Tile floors, grout, and other similar surfaces are reasonably easy to clean and maintain and offer a high level of durability. When sweeping and mopping aren’t enough, some individuals turn to more harsh cleaning procedures, which, unfortunately, can result in discoloration and an overall unpleasant appearance of the surfaces.
These inappropriate cleaning procedures and the use of aggressive cleaning solutions, when used over a long period of time, can eventually harm the tile and grout.
Let’s take a look at some common Tile and Grout Cleaning mistakes that are frequent but harmful.
Table of Contents
5 Common Tile and Grout Cleaning Mistakes
1. The Use of Harsh Chemicals
Some messes, according to conventional wisdom, necessitate the use of ammonia and bleach, but these compounds can destroy tile and grout if not utilised properly. They may make your tile floors and grout look gleaming and new, but only a professional tile and grout cleaning service should use them. They will diminish the life of your tiles and weaken the grout if not used properly. Oil-based cleansers should be avoided as well, especially if your tiles are glazed.
If you must use a professional cleaning product that contains bleach or ammonia, choose a softer one and carefully follow the instructions. Otherwise, hire an expert to complete this task.
2. Wrong Mopping Techniques
Wet mopping with clean water is the proper approach to clean tile floors. Wet mopping, rather than damp mopping, is the most typical tile cleaning mistake. Dirty water soaking into the porous surface of tile and grout generates an undesired buildup of moisture, which can lead to a slew of other issues with your flooring and grout.
3. Spills not being Cleaned up Right away
You may believe that allowing a spill to rest on a tiled floor for a few minutes is OK, but this is a tremendous mistake. Although your floor is stain-resistant, no surface is fully stain-free. A stain-resistant surface will buy you a few extra minutes while you clean up a disaster, but that’s all. Simply said, clean up any spill as soon as possible. Don’t put it off.
4. Using an Excessive Amount of Scrubbing
No hard surface is totally impenetrable to scratching, just as no tiled surface is impervious to stains. You may believe that scrubbing your tile and grout more thoroughly will help it clean, but you may be doing more harm than good. Tiles can be damaged, and grout is prone to breaking down and chipping. Instead of harsh brushes and steel wool, use gentler cloths and mops to clean your tile and grout.
5. Use of Oil and Wax-based Cleaners
While wax and other wax-based cleaning agents give some temporary odour and stain protection for your tiles, they do more harm than good to your costly flooring investment. Wax should be removed and reapplied on a regular basis; otherwise, accumulation will occur, resulting in ugly yellow streaks that will attract more dirt, oil, and filth. Oil-based cleaners, on the other hand, cause a slew of issues, including an increase in the danger of falls and slips in your house.
Best Cleaning Tips for Tile and Grout Cleaning
Tile Cleaning Tips:
- Combine the cleaning product and warm water in a mixing bowl.
- Use a cleaning product with a pH of 7.0 or higher (close to 7). Grout can be damaged by strong alkaline cleaning agents over time.
- Use a chamois or rag mop to clean the floor (a sponge mop often holds too much dirt and water if not squeezed properly).
- Make sure the mop is moist but not dripping.
- Mop the floor in an even and gentle manner, being sure to follow a pattern to reach all areas.
Grout Cleaning Tips:
- Mix a couple of teaspoons of Bi-Carb Soda powder with a little water to make a paste.
- Apply it to the grout and let it dry for a few hours.
- Scrub it with an old toothbrush and then rinse it.
Some Frequently Asked Questions about Tile and Grout Cleaning
1. How to Seal Tile Grouts after Cleaning?
There are few steps to follow to seal tile grouts once the cleaning is done
Step 1: Repair and clean the grout. Clean your grout thoroughly and fix any fractures or crumbles in the grout lines before applying a sealant.
Step 2: Decide on a sealer.
Step 3: Select an applicator for the sealer.
Step 4: Use a slow and methodical application of sealer.
Step 5: Seal the surface with a second application of sealant.
2. How much does Tile and Grout Cleaning cost?
Cost of Tile and Grout cleaning work on charges per square foot which may vary from professional cleaner to cleaner. It also depends on the kind of complexity aligned with cleaning. To know how Dirt2neat Tile and Grout cleaning service costs in Sydney, connect with us at info@dirt2neat.com.au.
3. Why Tile and Grout Cleaning is so important?
The grout between tiles will get black and unclean if not cleaned professionally on a regular basis. This is not only unsightly, but it can also host bacteria that emit disagreeable scents or make you sick. That is why it is critical to use skilled grout cleaning services.
Conclusion:
Avoid committing the above mistakes and you can be sure your tile floors will be clean and safe and won’t need those costly maintenance costs for the long years you’ll have to enjoy it.
For any problems, you may have with your tile floors and surfaces or if you think you don’t want to risk your tile and grout with DIY cleaning and want to go with Professional Tile and Grout cleaning service in Sydney, we at Dirt2neat are just a phone call away or contact us at info@dirt2neat.com.au.