In a recent survey, 60% of interior designers reported that natural tiles were the top choice for bathrooms. When it comes to cleaning your bathroom tile, it can be a daunting task and one you may want to leave to the professionals. Many homeowners unknowingly damage their tiles and grout through improper cleaning methods. Here are the 6 key mistakes to avoid if you clean your tile and grout yourself.
1. Using Bleach as Your Go-To Cleaner
Bleach might seem like a powerful cleaning solution, but it’s one of the worst choices for grout maintenance. Harsh cleaners aren’t always the best method for cleaning in your home. For tile cleaning, bleach can erode and weaken grout over time, leading to crumbling and deterioration. The harsh chemicals break down the grout’s protective sealant, making it more susceptible to staining and water damage. Instead, opt for pH-neutral cleaners specifically designed for tile and grout.
2. Letting Acidic Spills Sit
Wine, citrus juices, and tomato sauce are tough stains that are harmful to your grout and natural stone tiles. These acidic substances can etch the surface of natural stone and gradually dissolve grout if left unattended. When spills happen, blot them immediately with a clean cloth and clean the area with a neutral cleaner.
3. Scrubbing With Steel Wool or Wire Brushes
While these abrasive tools might seem effective for stubborn stains, they can permanently damage both tile and grout. Steel wool and wire brushes create micro-scratches that collect dirt and make future cleaning more difficult. They can also wear away grout and damage the glazing on ceramic tiles. Use soft brushes or nylon scrubbers instead.
4. Overusing Steam Cleaners
Excessive use of steam cleaning can cause serious problems. The high-temperature steam can break down grout sealer faster than normal wear and tear, and the intense heat may cause tiles to expand and contract, potentially leading to cracks. Limit steam cleaning to occasional deep cleans rather than regular maintenance. Consider sealing regularly and routine cleaning as a good preventative plan.
5. Mixing Cleaning Products
Combining different cleaning products in hopes of creating a “super cleaner” can result in dangerous chemical reactions and toxic fumes. These mixtures can damage grout and tile finishes in unpredictable ways. Stick to one appropriate cleaning product at a time, following the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
6. Neglecting Regular Sealing
While this isn’t strictly a cleaning mistake, failing to reseal grout periodically makes every cleaning task more difficult and less effective. Unsealed grout absorbs dirt, moisture, and stains more readily, leading to permanent discoloration and potential structural issues. Schedule regular sealing maintenance according to your grout type and usage patterns.
By avoiding these common cleaning mistakes, you’ll preserve the beauty and integrity of your tile and grout. Prevention is always easier than correction. Using proper cleaning techniques from the start will save you time, money, and frustration in the long run. When in doubt, consult with a flooring professional about the best cleaning methods for your specific tile and grout type.
If you need professional tile and grout cleaning services, please get in touch with us today.