Using Bleach and Ammonia Based Cleaners:
Don't use them. There
are plenty of other products out there that are milder and will get you
squeaky clean results. Bleach and ammonia based cleaners will discolor
your grout lines over time. It may happen very gradually, but it will
happen. Try using a mild all-purpose cleaner, or the manufacturer's
suggested product, instead.
Scrubbing Tile and Grout:
Never use
steel wool, abrasive scrubbing powders, or any other scrubbing material
on your tile. Your tile has a finish on it that will be damaged with
any of these products. Soft cleaning cloths and mops are usually all
that is required.
Letting Spills Sit:
Don't let spills sit for
any length of time. The same stains that will discolor your clothes,
will seep in and discolor your tile and grout. Oily stains, tomato
stains, and drink stains can all sink into your tile, so wipe them up
quick.
Not Protecting from Furniture:
Tile is hard and it can
withstand a lot, but it will crack or chip if enough force is exerted
on it. Protect your tile surfaces by using furniture protectors on the
bottom of chair and table legs. When moving furniture be especially
careful. Be sure to use protectors on the bottom of any potted plants
as well.
Using a Vacuum's Beater Bar:
Don't use them on your
tile floors. They may scratch or dull your finish. Most vacuum cleaners
have a button that will turn of your beater bar to vacuum hard surface
floors like tile.
Infrequent Sweeping and Mopping:
Dirt is the
worst enemy to a tile floor. Tile floors need to be swept/vacuumed and
mopped regularly to prevent damage to the grout and finish. A quick
daily sweep, and a light weekly mopping are usually all that is
required to keep your floors looking great.
Not Caulking and Sealing:
Tile
surfaces that are exposed to water will need to be caulked.
Periodically inspect the caulk to make sure it isn't peeling away from
the tile surface.
Similarly, sealing will protect your grout from damage and wear and tear. It also offers more stain protection.
Check your manufacturer's instructions for a recommended schedule for sealing, and the type of sealer you need for your tile.
Oil Based Cleaners on Glazed Tile:
If
your tile is glazed, you may notice it can get slippery. Never use an
oil based cleaner on glazed or shiny tile. It's an accident waiting to
happen.
Forgetting Door Mats:
Most of the dirt that comes into
our homes, do so on foot. Be sure to position a door mat outside and
inside each surface of your home. You'll catch most of the dirt before
it even has a chance to get near your tile.
Over-Wetting the Tile:
Using
an overly wet mop, or not drying up spills can damage and stain your
tile. Minerals in tap water can leave behind discoloration. Wetness can
lead to mildew and dingy grout lines. Floors that are left to dry
slowly can have a dull or dingy look. Try hand drying floors to buff
and polish them.