Tile is one of the most durable surfaces in a home, and a little routine care keeps it looking the way it did on day one.
Everyday cleaning
- Floors: sweep or vacuum grit first, since sand scratches tile and wears grout. Then damp-mop with warm water and a pH-neutral cleaner.
- Showers: squeegee or wipe walls after use to stop soap film and hard-water spots from building up.
- Backsplashes: wipe grease and splashes with a mild cleaner, especially behind the stove.
What to avoid
- Vinegar and acidic cleaners on stone. They etch marble, travertine and limestone.
- Bleach and harsh chemicals on grout. Over time they can break down cement grout and fade colored grout.
- Oil-based soaps and waxes on porcelain. They leave a film that attracts dirt.
- Abrasive pads on glossy or glass tile. They can dull the finish.
Grout care
- Seal cement grout on the schedule the sealer recommends.
- Clean grout lines with a soft brush and a grout-safe cleaner.
- Watch for cracks, especially in showers. Cracked grout lets water behind the tile.
Caulk at corners
The joints where walls meet, and where tile meets a tub, counter or floor, are usually caulked rather than grouted because they move slightly. Caulk wears out faster than grout. Replacing worn or moldy caulk keeps water out.
Ventilation
Run the bathroom fan during and for a while after showers. Good airflow is the easiest way to prevent mildew on grout and caulk.
Keep a few spare tiles
Store a few extra tiles and a note of the grout color and brand. If a tile ever cracks, a matching replacement is much easier to find.