Learning how to clean rough floor tiles can be a difficult process, but we’ve got 2 methods that can do the trick.
The first involves using a steam mop, and the other requires a solution of baking soda with vinegar spray.
Let’s jump right into it so you can get your floor looking like new.
What Are Rough Floor Tiles?
Rough floor tiles are referred to as textured floor tiles and the term is used to describe tiles that have an uneven surface.
These rough tiles are commonly found in areas around the home that are likely to get wet, such as the bathroom, as they are less slippery due to their texture. They are also becoming increasingly popular in interior design as they offer an unconventional, unique aesthetic.
Why Are They So Difficult To Clean?
So, what makes rough tiles such a pain to clean?
The problem with cleaning rough tiles is that they have a larger surface area that is uneven. This promotes a build-up of dirt that is also harder to remove as conventional cleaning methods such as using a mop and bucket becomes much less effective.
If you’ve ever tried to clean a rough tile with a mop you will understand the frustration, but what are the alternatives?
Method 1 – Steam Mop Cleaning
The first method to try is steam cleaning using a steam mop.
Now, steam mops can be expensive but they are a worthwhile investment if you have a sufficient surface area of rough tiling. They can also be super useful if there are other areas of your home where you can use them.
If this option is not applicable to you, then our other method can do the trick as well so skip right there. If not, we’ve covered the steps to follow for steam cleaning your rough tiles below.
1. Vacuum
The first stage before steam cleaning is to vacuum thoroughly to remove any debris and dirt that is present on the floor.
Even if it looks clean to the eye, there will still be a surprising amount of dust laying there especially if you do not regularly vacuum – so make sure you don’t skip this stage. Debris can also damage steam mops, which is another reason not to skip this step.
2. Steam Clean
After vacuuming it’s time to steam clean.
The first step here is to apply a clean microfibre pad to the steam mop. After this, you are ready to begin cleaning.
Steam cleaning with a mop is very easy, simply work in large slow motions and wear fresh socks to keep the floor clean as you go. Try not to stand on areas that have been cleaned and you’ll be good to go.
3. Allow The Floor To Naturally Dry
Once cleaning is done let your floor dry for about 10 minutes to make sure that no moisture is left on the surface.
Once you’ve happy that the floor is completely dry it can be used like normal.
Method 2 – Deep Cleaning With A Cleaning Solution
If you don’t have a steam mop on hand then cleaning your rough tiles will take a bit more work, but it can be done – check out the steps below.
1. Prepare The Cleaning Solutions
For this method, we are going to use a combination of vinegar and baking soda.
Firstly, mix baking soda and water to create a consistency similar to toothpaste. The amount that you need to make depends entirely on the surface area of the floor that you need to clean.
Once this has been mixed, pour pure undiluted vinegar into an empty spray bottle – the amount again depends on the area you need to clean.
2. Apply The Baking Soda To The Tiles
Evenly apply the baking powder paste over the entirety of the floor. This can be done either by hand or with a clean mop, and once applied needs to be left to dry.
3. Clean With Vinegar And Baking Soda
Once the baking soda has dried generously spray the vinegar all over the floor. This will cause a reaction between the baking soda and vinegar that will help to clean the tiles, even in the uneven sections.
After you have sprayed the entire floor leave the solution to work for between 10 and 20 minutes.
4. Extra Scrubbing (If Required)
If your floor is especially dirty you may need to use a brush to scrub areas where there are large build-ups of dirt and grime.
This is done with a scrub brush and a solution of vinegar diluted in excess warm water. Simply wash the brush in the solution and work it into any areas that have not been affected by the baking soda.
This step is usually only necessary for the worst cases.
5. Rinse The Surface And Dry
Use a mop with hot water to remove the solution from the tiles. After this, a towel can be used to get into any cracks or areas where the mop has missed to fully remove all of the solution.
Final Thoughts
Hopefully, you are now armed with the methods to clean any rough tiles. If you have any other favourite methods then we are always interested to know, and don’t hesitate to contact us here!