Basic Tile Care

When cleaning unglazed wall and floor tiles, use a damp sponge or cloth with a solution of water and a soapless detergent, do not use an all-purpose cleaner. Do not use ammonia, as it will discolor grout. When cleaning glazed wall tiles, use a sponge or cloth and dampen it with a non oil-based household cleaner. Vacuum glazed floor tiles regularly to remove dirt and other gritty particles, then damp mop or sponge with an all-purpose, non oil-based cleaner.

Caring for Grout

After tiles are cleaned and dried briefly after installation, grout joints should be treated with a silicone sealer. It is recommended that you apply a sealer at least once every six months for maximum stain protection.

Commercial Cleaning

More vigorous cleaning is required is for areas of high traffic or areas that have been highly neglected. Heavy duty cleaning requires making a paste of scouring powder. Apply to the area as needed and let stand for a few minutes. Scour with a brush and then rinse and wipe dry. Larger areas may require the use of a scrubbing machine, though for most floors a small non-abrasive brush or sponge will be suitable.

If you are using soft water, use a non oil-based, all-purpose cleaner. Let stand for five minutes then lightly scrub with a sponge, and rinse thoroughly.

To clean soap scum, mildew stains, and hard-water deposits: remove from ceramic tile using cleaning products that are commonly available at your local home improvement store.

Maintenance Products

For more detailed information about how specific cleaning solutions or sealants should be used, consult the manufacturer of the cleaner, sealant or wax for usage and instructions. Most cleaning products and sealants can be purchased at local home improvement centers or local flooring stores.

Do's and Don'ts of Tile Care

DO NOT: Use steel wool pads, scouring pads, or any item containing harsh aids like metal.

DO NOT: Clean using ammonia. Ammonia will discolor the grout.

DO NOT: Use cleansers that contain bleach and/or acid for cleaning and maintenance.

DO NOT: Use any oil-based detergents, wax cleaners, or sealants in the maintenance of your tiles.

DO NOT: Use agents that contain dye/color on stone or unglazed ceramic tile.

DO: Seal grouted joints.

DO: Test scouring powders on a small area or a sample tile first (would not be recommended for natural stone).

DO: Have any damaged or broken tiles removed and replaced by a qualified contractor.