Cleaning Ceramic Tile Floors - How to Clean Ceramic Tiles

Ceramic tile floors are a popular type of flooring which add beauty and elegance to your home. Ceramic tiles are cherished for their durability and unmatched beauty. They are actually made from clay, sand, quartz and ferrous materials. The hardness and durability of ceramic tiles can be attributed to the manufacturing process, where all these substances are crushed and then burned in a kiln at a very high temperature. In addition to their durability, another advantage of ceramic tiles is that they can also be used in bathrooms and kitchens, as they can withstand moisture.

Ceramic tiles are available in a wide range of patterns and colors to conform to your style and fashion. If maintained properly, they can last for several years and still retain their exotic look and glaze. An important part of general care and maintenance for any kind flooring is proper cleaning. Cleaning ceramic tiles is comparatively quite easy and simple. Here are a few simple tips on how to clean ceramic tile floors.

How to Clean Ceramic Tiles

Regular cleaning and maintenance is of prime importance to retain the beauty and glaze of your ceramic tiles and also to protect them from damage and scratches. The first step of proper cleaning is to remove any kind of abrasive substances like dust, dirt, sand or grim that can make the tiles dull. For this you can use a soft broom or a vacuum cleaner, but don't use the beater bar attachment, as it can scratch the surface. A regular damp mop with warm water is very essential for cleaning ceramic tile floors. Sometimes, you can also use a small amount of mild detergent along with water, to mop the floor tiles. But remember to rinse the floor again with fresh water to remove any residue left. This will help you avoid the formation of the thin layer on the surface, usually caused by the use of any kind of cleaner or detergent.

Though many cleaning products are available in the market, you should choose a mild cleaner for your ceramic tiles. Do not use any kind of harsh cleaners, especially acidic, alkaline, bleach and ammonia based products for cleaning ceramic tile floors. Also avoid using abrasive cleaners like steel wool and scouring powder, as they can scratch the surface. Before selecting a particular type of product, you should go through the manufacturer's guidelines and instructions to get an idea about the type of cleaner suitable for your tile floors.

For removing soap scum, you can use a slightly abrasive cloth to scrub the area, but make sure that you do not end up scratching the surface. Cleaning the tile grouts, especially in the bathroom, can be the hardest part of cleaning ceramic tile floors. Vinegar can be used for cleaning these tile grouts. Just apply vinegar on the area and let it remain for a while and then scrub with a brush. Instead of vinegar, you can also use a paste of baking soda and water for the same purpose. You can also consider the option of sealing the tile grouts to protect them from dirt and stains, which will make the cleaning process easier.

Care and Maintenance of Ceramic Tiles

Proper cleaning of ceramic tiles should be complemented by adequate care and maintenance in order to protect them from possible damage. So place doormats at every entrance to contain dust and dirt, do not drag furniture over the floors, place plastic protector under the legs of the furniture and follow the instructions of manufacturer to choose any kind of cleaner for your ceramic tiles. Also remember to clean any liquid spill immediately to prevent your ceramic tile floors from getting stained.

By following these simple tips on how to clean ceramic tiles, you can keep them beautiful and free from stains and scratches.