Top 5 Tile and Grout Cleaning and Maintenance Tips

 

Top 5 Tile and Grout Cleaning and Maintenance Tips

You must first determine the type of material you are working with, whether it is Ceramic, Porcelain, or one of the many different Natural Stones (Limestone, Marble, Travertine etc).

This post only relates to Ceramic & Porcelain, but don't worry, we'll have one for the many varieties of natural stones in our next blog, outlining how to preserve and re-seal these materials.

First, you need to know that there are two types of sealers that are typically used on tile and grout:

-A penetrating sealer which is absorbed by the pores of the material and will not change the appearance of the surface.

-A topical sealer which sits on top of the surface and can change the appearance of the surface if it is a different color than the tile.

Let's get this party started:

Regular maintenance - Just like anything else in life, the more you take care of it, the less likely it is to break down. Create a cleaning schedule to guarantee you're providing your tiles with the care they require.

Allow no time for dirt or spills to settle - Cleaning any dirt or spills as soon as possible will prevent them from sinking deeper into the tile or leaving stains, especially with ceramic tiles, which are more porous. (A porous substance is one that readily absorbs fluids.)

Get some assistance - Cleaning any spill with hot water, soap, and a mop/cloth is the easiest way to remove it, and be sure to vacuum or dust any loose materials before they get into your grout lines. If you're concerned about detergent chemicals, mixing white vinegar with warm water in the ratio of one part vinegar to four parts water is a fantastic option. Acidic cleaning products are not advised since they might cause grout attack and haze of glazed tiles.

Cleaning the grout — Grout is generally the first region to become dirty, and it is also the most difficult to clean, especially if it is a light-colored grout. Mix one part hydrogen peroxide with two parts baking soda to make a paste, then distribute it with a grout brush or toothbrush and let it sit for about 10 minutes. Start scrubbing until it's set, and then wipe it away with warm water and a rag once it's finished.

Seal it - Whether it's the grout or the tile, sealing it extends the life and improves the appearance. If you choose to seal the tile, which I recommend for outdoor tiles that are exposed to the elements, make sure to test a small area first to ensure the sealer does not damage the tile's surface. In regards to the grout, sealing is necessary in my opinion; if not done soon after the tiling is completed, the grout will need to be properly cleaned and dried, after which an appropriate grout sealer should be applied.

Whether it's ceramic, porcelain or one of the many different natural stones – we have a blog coming soon with how each should be cared for and maintained. In regards to regular maintenance, cleaning any dirt or spills as soon as possible will prevent them from sinking deeper into the tile, especially underneath toilets, sinks and freestanding baths. So remember, until next time – keep your tiles clean!