Cleaning Ceramic Tile Floors 201 1Regular cleaning and maintenance is of prime importance to retain the beauty and glaze of your ceramic tiles and also to protect them from damage and scratches. The first step of proper cleaning is to remove any kind of abrasive substances like dust, dirt, sand or grim that can make the tiles dull. For this you can use a soft broom or a vacuum cleaner, but don't use the beater bar attachment, as it can scratch the surface. A regular damp mop with warm water is very essential for cleaning ceramic tile floors. Sometimes, you can also use a small amount of mild detergent along with water, to mop the floor tiles. But remember to rinse the floor again with fresh water to remove any residue left. This will help you avoid the formation of the thin layer on the surface, usually caused by the use of any kind of cleaner or detergent.
Though many cleaning products are available in the market, you should choose a mild cleaner for your ceramic tiles. Do not use any kind of harsh cleaners, especially acidic, alkaline, bleach and ammonia based products for cleaning ceramic tile floors. Also avoid using abrasive cleaners like steel wool and scouring powder, as they can scratch the surface. Before selecting a particular type of product, you should go through the manufacturer's guidelines and instructions to get an idea about the type of cleaner suitable for your tile floors.
For removing soap scum, you can use a slightly abrasive cloth to scrub the area, but make sure that you do not end up scratching the surface. Cleaning the tile grouts, especially in the bathroom, can be the hardest part of cleaning ceramic tile floors. Vinegar can be used for cleaning these tile grouts. Just apply vinegar on the area and let it remain for a while and then scrub with a brush.
