Maintaining your tiled areas is essential for good hygiene and preserving the attractive appearance of your kitchen or bathroom so you can enjoy them for a decade to come. However, in the battle to remove the inevitable build-up of dirt, grime and stains from everyday use, we all seek a quick solution to buff up our tiles' appearance which may actually be damaging our tiles and grout.
Don't worry, we're not reinventing the wheel; here are some quick and easy tips to ensure long-lasting tiles for every tile material.
What should I clean my tiles with?
The first step is to determine the type of material they are made from, as using the wrong cleaner can damage your beautiful tiles. As a general rule when cleaning your tiles, avoid cleaners that contain bleach or washing-up liquid as these can break down both sealers and grouts over time. A pH-neutral cleaner from your local tile showroom will maintain and protect your tiles for many years to come. If you are eco-conscious, you may be interested in our pH-neutral, eco-friendly tile sealers and cleaners (see below).
The best method to apply your cleaning solution is regularly. It makes the job easier and reduces the build-up & stubbornness of dirt or stains, keeping you and your tiles happy. Tools such as nylon stiff-bristled brushes, sponges or an emulsifying mop are your implements of choice for the initial application, then use a soft cloth or sponge to glide over the surface and buff it dry to remove streaks.
If you are uncertain of the effect your cleaner or tools may have, it is recommended to test a small area first to make sure the cleaner does not damage the surface, or contact us for professional advice.
How to clean ceramic tiles
For many kitchens and bathrooms around the world, ceramic tiles are common for indoor use. It is tempting to clean them using a mild detergent and water, as it is quick and at hand. While ceramic tiles may endure these cleaners, tile sealers and grout will be broken down gradually requiring replacement at a more rapid rate than otherwise. Instead, we recommend using the Multi-Purpose Cleaner from EcoProTec, due to its ease of use in rooms with multiple tile materials, making it an all-in-one solution, and its gentle and effective cleaning of the tile.
How to clean glass tiles
Dazzling glass tiles offer a unique appearance due to their interaction with light. To ensure they continue to shine in all their splendour, we would once again recommend Multi-Purpose Cleaner from EcoProTec. Its ease of application in a spray bottle makes it quick & convenient for cleaning walls and it can be used on polished and unpolished tiles. Be sure to buff with a dry, microfibre cloth for a streak-free result.
How to clean natural stone tiles
For those who enjoy the authentic stone floors of their farmhouse or stone's organic opulence, stay well away from bleach, lemon or vinegar. pH-neutral cleaners are a must, as natural stone is particularly susceptible to acidic cleaners which can etch the stone surface causing irreparable damage. Natural Stone & Porcelain Aftercare Cleaner is p-H neutral, eco-friendly and doesn't require any rinsing after use. Plus it can be used on sealed and unsealed tiles if needed.
Stone is becoming increasingly popular for indoor and outdoor applications, due to their longevity and timeless appeal. If you are looking to become the proud owner of durable and stunning stone tiles, we supply a range of exclusive natural stone tiles with various finishes and sizes for a truly authentic and stunning result.
How to clean textured tiles
The textured tiles' greatest strength can be your greatest enemy. These visually intriguing tiles are best approached with a toothbrush to reach every crevice and apply a cleaner appropriate to the tile's material. EcoProTec's Multi-Purpose Cleaner would once again be applicable here and as you can tell, the EcoProTec range is one we trust due to the calibre of the result.
How to clean grout
Stained grout is something any tile owner will, over the course of time, be familiar with from cooking and general use. Thankfully it's easy to resolve. Ensure you use a cleaner that won't damage the surrounding tiles such as Cement, Grout & Salt Residue Remover which uses an acid replacement formula making it suitable for interior & exterior use cases, a wide range of tile materials and won't tarnish chrome or steel. It rapidly cleans the surface removing cement residue, salts and stains with the flexibility of tackling mild cases with a strongly diluted solution, to extremely severe cases as per the instruction on the bottle.
Where to buy tile cleaner & sealant?
At MTM, we stock many eco-friendly and green-building products so that you can enjoy stunning tiling without compromising on quality or your values. The EcoProTec range from LTP is a brand we trust. Easy to use with excellent performance, it's perfect for your tiling aftercare and keeping your tiles looking new for years to come! As a bonus, they're a UK business based in the southwest!
In conclusion, regular cleaning is important to maintain the aesthetic appeal and durability of tiles. Different types of tiles require different cleaning methods and should not be treated the same. Always test a cleaner on a small area before applying it to the entire surface, and never use abrasive tools or harsh chemicals. With proper and regular care, tiles can remain attractive and functional for years to come.
The MTM Team
MTM Tile Showroom, Mission Room, Blagdon Hill, Taunton, Somerset, TA3 7SH