Ceramic tiles are a beautiful option for any home. It presents almost endless design possibilities and is available in numerous shapes, colors, patterns, and glazes. The process by which tiles are manufactured results in two basic types: glazed and unglazed tile. The addition of glaze to a tile presents the opportunity for a variety of colors and patterns. Unglazed tiles are limited in appearance to the natural colors of clay.
To keep your glazed tile products looking their best, regular cleaning is essential. Use an all-purpose, low VOC cleaner that is safe for household or commercial use. It's important to choose a product that is compatible with grout joint cleaning. The type of cleaner needed may vary depending on the tile's purpose and level of use. For everyday cleaning of wall tiles in residential bathrooms and showers, a multipurpose spray cleaner is a great option. This type of cleaner is designed to remove soap scum, hard water deposits, and mildew. Simply apply and agitate the cleaner with a cotton mop, cloth, sponge, or non-metallic brush. Then, rinse the area with clean water and dry thoroughly. It's crucial to avoid harsh chemicals in routine cleaners, as they can damage the tile. Acids, in particular, can harm grout and the glazed surface of the tile. Ammonia is also not recommended, as it can cause discoloration of grout. Before using any liquid cleaners, it's best to first dust mop, sweep, or vacuum the area.
To keep your glazed ceramic tile looking its best, it's important to properly seal it. However, grout should always be sealed for maximum protection.
If you find yourself needing to remove a topical sealer or floor wax from your ceramic tile, don't fret. We recommend using a tile sealer and adhesive remover. Before applying, be sure to test a small area to ensure it doesn't damage your tile. Then, generously apply the undiluted remover to a manageable area and let it sit until the coating or residue softens. If needed, reapply until the sealer is soft enough to be removed. For tougher spots, use a white nylon scrub pad. Once the residue is gone, wipe the area with a cotton towel or sponge and rinse thoroughly with clean water. Just remember, this method is not suitable for natural stone products.
Grout Care
To ensure lasting cleanliness and prevent discoloration of your grout, it is important to properly maintain it. This can be achieved by periodically cleaning the grout to remove any buildup on the surface. For routine cleaning, a concentrated household or commercial cleaner can be used, depending on the type of application. However, for tougher grout cleaning jobs, a professional strength tile and grout cleaner is recommended. This powerful cleaner is capable of removing tough stains such as grease, soap scum, body oil, mildew, algae, and synthetic or acrylic waxes from the grout joints. It is important to choose a product that contains eco-friendly chemicals and has low VOC levels. These products can be found at most home centers or through your local professional floor covering dealer. By properly maintaining your grout, you can ensure its longevity and keep your surfaces looking like new.