Tile Cleaning and Maintenance Guide: Keep Your Tiles Looking Their Best
Tile are a timeless, practical and stylish choice for any home – but like any surface, they need a little TLC to stay looking as good as new. Whether you’ve chosen classic ceramic or modern porcelain, regular cleaning and maintenance will help preserve their beauty and longevity.
We’re sharing our top tips for cleaning and maintaining your tiles, so they stay sparkling for years to come.
Everyday Cleaning Tips
Sweep or Vacuum Regularly – Dust, dirt and debris can dull the surface of your tiles and scratch them over time. A quick daily sweep or vacuum will help prevent build-up and keep your floors looking fresh.
Mop with Warm Water and Mild Detergent – For routine cleaning, a simple solution of warm water and a few drops of gentle detergent works wonders. Avoid harsh chemicals, especially on natural stone tiles, as they can damage the surface.
Don’t Forget Wall Tiles – In kitchens and bathrooms, wall tiles can quickly gather splashes, steam residue and dust. Wipe them down regularly with a soft cloth or sponge and warm, soapy water. A microfibre cloth is ideal for glossy finishes, leaving them streak-free and shining.
To Tip:
Change the water regularly whilst mopping to avoid spreading dirt around!
Cleaning New Tiles Before Installation
Before installing your new tiles, it’s a good idea to give them a gentle clean to remove any dust, residue or packaging debris picked up during transit. Simply wipe them down with a soft, damp cloth and allow them to dry fully before fitting. Some tiles, may arrive with a protective wax coating. Check out our guide to removing wax for simple, step by step advice.
Dealing with Stains and Spills
Act Quickly: Wipe up spills as soon as possible to prevent staining, particularly on porous tiles like limestone or marble.
Use Suitable Cleaners: For stubborn stains, use a cleaner appropriate for your tile type. Always test on a small, inconspicuous area first.
Avoid Abrasive Tools: Steer clear of wire brushes or scouring pads, which can scratch and damage tile surfaces.
Grout Cleaning Essentials
Grout lines can easily collect dirt and grime, making them look tired and discoloured. Keep them fresh with these tips:
Regular Scrubbing: Use a soft brush (an old toothbrush works well) with a mixture of baking soda and water for a gentle yet effective cleaning.
Seal Grout Lines: If your tiles are in moisture-prone areas like bathrooms, applying a grout sealer once a year will help prevent stains and mould build-up.
Seasonal Deep Cleaning
Every few months, give your tiled surface a thorough clean:
· Use a pH-neutral cleaner designed for your specific tile material.
· Rinse well with clean water to remove any residue.
· Dry the surface with a soft cloth to prevent water spots, especially on polished tiles.
Tile Maintenance Do’s and Don’ts
Do:
✔️ Use mats at entrances to reduce dirt being walked in.
✔️ Place protective pads under furniture legs.
✔️ Clean up spills immediately.
Don’t:
❌ Use bleach or acidic cleaners on natural stone.
❌ Drag heavy furniture directly across tiled floors.
❌ Leave standing water on tiles for long periods.
With a little regular care and attention, your tiles can remain beautiful and hard-wearing for years to come. Stick to gentle, non-abrasive cleaners and treat your grout to some TLC now and then – your floors and walls will thank you for it.
Thinking about updating your space with new tiles? Browse our latest collections for inspiration!