Opaque tile floors can make a room feel dirty even when you finish cleaning. The tiles lose brightness for a variety of reasons, including the shiny surface damage and dirt. The cleaning can leave a film inadequate resulting in dull and faded tiles, which can be solved with the correct cleaning method. Most floors are ceramic tiles, although there are options in porcelain, stone and linoleum. All tile floors except linoleum, respond well to the same cleaning methods.
Instructions
- Daily sweeps the floors with a mop. Dirt particles left on the floor can scratch the tile, ruining the shine and gives them an opaque appearance permanently.
- 1/4 cup vinegar mixture with 1 gallon (3.8 liters) of water if the tiles are opaque because of the fat, hard water or dirt buildup. Clean the floors with a sponge mop and vinegar solution.
- Returns to clean the floors with clean water. Wring the mop frequently and change the water if it gets dirty or cloudy. Mops with dirty water left behind a thin film that reduces glare from the floor.
- Mix one or two squirts of dishwashing detergent with 1 gallon (3.8 liters) of water if the floor is opaque, but not dirty. Clean the floors with this solution. Do it again with clean water to remove remaining detergent.
Tips & Warnings
- Commercial cleaners for tiles are also available. Use only cleaners formulated for specific material for your floors.
- Do not use vinegar on linoleum, since the acid product can damage the surface. Use detergent and water to restore the luster of this material.