Deep Cleaning Tile Floors Easy Way
- by Brodie Cook
Keeping tile floors clean helps your home look fresh and feel more inviting. Clean tiles can brighten up any space and make it more welcoming for you and your family.
Tiles can get dirty fast, especially in areas like the kitchen or bathroom. Dirt and grime build-up over time and your tile and grout becomes dirty. In the worst case in between the tiles, it traps the dirt and discolours the whole situation. Greases and spills from the kitchen happen to everyone. Once it settles in, it can be tough to scrub away.
Regular cleaning makes it easier to keep them looking great, but what if you don't? What if, like most people reading this, you are looking for a way to get tiles clean because simply mopping it didn't work?
Tools You’ll Need for Cleaning your Tiles
Bleach gets the job done, but it comes with a price. It’s tough on surfaces, bad for nature, and not great for you either. That’s why more people are turning to gentler cleaning options that are just as effective without the harshness.
- A reusable spray bottle with multipurpose cleaner sheets.
- A vacuum or broom to pick up loose dirt.
- A long-handled scrub brush or mop for those tough spots.
- A microfiber cloth or steam mop for an extra shine (optional)
Using a natural cleaner like Lucent Globe’s multipurpose sheets helps you clean without harsh chemicals. It’s better for you, your home, and your tiles.
Steps to Clean Tile Floors
Step 1: Prepare the Area
Start by clearing the floor. Move furniture and any loose items out of the way. If you don't have a vacuum then sweep the floor to remove the dirt from the tiles. Remove the bigger chunks so you won't need to mop that.
If you have a vacuum this would be better, as you won't be displacing dust but really removing it. The first part of the cleaning process is to make sure when we get to spray our multipurpose cleaner that there is no dirt and grime left on the floor.
Step 2: Mix Your Cleaning Solution
Take one Lucent Globe multipurpose cleaner sheet and dissolve it in 500ml of warm water. Pour it into your reusable spray bottle and shake gently to mix. Your newly highly effective cleaner is now ready to use.
Step 3: Scrub the Tiles
Spray the cleaning solution onto a small section of the tiles. Let the solution sit for a few minutes and spray it royally especially on tiles with embedded dirt. Make sure what you spray on doesn't dry up.
Use a long-handled scrub brush to work the cleaner into the grout and tile surface. For the corners, you can use an old toothbrush to reach the hard-to-reach places. Take your time with each section before moving on to the next.
Repeat until the entire floor is scrubbed.
Step 4: Rinse the Floor
Use a microfiber cloth or mop to wipe away the cleaning solution. Microfiber cloths are great because they absorb water and lift dirt instead of spreading it around. If you notice the cleaner has dried in spots, spray some water to loosen it before wiping. This helps keep your tiles looking spotless and streak-free.
Step 5: Dry the Floor
Let the tiles air dry for a natural finish. If you’re in a hurry, use a dry microfiber mop to speed up the process. Either way, your tiles will be thoroughly clean and look new again.
Tips for Maintaining Tile Floors
Use doormats at entrances to keep soil and dirt from being tracked inside. They help stop mud, sand, and other debris at the door. This keeps your tiles cleaner for longer.
Clean up spills as soon as they happen. Liquids can stain tiles and seep into grout lines if left too long. A quick wipe can save you from tougher scrubbing later.
Sweep or vacuum your tiles regularly. This keeps dust and dirt from building up and scratching the surface. A little effort often goes a long way in keeping your floors fresh.
Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using harsh household chemicals like bleach or regular floor cleaners on your tiles. These products can damage the finish and leave your tiles looking dull over time. Bleach can also weaken grout, making it more prone to cracking and stains.
Using hot water is another common mistake. It can harm certain tile finishes and break down grout sealants, making them less effective. Stick to lukewarm water when mixing your cleaning solution. It’s gentler on your tiles but still gets the job done.
Mopping with the wrong cleaner is another issue. Some cleaners leave a sticky residue that traps dirt instead of removing it. A gentle solution like Lucent Globe’s multipurpose cleaner sheets works well without harsh chemicals.