How to Clean Tile Floors and Make Them Shine

Tile floors are tough and water-resistant, but they can look dull if cleaned the wrong way. Most of the time, a cloudy look comes from leftover soap or dirty mop water, not from the tile itself.

What You'll Need

A broom or vacuum
A microfiber mop
A bucket of warm water
A pH-neutral floor cleaner or a few drops of dish soap
A dry microfiber cloth or towel

Step 1: Sweep or Vacuum

Remove dirt and grit first. Grit scratches tile glaze and makes mop water dirty faster.

Step 2: Mop with a Mild Cleaner

Mix a small amount of pH-neutral cleaner or a few drops of dish soap into warm water. Mop in sections, rinsing the mop often.

Change the water when it gets cloudy. Mopping with dirty water spreads grime around.

Step 3: Rinse with Plain Water

Go over the floor once more with clean water to remove any soap residue. This step is what makes tile shine.

Step 4: Dry the Floor

Dry the floor with a dry microfiber mop or towel to prevent water spots.

For Glossy Ceramic Tile

A mixture of 1/2 cup of white vinegar in a gallon of water can boost shine on glazed ceramic tile. Don't use vinegar on natural stone tile.

Don't Forget the Grout

Clean grout lines with a baking soda paste and a brush every few weeks.

What to Avoid

Too much soap
Oil-based cleaners, which make tile slippery
Bleach on colored grout

FAQ

Can I use a steam mop on tile? Yes, on ceramic and porcelain tile with sealed grout.

How often should I mop tile floors? Once a week, more often in kitchens and entryways.