Over time, tile floors show their age and wear, especially in high-traffic areas in your home. Kitchen and bathroom tiles see a lot of use and catch a lot of messes. Time passes, and evidence accumulates gradually until you’re left with a dull and worn-out floor.
It may seem like replacement is your only option, but that’s not necessarily the case. Instead, opt for these tried-and-true techniques below and learn how to make tile floors shine before you opt for an expensive replacement. Something as simple as swapping out your old mop for a cutting-edge Casabella Clean Water Spin Mop is one step closer to revitalized tile floors.
#1 - Deep Clean
Regularly deep cleaning your tile floors is a great idea. Unfortunately, it’s time-consuming and requires more effort and energy than most people have. A thorough deep cleaning is the first step to bring your tile back to life.
If you don’t know how to clean tile floors most effectively, you can’t get a “real” deep clean. Follow these steps to get the cleanest tiles possible.
- Thoroughly sweep with the Casabella Upright Sweep Set and vacuum.
- Use hot water and gently scrub each tile with a cleaning solution or soap.
- Go over everything with a clean microfiber cloth or mop. It’s easy to do this with a fresh Clean Water Spin Mop Refill.
#2 - Scrub the Grout
Cleaning the grout may be an additional step in the deep cleaning process, but it deserves a category of its own. Grout contributes a lot to the look of tile, and many people forget what clean grout looks like. If you have dark lines separating your tiles, but once upon a time, they were white, your grout seriously needs attention.
Use the same cleaning solution you chose for your tiles to clean grout. Scrub it into the grout with a toothbrush and some elbow grease to get it truly clean. Lemon juice and cream of tartar may also help restore the grout’s natural whiteness.You can also try steam cleaning, grout pens, or special grout scrubbers if the toothbrush and cleaning solution method isn’t yielding your desired results.
#3 - Regrout
If cleaning doesn’t work, you may have to replace the grout. Because it’s so essential to the overall look of a room, dirty grout can’t be left alone if you want your floors to look new again.
Different types and colors of grout are available, so swapping out your old dingy stuff for something new allows you to completely change the look of your floor.
There are different shades and brightness levels within those colors, too, so take some time and decide how alternate grout colors might affect the look of your room.
#4 - Reseal
Resealing your tile extends its lifespan and makes it easier to maintain. After you’ve gone through deep cleaning, scrubbing, and possibly adding in new grout, you’ll want it to last as long as possible.
Think of sealant as a barrier. It keeps out all that dirt and grime you worked so hard to get rid of, preventing messes from penetrating the surface of your tile and grout as quickly. That means less time and money spent on maintenance.
A fresh seal can also change the look of your tile. Depending on your aesthetic, you can go for something glossy or a more matte look. By resealing, you protect your flooring and secure a new look.
#5 - Paint
Try painting if you’re determined to change your tile without replacing it. Before you get started, purchase the correct type of paint. Not every variety is suitable for tile. Follow these basic steps for painted tile.
- Clean and repair damaged tile and grout.
- Remove the glaze with 100 to 150-grit sandpaper.
- Apply a bonding primer.
- Paint with epoxy or tile paint.
Enjoy Your Like-New Tile
Follow all of these great tips to make tile floors shine like they’re brand new – without dropping the money on replacing your flooring. Whether you want to change the appearance of a room or just restore it to its former glory, start with a thorough cleaning with your Casabella Clean Water Spin Mop and go from there.