Wondering how to clean grout, especially the spots on a tile floor that have built up layers of gunk? Youve come to the right place!
Ceramictileshave made the world a more beautifulplacesince around 4,000 B.C., when theywere first used as a handsome and durable way of facing the surface of buildings. Today, theyre popular inkitchensandbathroomsnot only because theyre gorgeous, but also because they wear well and theyre easy to clean. Yet tiledoes have its downside. Its surface is typicallyporous, which means that it mayabsorb whatever comes in contact with it, from dirt to soap scum to spilled makeup. And while glazed ceramic tilewhich has a top layer of liquid glassisstain-resistant, it is definitelynotstain proof.
So face facts: Whatever kind you have, you will eventually have to clean it. And youll want to do so carefully, since using thewrong products or materials may damage it further. Read on to learn how to clean ceramic tilethe right way.
How to clean grout
Groutthefiller between tiles that prevents water from seeping into the subflooringcan easily getdirty or discolored.While youreostensibly cleaning your grout whenever you clean tile, everyonce in a while you need to pull out the big guns to really get in there and clean ceramic tile grout.
To remove oils, mildew, and soap scum, use a professional-strength ceramic tile grout cleaner, or fill a spray bottle with a 1:1 ratio ofwhite vinegar and water.Then spray it directly on the grout, let stand for five minutes and finish by scrubbing with a soft-bristled brush.If stains remain, put a little baking soda or white toothpaste on a toothbrush, wet the grout and brush. But be aware of thepressure of your elbow grease; you want to remove dirt, but not the grout itself.
How to clean natural ceramic tile
Naturalceramic tile(meaning the typewithout theglossy glaze) tends tosoak up any liquids, powders, oroils that come into contact with its surface. So your first strategyintile tidinessis to immediately wipe up any dirt and spills, so they dont have time to seep in.
If you have an existing spot, clean it with warm, soapy water, saysJ.B. Sassano, president ofMr. Handyman. For stains that are stickylike hairspraydampen with rubbing alcohol and wipe up.
How to clean glazed ceramic tile
Glazed ceramic tileshave a bit more protection than their natural counterparts. But they alsoscratch, so cleaning with a light touch is key.
Start byvacuuming to remove any dust. Thenwash the tileswith either plainwater or an all-purpose cleaning solution.A homemade option isone-quartercup of white vinegar mixed into twogallons of warm water (vinegar cuts throughgrime and leaves a shine).
Neverclean glazed tile with abrasive cleaners, which can dull the finish. And always usea soft cotton cloth or a sponge mop, free ofmetallic parts that could damagethe glaze. If a stubborn stain demandsscrubbing, use a soft bristle brush only.
When you are ready to buy or sell your next home, please call me, Marie McLaughlin 727-858-7569.
Source:https://www.realtor.com/advice/home-improvement/how-to-clean-ceramic-tile/
