How to Mop a Tile Floor Clean

Choose a rag mop for your tile floors.

Less is more when it comes to maintaining your tile floor. A mop and mild cleaning solution are good for day-to-day cleaning. Avoid scouring tools or grainy scrubs for cleaning your tile because they can damage the finish. A simple mopping regime to keep your tile floor clean begins with sweeping or vacuuming your floors of dust and debris at least once a week -- or every day if needed.

Things You'll Need

• Mop
• Bucket
• Soap

Instructions

1. Fill a bucket with warm water. While filling it add a few drops of dish soap to the water. Let it sit for about two minutes so the soap mixes thoroughly with the water.

2. Dip your mop into the bucket of soapy water. Wring the mop out and start to wipe the tile floor in a circular pattern.

3. Dip your mop in the soapy water and ring it out once you have washed a few feet. When the water turns cloudy and dirty, it's time to mix a fresh bucket of water and soap. Dirt and too much soap result in sticky tile floors. Continue until the floor is clean.

4. Empty the bucket out and fill it about half way with water. Dip the mop in and ring it out two or three times so the dirt ends up in the bucket and doesn't stay on the mop.

Tips & Warnings

• A cotton-rayon blend rag mop is a good choice for tile floors. Rag mops cover big areas effectively. A 100 percent cotton mop takes longer to dry than a fiber blend and can encourage bacteria growth

References

• Martha Stewart: Floor Care 101
• Merry Maids: Cleaning Tips