Mr. Clean is one of the most popular and recognizable floor cleaning products on the market. With its fresh scent and ability to cut through grease and grime, it’s no wonder people reach for this trusted cleaner when mopping their kitchen floors. But can you safely use Mr. Clean on tile floors? Let’s take a closer look.
What Exactly is Mr. Clean?
Mr. Clean is a multi-purpose cleaner made by Procter & Gamble. It was introduced in 1958 and has been a household staple ever since. The classic liquid Mr. Clean contains surfactants that help lift dirt, grease, and oils. It also contains fragrances and dyes. There are also Mr. Clean products formulated specifically for different cleaning needs, like bathroom scrubbing, wood floors, and more.
When used correctly, Mr. Clean can safely clean many hard, non-porous surfaces like countertops, appliances, and yes – tile floors. The key is dilution and rinsing.
Benefits of Using Mr. Clean on Tile
There are a few advantages to using Mr. Clean on ceramic, porcelain, or other tiled floors:
Strong cleaning power
Mr. Clean can help dissolve tough oil, grease, and grime that can build up on tile over time. Its surfactants help lift and remove stubborn messes.
Streak-free shine
When used properly, Mr. Clean can leave tile floors looking shiny and polished without streaks or residue buildup. This is great for kitchens and bathrooms where you want floors to look their best.
Fresh scent
Who doesn’t love that signature Mr. Clean scent? Mopping with Mr. Clean leaves your floors smelling clean.
Cost-effective
Mr. Clean is affordable and economical compared to some specialty tile floor cleaners. A little goes a long way when used correctly.
Potential Risks of Using Mr. Clean on Tile
While Mr. Clean can be safe for tile when used properly, there are also some potential risks:
Stripping
High concentrations or inadequate rinsing of Mr. Clean can actually strip and dull natural stone tiles over time. The abrasives and chemicals can damage certain surfaces if left to sit too long.
Etching
Acidic cleaners like Mr. Clean have the potential to etch grout when left to sit too long. This can permanently damage grout, leaving it looking worn and dingy.
Residue buildup
Without thorough rinsing, Mr. Clean can leave a soap scum or waxy buildup on tile that leads to lackluster, filmy-looking floors.
Slippery floors
Mr. Clean can leave floors slippery when excess cleaner is not removed. Take care when walking on floors after mopping.
Tips for Using Mr. Clean on Tile Safely
Here are some tips to safely use Mr. Clean on tile floors:
- Always dilute Mr. Clean with water according to the label directions based on your cleaning needs. Don’t use full-strength.
- Spot test an inconspicuous area first before overall cleaning to check for adverse effects.
- Mop or wipe floors thoroughly with clean water after using Mr. Clean to prevent residue buildup.
- Don’t allow Mr. Clean to sit or soak on floors for extended periods, which can lead to etching.
- For grout, use a Mr. Clean formulation designed for bathroom scrubbing, not the classic multi-surface cleaner.
- Consider re-sealing grout lines periodically to protect from damage.
- Opt for a tile & grout brush attachment on your mop to loosen dirt from grout lines for a deeper clean.
Cleaning Tile Grout with Mr. Clean
Pay special attention when using Mr. Clean on the grout between tiles. Grout is porous and more susceptible to damage from harsh cleaners. Use a targeted grout cleaner, not the standard Mr. Clean.
Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before scrubbing with a grout brush. Avoid abrasive scouring pads. Rinse thoroughly with clean water. Repeat as needed for stubborn stains.
Be very cautious with grout around natural stone tiles. Opt for gentle hydrogen peroxide or baking soda based cleaners instead. Re-seal grout every 1-2 years.
Using Mr. Clean in Kitchens and Bathrooms
Kitchens and bathrooms often have the grimiest tile floors that need the toughest cleaners. Mr. Clean can work great here, but take extra precautions:
- Mix Mr. Clean weaker, using 1 part cleaner to 10 parts water. The label advises 1 part to 20 parts for light cleaning.
- Work in small sections to avoid the solution drying on the floor.
- Rinse repeatedly with fresh water and use a wet/dry vacuum to remove it all.
- Don’t use on natural stone floors. Opt for a stone-safe cleaner.
- Test an inconspicuous spot first, like under the refrigerator or vanity.
- Install floor mats around sinks and stoves to reduce grime buildup.
Alternative Tile Floor Cleaners
If you’re concerned about using Mr. Clean on your tile, some other good options include:
- Vinegar or lemon juice – These mild acids help remove soap scum. Mix with water to clean and shine tile.
- Baking soda – Gentle abrasion from baking soda can help scour grime. Form a paste with water for grout.
- Specialty tile cleaners – Look for natural, non-abrasive formulas made for stone and tile. Avoid dyes, scents, and harsh chemicals.
- Dish soap – Small amounts of mild dish soap diluted in water can degrease floors.
- Hydrogen peroxide – Removes stains and whitens grout. Mix with baking soda and water for a paste.
- Club soda – Bubbly club soda can get grout clean. Pour on, let sit, then scrub and rinse.
Conclusion
In summary, Mr. Clean is a versatile cleaner that can be safely used on tile floors with proper dilution and rinsing. Just take care to avoid residue buildup, stripping of natural stone tiles, and etching of grout. And for best results, opt for tile-specific Mr. Clean products or more gentle cleaners.