Keeping ceramic tile floors clean can be a real pain, especially when dealing with matte finish tiles that show every speck of dust and dirt. No matter how much sweeping and mopping is done, the kitchen floor looks less clean than when it was installed. And don’t even get started on the grout – it’s like a magnet for grime!
But having clean floors is important, so various products and techniques have been tested over the years. Now there is a good system in place for keeping matte ceramic tile floors looking fresh. The secrets are using the right tools, cleaning regularly, and treating stains as soon as they happen.
In this article, we’ll walk through a proven process for cleaning matte ceramic tiles. Keep reading.
.
Choose the Right Cleaning Tools
Having the right tools makes cleaning matte ceramic tiles much easier. Here are some must-haves:
- Microfiber Mops: Unlike string mops, microfiber mops won’t leave strands or lint behind. Look for a mop with a washable pad.
- Soft-Bristle Brooms: For quick daily sweeping, use a soft-bristle broom to whisk away dust and dirt. Avoid stiff bristles that can scratch.
- Floor Scrub Brush: For tougher dirt, a handheld scrub brush with soft nylon bristles easily scours tile floors.
- Bucket: Use one bucket for clean water and one for rinsing dirty rags/mop heads.
- Rags: Old t-shirts or microfiber cloths are ideal for washing and drying floors.
Know Your Tile Type
There are a few main varieties of ceramic floor tiles:
Porcelain Ceramic Tile
Made from refined clay, porcelain ceramic is dense, impervious to moisture, and highly durable. It’s excellent for high-traffic areas.
Stoneware Ceramic Tile
Stoneware tiles have a coarse texture and rustic styling. Their dark, matte colors hide dirt well.
Terracotta Ceramic Tile
Terracotta has an earthy reddish-brown color. It’s softer and more porous than other ceramic tiles. Seal regularly to prevent staining.
Check the tile packaging or consult your installer if unsure. This determines the cleaning methods and products to use.
Daily Maintenance
Regular cleaning keeps your matte ceramic floors looking their best.
Sweep and Dry Mop Daily
Use a broom or dry microfiber mop pad to sweep away surface-level dust and debris. This quick daily habit prevents dirt buildup.
Blot Spills Right Away
Liquids left sitting on ceramic tile can soak in and stain. Immediately blot spills with an absorbent rag. Avoid harsh scrubbing which can damage the matte finish.
Vacuum Weekly
Go over floors thoroughly with a vacuum once a week. Use an attachment to reach into corners and crevices. Vacuuming removes ground-in dirt that sweeping misses.
Wash High-Traffic Areas
Kitchens, entryways, and other high-traffic zones need more frequent washing. Twice weekly, go over these areas with a damp microfiber mop or rag using a mild ceramic tile cleaner diluted in water. Rinse well and allow to fully dry.
Deep Cleaning Regimen
For a deeper clean, tackling tile floors seasonally or quarterly keeps them looking fantastic.
Sweep and Vacuum First
Remove surface debris before washing for best results. Sweep with a soft broom then vacuum tiles and grout lines.
Mix Cleaning Solution
Fill one bucket with warm water and add a small amount of liquid dishwashing detergent or other mild cleaner safe for ceramic tile. For a store-bought option, use an alkaline tile cleaning product.
Scrub Tiles and Grout
Dip a scrub brush in the cleaning solution and work over small sections of tile. Apply light pressure and scrub along the grout lines. Avoid harsh scrubbing on matte tiles.
Rinse Properly
Wring rags in clean rinse water frequently as you go. Thoroughly remove all cleaning solution residue which can become sticky or cause hazing if left behind.
Use Grout Brush
For dirty or discolored grout, after cleaning tiles use a narrow-bristled grout brush dipped in cleaning solution. Scrub gently side-to-side. Rinse and repeat as needed.
Dry and Shine
Let floors air dry completely, using clean rags to blot up excess moisture. Buff with a dry microfiber mop to restore the matte sheen.
Clean Tools
After finishing floors, wash tools and hang mops/rags to dry. Don’t leave dirty tools sitting around.
Protect Against Stains
Matte ceramic tile looks gorgeous when clean but some common spills can permanently stain the porous surface. Take these precautions:
- Wipe up food and beverage spills immediately
- Clean oil drips from vehicles right away
- Use doormats and runners to catch tracked-in dirt
- Apply sealer to unglazed terracotta tile
With prompt attention, you can keep any spots from setting and ruining the look of your ceramic flooring.
Deal With Stubborn Stains
Even with your best efforts, stains can sometimes happen. Here are some stain removal techniques:
Oil/Grease Stains
Mix baking soda and water into a spreadable paste. Apply to the stain and let sit 1-2 hours. Scrub gently and rinse. Repeat as needed.
Hard Water Stains
These show as cloudy mineral deposits. Use an acidic cleaner like white vinegar to dissolve them. Rinse thoroughly.
Dried-on Grime
For stubborn dirty buildup, let a mix of ammonia and water sit for 5 minutes. Gently scrub and rinse well. Avoid harsh scrubbing.
Difficult Stains
For stains that won’t budge, seek help from a professional tile cleaner. Avoid abrasive scouring pads or acidic cleaners which can damage matte tiles.
Maintain The Matte Finish
The matte surface on ceramic flooring is prone to wearing, becoming shiny and scuffed over time. Here are some tips to maintain the as-new matte look:
- Use only pH neutral cleaners, nothing too acidic or alkaline
- Don’t use wax or shine-adding products on matte tiles
- Avoid steaming mops which can strip off the matte coating
- Be gentle when scrubbing, don’t scour aggressively
- Consider re-application of matte finish sealer once a year
Bottom Line
There you have it – everything you need to know to keep your matte ceramic tile floors looking fabulous! We hope these cleaning tips help you maintain the beautiful matte finish and keep your tiles shining like new.
Cleaning matte ceramic floors definitely requires some extra care and effort compared to glossy tiles. But it’s worth it for that stylish, soft look matte finish provides. Just be sure to always use gentle cleaners and scrubbing pressure to avoid damaging the tiles over time.
