Establish a routine to care for
your ceramic tile floor. Vacuum and dust the floor regularly to
prevent dirt and grit buildup, which can damage the surface of the
tile.
Follow vacuuming with a damp
mop or sponge. Use clear water or a non-abrasive cleaner recommended
by the manufacturer. Consider window cleaner for glossy, glazed tile
finishes.
Use solution of water and a
soapless cleaner on unglazed tile floors. Follow cleaner
instructions for optimum results. Wipe up spills on ceramic tile
floors promptly. Rinse the area well with water and dry to prevent
slips and falls.
Clean neglected or excessively
dirty glazed-tile floors with a strong solution of water and
cleaner. Let the soap and water stand for 5 minutes, then scrub the
area with a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly with clear water and wipe
dry.
Treat neglected unglazed tile
floors with a scouring powder paste. Test the scouring paste first
on an inconspicuous area. Then, work in small sections to apply the
paste. Wait 5 minutes and then scrub with a brush. Use a
floor-cleaning machine on large areas.
Clean stained grout with a
removal agent specifically intended for the type of stain.
Engage the services of a
professional tile mechanic to remove and replace broken or damaged
tile. Let the repair sit undisturbed for at least 24 hours before
you grout the surface.