Do you love the look of natural stone floor tiles but have been intimidated by how to go about cleaning them? Natural stone floor tiles can be a beautiful addition to any home, offering an extra touch of elegance and character that ceramic or porcelain tiles just don’t provide.
But when it comes to maintaining their lush texture and stunning shine, this type of tile can require a bit more maintenance than other options. Fortunately, with some daily preventative care as well as periodic deep cleans, keeping your natural stone floor clean doesn’t have to be difficult.
Natural stone floor tiles are a luxurious addition to any home, but due to their porous nature, they require specialized care and maintenance. If you have natural stone flooring in your home, you know that simply mopping won’t be enough to keep them looking spotless. In this blog post, we’ll cover the proper methods of how to clean natural stone floor tiles!
Why is It Important to Clean Natural Stone Floor Tiles?
1 . To Maintain a Healthy Home Environment
It is important to clean natural stone floor tiles regularly, not only for aesthetic purposes but also for health reasons. Natural stone floors are porous and can accumulate dirt, dust, bacteria and other allergens that can have an adverse effect on the air quality of your home. This makes regular cleaning essential both for maintaining good hygiene levels as well as preserving the beauty of your stone floors.
2 . To Remove Stains and Discoloration
Regular cleaning helps to keep natural stone floor tiles free from stains and discoloration that can be caused by spills or everyday traffic. Natural stones are susceptible to staining if not taken care of properly, so using a mild cleaning solution with warm water is an effective way to remove any dirt or grime that might have accumulated over time.
3 . To Reduce Wear and Tear
Cleaning natural stone floor tiles regularly can help reduce wear and tear caused by everyday use, which in turn helps to maintain their longevity. Not only does this make them look better for longer, but it also saves money in the long run as they are less likely to need replacing.
The use of a vacuum cleaner or dust mop can help remove any dirt and debris that has accumulated on the surface, while a mild detergent or cleaning solution should be used for deeper cleaning purposes.
4 . To Enhance Aesthetics
Regular cleaning is also important for maintaining the original appearance and beauty of your natural stone floor tiles. Removing any dirt, dust or other debris that may have built up over time, it restores the stone to its original luster and shine. A good quality cleaning solution specifically made for natural stones can help ward off grime and prevent staining, while also maintaining the overall look of your floors.
How to Clean Natural Stone Floor Tiles in 5 Easy Steps
Step 1: Sweep or Vacuum the Tiles
Before you start cleaning, it’s important to give your natural stone floor tiles a good sweep or vacuum. This will help remove any dirt and debris that can scratch the surface of your tiles when they are being washed.
Step 2: Prepare a Cleaning Solution
Once the area is free from dust and dirt particles, you’ll need to make a cleaning solution. This can be done by mixing together warm water and mild soap or an all-purpose cleaner. Make sure to avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the natural stone.
Step 3: Mop the Tiles
Using your prepared cleaning solution, mop the tiles with a soft, microfiber mop. This will help loosen any dirt and grime that has built up on the tiles. Make sure to rinse frequently while mopping to avoid having excess soap residue left behind.
Step 4: Clean Grout and Crevices
To clean the grout and crevices between your natural stone floor tiles, you’ll need a soft-bristled brush and some of your cleaning solution. Be gentle as you scrub to avoid scratching the tiles.
Step 5: Dry the Area
Once you’ve finished scrubbing, use a clean, dry cloth to thoroughly dry the area. This will help prevent dust, dirt and grime from settling back onto your now squeaky-clean floor tiles.
Some Extra Tips to Clean Natural Stone Floor Tiles
1 . Vacuum Your Natural Stone Tiles Regularly
Vacuuming your natural stone floor tiles is an important part of maintaining their beauty and preventing the build-up of dirt, dust, and debris. Regular vacuuming helps to extend the life of your floor by removing any particles that may cause scratches or dullness. Be sure to use a vacuum with an appropriate attachment for your type of stone tile.
2 . Sweep with a Soft-Bristled Brush
Sweeping regularly is also important in keeping your natural stone floor tiles looking their best. Use a soft-bristled brush or broom to sweep the surface and remove any dirt, dust, and debris that the vacuum may have missed.
3 . Use a Clean, Damp Mop
Once you have vacuumed and swept your natural stone floor tiles, it’s time to mop. Always use a clean, damp mop on your floor tiles. A mild soap or detergent can be used if needed but make sure to rinse with plain water afterwards.
4 . Wipe Spills Immediately
Be sure to wipe up any spills as soon as you notice them on your natural stone floor tiles. Use a clean cloth and warm, soapy water to clean up the spill and then rinse with plain water. If using a cleaner, be sure it is appropriate for your type of tile.
5 . Use Coasters or Trivets
Protect your natural stone floor tiles by using coasters and trivets when serving food and beverages. This will help to prevent staining or etching of the tile surface from spills or condensation.
6 . Avoid Cleaners Containing Acids or Ammonia
Stone tile is delicate and can be easily damaged by strong, acidic cleaners such as those containing lemon juice or vinegar. These cleaners break down the sealant on natural stone floors and cause discoloration. Avoid using these types of cleaners when cleaning your floor tiles to avoid any potential damage.
7 . Avoid Abrasive Cleaners
Using abrasive cleaners such as scrubbing pads or scouring powders can scratch the surface of your natural stone floor tiles. Stick with a clean, damp mop and mild soap for regular cleaning to avoid any potential damage.
8 . Avoid Cleaning in Direct Sunlight
Sunlight can cause fading and discoloration of natural stone floor tiles so it is best to avoid cleaning them in direct sunlight. Keep curtains and blinds drawn during the day to protect your floor from the sun’s rays.
9 . Use a Stone Sealant
Using a stone sealant is important for protecting your natural stone floor tiles from staining, etching, and discoloration. Be sure to read the label on any sealant you use to make sure it is appropriate for your type of stone tile.
10 . Keep High Heels Off the Floor
Heels can cause scratches and indents in natural stone floor tiles so avoid wearing them on your floor. Opt for shoes with rubber or leather soles instead. This will help to protect your floor from any potential damage caused by heels.
11 . Use Rugs and Mats
Rugs and mats are a great way to add style to your room while protecting your natural stone floor tiles from damage. Be sure to use ones with non-skid backing so they stay in place. This will help prevent accidental slips and falls.
12 . Clean Up Pet Messes Immediately
Pet messes can damage your natural stone floor tiles so it’s important to clean them up as soon as possible. Use a cloth and warm, soapy water to collect any messes and then rinse with plain water. Then, use a pet-safe cleaner to disinfect the area.
Following these simple tips will help to keep your natural stone floor tiles looking their best for years to come. Regular maintenance such as vacuuming, sweeping and mopping can go a long way in ensuring your tile floors look like new! Properly sealing the tiles is also important for preventing staining or discoloration.
Conclusion
Cleaning natural stone tiles is a great way to add some style and character to your home. Natural stone floor tiles require special care and maintenance; however, with the right supplies, methods, and patience, you can easily create a stunning look that you will enjoy for years. While it may be intimidating to clean natural stone floor tiles, the rewards are definitely worth it!
Now you know how to clean natural stone floor tiles! With the proper cleaning techniques specifically outlined in this blog post, you’ll be able to keep your stone floor tiles sparkling brightly for longer.
So if you’re looking to increase the aesthetic appeal of your space with natural stone flooring, remember to take extra care when cleaning and always use the appropriate cleaning products. By taking good care of your natural stone floor tiles today, you’ll be able to create a beautiful interior space that stands out for many years!
