How to Clean Floor Tiles

Cleaning tile floors isn't any more difficult than cleaning wood or laminate, but there are differences in the equipment you'll need and technique. With regular cleanings and an occasional professional grout steaming, your tile floors will look as beautiful as the day you installed them. Here's how to clean tile floors.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Broom and dustpan
• Damp, clean mop
• Bucket of water mixed with rubbing alcohol and a household cleaner
• Heavy duty cleaner for stains

1. Sweep up or vacuum any loose dirt.

2. Buy a mop made from cloth strips or coiled yarn. Other mops--like the Swiffer and sponge mops--won't be as effective if your tiles sit above the grout line. You need the multiple strands to dig into the grout and loosen up dirt.

3. Get your bucket ready. If you're just doing a gentle cleaning, plain hot water will do the trick. If there's a fair amount of dirt build-up, mix in some alcohol and some household cleaner.

4. Remove stains using a heavy duty floor cleaner free of bleach. Spot treat them using a small sponge or even an old toothbrush.

5. Wash your floors one more time with plain water. You need to use water to wash away the residue of the household cleaner so it doesn't stain or eat away at your tile. Air dry.

6. Professional grout cleaning might be necessary if your grout is black and your tiles don't look much cleaner after a thorough wash. Experts recommend professional cleanings about every five years, depending on usage.