Once you’ve had your shiny new tiles installed, you will want to know how to look after them. To help you master the cleaning and care of your tiles, here are some things you should consider, depending on the type of tile you have.
Natural stone tiles
Natural stone tiles are one of the most beautiful types. However, due to their porous properties, they require a bit of attention to keep them clean and protected. Despite their hard exterior, natural stone tiles are often soft on the inside, and many acidic cleaners can damage them. You should look for a high-quality detergent that is specifically designed for use on all types of stone, including natural ones.
Opt for pH-neutral cleaning products that include natural materials such as linseed oil. You should also avoid using hard bristle brushes or scouring pads as these can scratch the surface of the stone. If you are dealing with a tough stain apply a heavy concentration of cleaning product, leave it to soak and break down the dirt, and then wipe it away with clean water.
Porcelain tiles
Porcelain tiles are a go-to for commercial properties, as they are hard-wearing and they require minimal upkeep, making them perfect for high-traffic areas. However, even though they are tough and durable, it will pay to clean them once or twice a week.
Knowing which type of porcelain you are dealing with will determine the appropriate cleaning method. Polished porcelain requires little maintenance, a simple hoover and a quick mop with warm water and mild detergent will keep them glistening.
Textured porcelain needs a little more consideration, begin by removing surface dirt and dust, then saturate with a neutral cleaning solution allowing it to soak for 10 minutes. Finally, scrub the porcelain tiles with a soft bristle brush.
High gloss tiles
Glossy tiles are known for showing watermarks, grease and grime, so they need to be well looked after if you want them pristine at all times. This doesn’t necessarily mean special cleaning, instead, it means regular cleaning.
Liquid detergents can leave a visible residue on your tiles, to avoid this you should clean the whole surface in one go, and then after you have applied your cleaning solution you should rinse the tiles again with clean water, before drying them with a cloth (rather than air drying) to ensure they keep that glossy finish.
