mention that there are a surprising amount of variables involved when deciding what methods and products to use on your tile. Do you have ceramic tile or natural stone? Is it sealed or unsealed? Are you more concerned with the grout lines? Are you or your family allergic to certain chemicals… on and on and on. Knowing what you are cleaning and how the method of cleaning will react to your type of tile can be an enormous factor when trying to effectively get your tile looking great again. Please note that we always recommend consulting a professional about the best way to clean your tile and grout. Better safe than sorry!
How to Clean Natural Stone
If you are dealing with natural stone or slate, then you will want to make sure to use something very mild. With natural stone tiles, you will want to make sure not to use any harsh chemicals. To be completely honest, you are safest simply using hot water with very light agitation and nothing too abrasive.
How to Clean Ceramic Tile
My friend, you are in luck! If you are trying to clean your ceramic or porcelain tile, then you have so many more options available to you. That being said, this can also be a problem though. There are a lot of great cleaning products on the market for you to bring back the shine to your tile. You can use anything from soapy water, vinegar, oxygenated bleach (OxiClean), citrus cleaners and more. Now, not all of them will be the best product for you to use in your given situation, but you’ve got options. Ceramic tiles are going to be some of the more durable cleaning surfaces allowing you to use a wider variety of cleaning options without damaging or losing their shine. One of the safest options we recommend when trying to tackle something on your own would be a simple cleaning using vinegar on your tile with regular scrubbing, but nothing too aggressive. This mild cleaning method will handle most jobs, and regular maintenance of your tile.
Cleaning Products to Use on Tile Surfaces
Now when dealing with more difficult buildup on your tile, you may want to turn to some more potent solutions. Products like bleach, while very effective at disinfecting and removing a lot of grime, can be toxic and noxious to you and your family. When you have some really tough cleaning situations try an oxygenated bleach product instead of a standard bleach. They will be much more friendly and environmentally safe when dissolved with water. One thing to be cautious of though, is using a cleaner like OxiClean AFTER using vinegar to clean your tile. Hydrogen peroxide is found in many of these oxygenated bleach products, and when combined with vinegar can create a dangerous reaction forming peracetic acid. This is VERY VERY BAD. Always rinse your tile clean of other products before using one of these strong products.
Play It Safe When Cleaning Your Tile!
You could try any of these options to clean your tile after figuring out what is best for your situation, or you can make it super easy and just call Modernistic. Our team has been at this longer than the lifespan of some tile floors. We have an array of cleaning products and methods in our arsenal ready to take care of whatever situation you may have. Don’t hesitate to give us a call and schedule an appointment today so you don’t have to deal with it all by yourself! The tile and grout pros at Modernistic have been helping Michigan homeowners with their tile cleaning needs for over 45 years! Call or click today if you have tile and grout cleaning questions. Make it Simple & Quick!