Tile has long been popular in kitchens and bathrooms for its water resistance and modern interior designers love its look in other areas of the home, but if you’re a homeowner thinking about making the switch from carpet to tile, you’re probably asking yourself, “Sure it looks good, but isn’t kind of a hassle to be cleaning grout all the time?”

There’s no hiding the fact that cleaning and maintaining a tile floor has an extra step compared to other flooring materials, but with tile’s combination of utility, luxury, and looks, it’s worth the effort. But you’ll need a few extra tools. Pick up a toothbrush and baking soda in addition to your regular mop, bucket, and floor cleaner and you’re all set. Be sure that your floor cleaner is appropriate for your tile whether it’s porcelain, ceramic, or natural stone – using the wrong type of cleaner can damage your floor’s finish.

Because grout is a porous compound that absorbs dirty water, harsh cleaning products, and other contaminants, it’s best to avoid using a sponge mop that pushes around dirty water so it can soak into your grout and instead go with a damp (not wet) flat mop or cleaning cloth to clean the tile.

Now that we’ve got all the tools and cleaners we need, continue reading below for our tips on cleaning and maintaining tile floors.

How to Maintain Tile Floors

1. Regular Sweeping – You sweep once or twice a week, right? Using a soft broom or vacuum as part of your normal cleaning routine keeps tile fresh and clean between deep cleanings.
2. Mop, Rinse, Repeat – Mopping tile floors once a week with a damp (not wet!) flat mop keeps them looking shiny and new while keeping dust and dirt from getting absorbed into your grout. Use warm water and a mild cleaning solution then dry mop to absorb any leftover moisture.
3. Cover Up – Depending on the location, you might consider laying a doormat or rug on your tile to stop dirt from being tracked in and around your home.

How to Clean Grout

1. Sweep and mop to remove loose dirt and dust
2. Combine baking soda and water to form a paste
3. Using a toothbrush, work the baking soda solution into the grout
4. Wait overnight for baking soda paste to loosen stuck dirt particles
5. Scrub grout with toothbrush until clean
6. Rinse with warm water and dry
7. If small grout stains remain, scrub with a pencil eraser
8. If there are large or stubborn stains, use commercial grout cleaner or a 75% bleach / 25% water mixture, but be careful to avoid getting bleach on your tile.

Whether you’re doing upkeep on antique porcelain or working on your floor plan for new construction, Dan’s Wholesale Carpet & Flooring is here for you with leading tile brands in all the popular and classic styles. Click the free consultation at the top of this page, visit any of our four Northeast Ohio locations, or give us a call to talk tile today!