Porcelain wood tiles look like natural hardwood but need much less maintenance. They are strong, easy to clean, and come in sizes that let you create unique patterns, adding extra style to your space. They are available in many colours and patterns to choose from; these tiles can make any room feel warm and cozy. Unlike real wood, they are mostly preferred for damp areas like kitchens, bathrooms, entryways, mudrooms, and laundry rooms. That’s why wood-look porcelain tiles are so popular today. In this article, we will learn how to clean wood look porcelain floor tile for a long-lasting shine,
Make sure that your tile is porcelain only. Check whether your tiles are actually porcelain and not a laminated wooden floor. Test your tiles by spilling a small amount of water on them. If the tile absorbs the water drops, then it is porcelain. Also, check by scratching it with a nail. If the tile leaves a mark, then it is not porcelain.
There is another way of testing without bothering the floor tiles in your living space. If you have a loose tile, check whether the back of the tile is smooth. If the tile is smoother at the back, then it is porcelain.
Before cleaning your porcelain tiles, remove any dust from the surface. If you have a pet, get rid of any pet hair as well. The best and most effective way is to use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment. Set the vacuum to “auto” and use it in a crisscross pattern over the tiles so that you won’t leave any residue from the grout lines.
If some dust or pet hair is still remaining, use a rubber broom. If you don’t have it, a regular soft- broom can also be used. The goal is to ensure the surface is completely dust-free before cleaning.
Once the dust is removed, you can start the floor cleaning process. First, choose a cleaning product. Professional floor cleaning chemicals that are made for porcelain tiles are also recommended, as they are designed to clean the grout between the tiles.
If you are looking for a natural approach, use a solution of equal parts vinegar and water. You can also use warm water, but it may not be as effective for tough stains, grime, or excess grout on porcelain tiles.
Once you have your cleaning solution or water ready, start mopping. A squeegee mop is the best choice to avoid spreading dirty water on the floor. If you don’t have one, you can use a clean cloth or a regular mop. Dip the mop or cloth into the cleaning solution, wring it well, and mop the floor. Be careful not to make the tiles too wet. Make sure that the cleaning solution covers the tile’s surface properly.
You can fill a spray bottle with the cleaning solution and spray it on the floor to avoid excess moisture. For an effective cleaning, you can leave the cleaner on the floor for some time.
After mopping with the cleaning solution, use a clean cloth to remove any residue left behind. Dampen the cloth with water and rinse the tiles, removing any remaining cleaner. Some cleaning agents don’t need rinsing, so you can skip this step and move to drying the tiles.
Let the tiles dry on their own, or use a fan to speed up the process. Open windows for better airflow, or use a blow dryer. Another option is to take a soft, dry cloth and gently wipe the tiles until they are dry.
After cleaning the tiles, check whether there are any spots left behind. It is advisable to remove the spots and stains as soon as possible. Sometimes, a general cleaning won’t remove stains, especially if they are existing for a very long time. Start by removing the residue with a damp cloth soaked in warm water. Next, apply your tile cleaning solution to the stain and let it sit. Gently scrub the stain with a sponge until it’s gone. After that, wipe the area with a clean damp cloth to remove any leftover cleaning solution. Let the stained area dry.
If you are looking to transform your space with durability and beauty, do not hesitate to reach us. At Markham Tiles, we have an array of tiles according to your style and preferences. Whether you are upgrading your living area, kitchen, or bathroom, we offer stylish and affordable porcelain wood floor options. Contact us today for a free quote.
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