Tile Cleaning Tips

 

  • There is no need to use any soaps, detergents, powders, or chemical cleaners for regular cleaning. In fact, many of these can actually make it harder to keep your tiles clean, especially with prolonged use. If you do decide to use any of the above kinds of cleaners (such as for a more heavy-duty clean), it is important that you rinse thoroughly with clean water to completely remove the cleaner.

  • Soaps (and many detergents that contain soap) can leave a thin film of ‘soap scum’ on the surface of your tiles if they aren’t completely rinsed. This layer of soap can ironically - trap dirt, grease, and can build up over time to the point where your tiles actually appear to change colour.

  • Many chemical cleaners are either acidic or alkaline (base) and, if not properly rinsed, can damage the surface of your tiles or later react with dirt and grease to cause other problems. If you require something a bit stronger for problem areas, we generally recommend Aquamix Concentrated Stone and Tile cleaner and Aquamix Nanoscrub.   

  • Wet areas such as showers have slightly different cleaning needs as they are regularly subjected not just to moisture, but often to body oils, soaps, and higher amounts of dirt as well.

  • A good all-purpose cleaner, a plastic scrubbing brush, and a little elbow grease will remove most regular build-up. Remember always to rinse thoroughly after use of cleaners. A water and vinegar solution is ideal for removing more stubborn hard water deposits. Again, cleaning once a week will generally be often enough.

  • Bacteria and mould can sometimes grow in damp areas, particularly where it is also humid or there is little ventilation. Mould can be removed by spraying or wiping with a chlorine bleach. This should be allowed to stand for 5 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with clean water.

Always read the manufacturer’s directions carefully when using cleaning products.

 

A note to your tiler about the Initial grout cleaning process if you’re choosing Microtec tiles

Because microtec tiles have an anti-slip surface, a thorough grout cleaning process is required and we highly recommend the use of Aqua Mix Grout Release.

When Grouting:

  1. It is important to start wiping off excessive grout approximately 15 minutes after application or when grout begins to harden.
  2. A water change should be conducted every 4m2. This helps to remove the polymer from grouting, which causes dirt and debris sticking to the tile surface.
  3. A microfibre cloth is recommended to be used to buff-off grout residue after the surface becomes dry.
  4. Aquamix grout haze cleaner is recommended to be used if there is still grout haze or other stubborn marks after the above process. For Epoxy grout, Aquamix Sealer & Coating remover is recommended.

    Once the above steps have been completed, the tiles can be cleaned normally