Luxury is in the details and luxury floor tiles are an easy way to add resplendence to any space. With their aesthetic looks and durability, they aren’t a hard sell but require care to keep them looking good. Here’s how to make your tiles last.
General Cleaning Tips
Your cleaning ritual should include a sweep with a soft broom or vacuum, removing debris that could scratch the surface. For a deeper cleaning, a mop and a gentle cleaner, once a week, will do. Ideally, the cleaner should be in the pH range of 7-8. A mild soap works well as a suitable cleaning product, depending on the type of tile.
Marble is porous and requires a mild soap mixture, while limestone has pH restrictions and will need a stone cleaner. Porcelain tile is known for its durability and almost any tile cleaner should work, preferably the gentle stuff. Keep bleach and acidic chemicals away from marble and limestone as they can dissolve them. Use a microfiber mop that is gentle and safe to use with a tile-cleaning solution.
Dealing with Specific Issues
Spills and Stains: Clean up spills quickly before they sink in and become a nuisance. Always blot the stain with a soft cloth — no rubbing, or it will spread. A gentle cleaning solution of baking soda and water will lift some stains from the surface.
Scratches and Surface Damage: Avoid scratches with doormats and padding on furniture feet, and avoid dragging heavy furniture on the floor. Should scuffs occur, you can shine with a good marble polishing powder.
Grout Care: Clean the grout properly, or the tile will look dull and dusty. A paste of baking soda and water with a gentle scrub can remove grout stains. Seal the grout at least once a year to keep it looking fresh.
Long-Term Maintenance
A deep clean and proper resealing are necessary every 6-12 months, depending on use and the type of tile. A professional tile cleaning service will do the best job cleaning the grout lines and mopping the tiles. Inspections can alert you to damage that could be patched quickly before extensive repairs are necessary.
Specific Care for Different Types of Luxury Tiles
Marble Tiles: Soft and silky marble needs special care. Use a marble polishing powder to get that shine back.
Limestone Tiles: Limestone needs a gentle pH-neutral cleaning. The surface must be sealed frequently to protect the stone.
Porcelain Tiles: Durable and maintenance-friendly, porcelain needs only a good mopping and stone cleaner.
Slate Tiles: A smooth finish is what makes slate popular. Keep it that way with regular sweeping and the occasional use of a damp mop. Keep those wax and sealing products away.
Preventative Measures
Protective Mats and Rugs: Dust will trail in with feet, but you can trap most of it at the entrance with a mat. Also, place rugs in the high-traffic areas to help prevent wear.
Furniture Pads: Attach pads to furniture legs to prevent scratches and dents.
Regular Sealing: Certain tile types, notably marble and limestone, should be sealed to help form a protective barrier against damaging moisture and spills.
Dos
- Clean spills immediately
- Use pH-neutral cleaners
- Sweep or vacuum regularly
- Seal tiles and grout annually
Don’ts
- Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners
- Don’t use steel wool or hard brushes
- Avoid dragging heavy objects across the floor
Conclusion
Cleaning and proper maintenance are key to preserving the beauty of your luxury floor tiles. Immediate attention to spills and appropriate professional service will help retain their luxury.