How to Care for Your New Tile to Keep it Looking New

Seeing a scratch or stain on your new tile can be disheartening. 

But with the right care and maintenance, you can keep your tiles looking new for years to come. 

Stick around as we dive into maintaining your tiles’ pristine condition and ensuring their longevity.

Choose the Right Cleaning Products

Tiles may look durable, but the type of cleaner you choose affects its longevity. It’s best to avoid products formulated with harsh chemicals. Contrary to common belief, pH-neutral cleaners are effective albeit gentle. 

However, in the case where you need to use stronger cleaners, do it only on tiles that can handle the extra strength without getting dulled or damaged.

Keep Grout Clean

Grouts are magnets for dirt and grime, indeed. However, if you manage to keep it clean, it will help maintain the overall look of your tile. A clean grout line certainly enhances the looks of your flooring.

To do this, try making a paste with baking soda and water. Apply it with a toothbrush, and for tougher stains, add a little hydrogen peroxide. 

Applying a sealant every year or two can prevent staining and cleaning easier. 

This is similar to the maintenance required for granite countertops, where regular sealing is also essential.

Incorporate Low-Maintenance Routines

A little bit of daily care such as sweeping or mopping can go a long way. 

Keep it gentle, by only using soft materials like soft-bristle broom and a microfiber mop. 

Always sweep in one direction, and when you mop, use warm water. You won’t believe how much dirt you can get when you start using warm water, and not just soaking the tiles. 

You also have to be careful not to soak your tiles too much. Excess water can seep into grout lines, and this can cause damage.



Prevent Tile Damage

When moving a heavy item, you can use devices like furniture lifter roller sliders. And if you have pets, it would also help when you keep their nails trimmed to protect your floors.

It would also be helpful to use furniture pads under the legs, and try placing rugs in high-traffic areas for it to absorb the impact and protect your tiles.

However, while rugs can protect your tiles, they can also trap dirt and allergens. This is why it would be beneficial to hire a professional carpet cleaner to ensure your rugs remain clean, ensuring a healthy home environment and your tiles stay protected. 

For top-notch cleaning, consider Tubro Carpet Cleaning. They serve both homes and businesses, offering carpet and upholstery cleaning, pressure washing, and more. If you are not satisfied with our service, we’ll work until you are. 

Spot Cleaning and Stain Removal

The faster you address spills, the less likely they are to stain. Blot spills before cleaning the area with a mild detergent. 

For organic stains, baking soda is one of the best choices, while hydrogen peroxide can tackle mold and mildew.

And if you are dealing with persistent stains, and can’t seem to identify where it’s coming from, it’s best to call a professional.

They can provide deep cleaning or repair services that are beyond the scope of routine maintenance.

For more comprehensive cleaning, you might also want to consider replacing your home's carpet with luxury vinyl plank flooring.



Care for Different Tile Types

Different materials have their unique needs.



Ceramic Tiles

Regular sweeping, damp mopping with a mild cleaner, and immediate spill cleanup would be enough to maintain them. For this reason, ceramic tiles are renowned for their durability and ease of maintenance.

Porcelain Tiles

While similar to ceramic, it’s more dense, which makes them even more resistant to moisture and wear. It’s recommended to use a mild detergent and avoid abrasives to maintain their sleek finish.

Natural Stone Tiles

Natural stone tiles require a bit more TLC. It is advised to include regular sealing to prevent stains and water damage. Simpler maintenance routines are cleaning spills immediately and using cleaners specifically designed for natural stone.

For those considering a major home renovation, check out Preparing Your Home for a Remodeling Project.

Conclusion

In conclusion, maintaining the new look of your tiles does not require expensive purchases or extensive labor. It’s about choosing the right products, keeping up with simple daily routines, and knowing how to deal with accidents quickly and efficiently. 

If you’re considering a remodel or need expert advice on installing and caring for new tiles, Turbo Construction is your go-to partner. With a wide range of services from installation to comprehensive remodels, our team ensures your project is handled with professionalism and precision. Contact Tubro Construction today to start planning your next home improvement project.