There are several types of ceramic tiling and each one should be cleaned and maintained in a different way to keep it at its best. It will also make a difference as to the type of cleaning you will have to do on the tiling depending on where it is placed either on the floor or on the wall of a kitchen or bathroom. It is important for you to know exactly what type of cleaning you need to do on the tiling you have because if you use the wrong cleaning method then you can cause damage to the tiling.
There are two main types of tiling the glazed and the un-glazed each have different uses but the un-glazed tiling tends to need higher maintenance than the glazed. This is because the un-glazed tends to be used in high usage areas with more traffic such as swimming pools, floors, counter tops and fire places, where as the glazed is mainly used just on floors and walls.
Below is some more information on the types of tiling and the basic cleaning and maintenance they need on a regular basis and what you can do if you haven't maintained it correctly and its now starting to look worn;
Cleaning Glazed Tiling
It is mainly the grout on the tiling that begins to discolour and become dirty easiest because of the fact it is porous so soaks up fluids and general dirt very quickly. This can become a problem if left as it can cause mildew and mould but with basic cleaning you can keep your tiling looking at its best.
A major problem with glazed tiling especially because it is mainly used in areas such as showers is mildew although this is a simple thing to prevent if regular cleaning is done. You need to be sure not to use anything too abrasive as this can cause a dulling or can damage the finish. Most products state whether they are suitable for ceramics so be sure to check before using it. For the cleaning of the tiles you can simply take some of the cleaning solution on a damp cloth and wipe over the tiles and grout making sure to dry it properly after with a clean, dry cloth.
Cleaning Tile Grout
When the cleaning has been neglected and the tiling and grout there fore begin to become stained and mouldy the tiling will require more vigorous cleaning methods. There are several methods including high strength cleaning solutions that you leave on the stained grout for a length of time until the solution is dried then scrub gently with a tough bristle brush, rinse with clean water and dry with a clean cloth.
Cleaning Methods for Un-Glazed Tiles
This type of tiling requires more maintenance than the glazed type because it is more absorbent so there fore stains a lot easier. The cleaning method you should use depends on where it is placed if on the walls you should use a slightly damp cloth with a soap less cleaner. However, if on the floor it is a higher traffic area and so you would have to vacuum regularly and then use a cleaning solution with a scrubbing brush across the whole area. Once cleaned make sure you dry the whole area properly if it is a very large area then you may want to ventilate the room it is in.
There are obviously certain tiles that require a specific kind of cleaning and won't be able to use some cleaning products on them. So the main thing when cleaning your tiling and grout is to make sure you choose the right cleaning product and method so you don't damage the tiles.