When it comes to durability and ease of maintenance, tile is a great option. Whether it’s on your floors, counters or walls, tile is generally easy to clean and will stand up to wear and tear. Grout, on the other hand, can be a bigger challenge. Read on for top tips from our Floor Coverings International® of team to keep your tile and grout in tip-top shape!
Cleaning Tile
The first step in tile maintenance is regular light cleaning. If you have tile flooring, run the vacuum every few days on the hard floor setting to pick up any dirt and debris that can scuff and scratch the surface. Weekly mopping, or wiping down tile walls, with warm water and a mild dishwashing detergent will also help the surface keep its fresh look.
If you have natural stone tile, you may need to consider cleaning procedures and solutions more carefully. There are cleaners specially formulated for stone surfaces, and it’s important to clean up spills right away. Stone can be porous and stain if spills are left untreated. Make sure the tile is properly sealed when it’s installed, and you may need to reseal the tile every few years to keep it protected from damage.
If you have a big mess on your hands, such as a pet accident, you may consider using a disinfectant on the tile surface. Be sure you know what products are recommended for use on your tile and spot check a small area before using any abrasive products.
Cleaning Grout
The regular cleaning you perform on your tile surfaces will go a long way to keeping the grout clean as well. Sometimes, however, grout requires a little more attention. If you are seeing discoloration, mildew, or other imperfections built up on your grout lines, use these tips for a deeper clean.
Solution
There are a number of homemade solutions you can use to clean grout. A simple mixture of 7 cups warm water, 1/2-cup baking soda, 1/3-cup ammonia and 1/4-cup vinegar often does the trick. Spray this solution onto grout lines, let it sit for 3-5 minutes and scrub the grout with a bristle brush. Don’t be afraid to put some elbow grease into it! Wipe up the surface and towel dry. Spot test a small area, as usual, before using any cleaning solution, store bought or homemade.
Repair
With regular cleaning, grout should stand the test of time. Sometimes, however, grout can crack, crumble, or stain and require some repair or replacement. You can fix small areas by digging out the old grout and replacing it with new, color-matched grout. Or you can work with a professional to re-tile or re-grout an entire surface.
If you’re ready for a fresh start on your tile, contact our team at Floor Coverings International® of for a free design consultation. We’ll bring samples right to you to help you find the perfect tile for your home.
Photo by kazoka