Tiles are the unsung heroes of the kitchen. They go a long way in unifying the room’s design. They can add a pop of color or interest. They can make the space look sophisticated or cozy. Tiles are also effective as a backsplash. They make the space behind the stove or sink easier to clean.
It only makes sense to take care of kitchen tiles given the benefits they provide. Regular cleaning and maintenance also extend the life of the tiles. A buildup of grime and dust will damage the seal and cause the material to break down. Clean tiles are safe tiles too. Grease and dirt will result in slippery tiles. That’s not a good thing to have in kitchens.
Your family’s health is also on the line if you allow kitchen tiles to become dirty. Fungi and bacteria thrive in wet environments. These microscopic dangers cause bad odors and will make you sick. It’s why regular cleaning is a must. It’s also vital to sanitize tiles. You can hire a home sanitizing service or do it yourself.
The good news is tile cleaning is part and parcel of any residential cleaning service. Professionals can do the cleaning, but you can also do it yourself if you want to save money. Cleaning tiles is easy to do, especially if it’s done on a regular basis. Doing so will prevent the oil and muck from accumulating.
The question now is how to go about it. Read on for some cleaning tips you can use.
Know What is on Your Walls
You need to check what type of tile is on your kitchen wall and floor. A professional cleaning service should check before they start cleaning. Most tiles can become cleaned with regular cleaners but some need specialized care. For example, you can’t use lemon or vinegar-based solutions on marble. But porcelain tiles are fine with vinegar and water solution.
Go for the Sweep
Make sure you sweep tiled floors on a regular basis. Sweeping them with a soft-bristled broom every day is ideal. This prevents the tiles from becoming dull. You can also use a vacuum if you prefer. Many of today’s tiles are resistant to dust and dirt. But the grit and sand that you track in can dull the surface of glazed tiles.
Scrub Them Often
The best way to keep tiles sparkling is to clean them often. It would be nice if you can do it once a day, but once a week scrubbing is also good. Start by washing tiles with a soapy cloth. This will get rid of stick marks and surface dirt. If you need something heavier, use the rough side of a pan cleaner.
Dealing with stubborn grease? Mix a small amount of bicarbonate soda and water. Make a paste and scrub it on the greasy deposit. Wipe it with a clean cloth to remove the residue. Buff the tiles with a microfiber cloth.
Deal with Grout
Dirty grout will ruin the look of any kitchen. Kitchen grouting is often spared from mold problems. But it tends to turn an orange or grubby gray color. A good scrubbing with an old toothbrush is what the doctor ordered. Dilute some bleach with water. Spray on the grout and scrub. Rinse well. It can be tedious using a small brush but it’s worth it.
You can also use a bicarbonate soda and vinegar cleaning solution as well. Another alternative is to use whitening toothpaste. It acts as an abrasive and will keep it sparkling too!
Regular Maintenance is Key
Regular cleaning maintenance will make tile cleaning go faster and easier. Try to sweep or vacuum kitchen floor tiles every day. In addition, make it a habit to wipe your backsplash clean every time you finish cooking or washing the dishes. Using a disinfectant will help prevent the buildup of germs and grease. It’s also a good idea to clean up spills as soon as you can. Aside from preventing slips, it will also stop stains from forming.
Go Natural
You can still keep kitchen tiles looking sharp between professional cleaning. You don’t even need to buy any special tools or cleaning products. Some of the best cleaning solutions are in your pantry now.
Oranges are an excellent way to clean tiles and leave your kitchen smelling great. Don’t throw those orange peels away. Place them in a container. Add a quart of vinegar and close the container. Let it seep for two weeks. Fill half a spray bottle with this solution. Fill the rest with water and use it to clean tiles and other kitchen fixtures.
Love the smell of peppermint? You can make your own minty cleaning solution. Mix equal parts of white vinegar, water, and rubbing alcohol in a container. Add half a teaspoon of liquid dishwashing soap. Mix in a few drops of peppermint oil. Use the mixture to clean tiles. The space will smell like Christmas. It will also deter mice and ants.
You can also remove molds and mildew with lemons. Mix equal parts of baking powder and lemon juice together. Spread this lemon powder paste on the moldy area. Leave it for several hours.
To Sum It Up
Clean and well-maintained tiles translate to a lovely kitchen. It also ensures your family’s health and safety. Kitchen and wall tiles will also last longer. The space will remain beautiful for a longer time. You’ll also save money in the long run.
