Ceramic & Porcelain
When cleaning tiles, do not use any harsh abrasives, such as scouring powder, as these cleansers may scratch and damage the tile's surface. Unless a cleanser's label specifically reads that the cleanser is safe for use on tiled surfaces, do not use the product.
For more severely grimy tiles and grout, where mild detergent cleaning does not cleanse thoroughly, you can use a solution made of chlorine bleach and water to remove any dirt present. Before making this solution, be sure that the environment that you will be working in is well ventilated. Additionally, it is advisable that you place strong rubber gloves on your hands especially if you will be cleaning walled surfaces.
To make the solution, take one quart of chlorine bleach and mix it into two-gallons of water in a bucket. Once mixed, let the solution sit for approximately 15-20 minutes. Next, if cleaning walls, take a sponge or, if cleaning floors, a mop or soft bristle brush, and dip the tool into the solution. Take the sponge or mop/brush and rub it all over the dirty areas. Once all of the areas have been covered by the solution, let the solution remain on the surfaces, untouched, for approximately 10-20 minutes depending on the amount of grime present. After the time has elapsed, rinse down the whole area with plain water. Next, use the mild detergent and water solution procedure, explained previously, to remove any remaining traces of chlorine bleach. Finally, rinse down the area again using only plain water. Once all of the detergent solution has been rinsed away, wipe down the tiled surfaces with a clean cloth to dry the area thoroughly.
Granite & Stone
Clean up generally needs only warm water and a mild liquid detergent.
Most general purpose cleaners will etch or damage the stone or degrade the sealer, therefore removing protective properties and becoming susceptible to stains.
Maintenance cleaning with a pH-balanced, neutral cleaner will help remove soils that normal dusting or damp mopping leave behind. It also helps keep your stone free of dust and dry, sandy soil to minimize wear patterns from everyday use on some softer stones
Specially designed cleaners for stone will also never break down the protective sealer. In fact, some cleaners contain protective properties which reinforce the sealer and prolong stain resistance.
For heavier cleaning jobs, using cleaners formulated for stone will effectively remove tough grime and messes yet be gentle on the surface.
Dulled or lightly scratched areas can be restored by using automotive rubbing compound and waxing with liquid wax. Some fabricators recommend giving the entire surface area a coat of an automotive type paste wax from time to time to help maintain appearance, but this is usually not needed.
The main problem with granite is that oils that can be absorbed and discolor the stone. If the surface appears to be discolored, a poultice is available for lifting oil stains.
If it is a color stain, bleach can be used, but remember that cleaning methods must be used consistently. Do not use bleach today, and then use an ammonia based product tomorrow.
Marble
Mix liquid dishwashing detergent with warm water and use a sponge to clean your marble. Be sure to thoroughly rinse to remove all soap residue -- a buildup could damage the stone, according to the Marble Institute of America. Then buff dry with a soft cloth; never air-dry.Anything acidic -- like lemon, vinegar or bathroom cleansers -- can eat into marble. Hair dyes may also leave permanent stains. And the alcohol in aftershave lotions and perfumes can cause etching. |