The Biggest Mistakes Everyone Makes When Mopping And Maintaining Tile Floors

If you've noticed that your tile floors look cloudy after mopping, don't automatically assume that your mop is the culprit. While an outdated mop can definitely leave your tiles looking less than perfect after a cleaning session, it's possible that crucial cleaning mistakes could be why your floors aren't sparkling. Some common mistakes you should avoid include not sweeping and vacuuming first, using too much water when mopping, and using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.

Before throwing that mop out in the trash, learn more about the most common tile cleaning mistakes and how to avoid them. It might just save you the cost of a new mop and perhaps the cost of new flooring. Since tile flooring can last 20 years or more, it's crucial to learn how to clean and maintain it properly. Fortunately, most dirty tile floors can be brought back to their former glory, and you can ensure they stay that way with mopping tips that will keep your floors looking like new.

When thinking about how you really should be cleaning your tile floors, the number one priority is to sweep or vacuum regularly. Many people skip this step, thinking it'll save time spent cleaning. However, not taking care of the dust, dirt, and debris before mopping could cause scratches on the tile's surface. Additionally, this debris can get stuck in the grout, causing unsightly discoloring and making your flooring appear even dirtier. For optimal cleaning and scratch avoidance, vacuum or sweep tile floors at least once a week, especially right before mopping.

Many think using a soaking-wet mop to clean their tile flooring is best. However, this is actually a big mistake that can make your floors look dingy. Grout is porous—the more water you use, the more water the grout lines absorb. This can ultimately lead to mildew, mold, or even subflooring problems. To keep your tile and grout looking their best, use a damp mop and a towel to dry up the floor afterward. 

For especially dirty or stained tile floors, avoid using harsh or abrasive chemical cleaners, which can actually damage tiles by removing the protective sealant from their surface. This leaves them vulnerable to more staining and damage and can shorten their lifespan. Instead, opt for a pH-neutral cleaner that is safe for tile flooring.