Everyone wants their home to look beautiful and sparkling. To achieve that, keeping the house clean is essential. Cleanliness enhances a home’s beauty many times over, and sparkling white tiles make a room look even brighter and more appealing.
Tiles and their uses
Theme-based designs are increasingly common inside and outside buildings today, and a wide variety of tiles are available to match. Marble, concrete, porcelain and ceramic tiles are among the most commonly used. Some tiles can withstand heat and pressure on floors well; others look beautiful but are more fragile. Some tiles grow stronger with exposure to moisture over time, while others begin to erode when exposed to it. Whether used on floors or walls, tiles should be chosen and installed for the long term with a clear understanding of their pros, cons and cleaning requirements.
What to clean with
White vinegar, baking soda or a specialised commercial tile cleaner can remove tough, stubborn stains from tiles. For regular cleaning, you’ll need a microfibre cloth, ordinary detergent or soap, lukewarm water, and a soft broom or brush. There are various rules for keeping tiles easily clean and well maintained. Here are some tips and advice for keeping tiles sparkling clean.
Ceramic
Glossy, colourful ceramic tiles are available in the market in various sizes, and unglazed ceramic is also available these days. These tiles have relatively low resistance to pressure, so it’s best to avoid using a hard brush while cleaning. Stains can be easily removed using dish soap or white vinegar with lukewarm water, which also keeps the tile’s shine intact. If cleaning with a sponge cloth, be sure to change the dirty water frequently. Also, wipe the floor with a dry cotton cloth before the water dries completely, to prevent water spots from forming on the tiles.
Porcelain
Porcelain is popular for floor tiles because it is less fragile and doesn’t stain easily. It can replicate various designs, including marble or wood textures, almost exactly. Porcelain tiles can also be cleaned with liquid soap or vinegar mixed with lukewarm water. However, for removing yellowing on kitchen or bathroom tiles, an acidic or bleach cleaner solution can be used once a week. Using a spray bottle, apply the cleaner solution to the dirty area and let it sit for a while. Then, wearing gloves, gently scrub with a bathroom brush to clean. Before using any cleaner solution directly, always test a small amount on the tile first to check whether it changes the tile’s colour. Acidic cleaners can sometimes erode or discolour tiles, so check the pH level before buying such a cleaner.
Terracotta tiles
Before cleaning traditional terracotta tiles, vacuum first or wipe away dust with a dry cloth. A brush can be used for tough dirt if needed. Wiping with lukewarm water and dish soap is usually enough to remove grime from these tiles. For heavier dirt, a mixture of oxalic acid and water can help.
Quarry tiles
These are similar to terracotta tiles, so it’s best to wipe them with a pH-neutral cleaner. Using an acidic cleaner on these tiles can cause them to erode.
Zellige tiles
Zellige is a type of terracotta tile made in the Middle East, particularly Morocco. Arranged in earthy-toned geometric patterns, its handmade look makes it a favourite among minimalist design fans. If used on a balcony or kitchen wall, dust should be wiped off with a dry cloth every few days. It’s best not to clean these tiles with an acidic cleaner.
Slate tiles
Slate tiles suit homes with a black-and-white colour scheme. They typically come in a blend of copper-coal or silver tones. They’re generally suited for outdoor kitchens, balconies and cottages. Vacuuming or wiping such tiles with a dry cloth every couple of days keeps them looking their best.
Marble
Marble tiles easily brighten a room. They are used more indoors than granite because they are less durable and more fragile. With careful use, marble tiles can retain their fresh look for many years. However, acidic cleaners should never be used on marble. If marble tiles get stained, mix a spoonful of baking soda with water to make a paste and apply it to the stain or dirty spot. Wrap it in plastic and leave it for a few hours. Wiping it off with a cotton cloth afterward will clear the stain and restore the marble’s shine.
Whatever type of tile you have, a few general points are worth remembering. Stains or dirt often build up more heavily between two cut tile edges. Many people recommend steam cleaning for this, but it can actually damage tiles. It’s better to make a paste of baking soda and water, wrap it in plastic and leave it for a few hours, or overnight, then wipe clean with a damp cloth in the morning. Getting a silicone-based sealant applied is the most effective long-term solution for these gaps — it prevents dirt, moisture or water from eroding the tiles at all.