There’s something undeniably satisfying about the look, feel, and texture of brand new flooring. However, that initial beauty doesn’t last forever as wear and tear inevitably take their toll. The good news is that with proper maintenance, you can extend the lifespan and preserve the exquisite appearance of your floor.
Regularly cleaning your slate flooring is essential to maintain its pristine appearance. Dive into this comprehensive step guide to discover the best practices and techniques for effectively cleaning and caring for your slate floors.
Step 1: Thoroughly Sweep the Floor
To begin cleaning your slate floor, start by sweeping or vacuuming the area meticulously. This is crucial as it ensures the removal of all debris, such as dirt, dust, grit, and other materials that may become embedded in the flooring’s pores. Performing this step before mopping is essential, as mopping without sweeping first would only result in making the debris wet, creating a bigger mess than what you initially started with.
Step 2: Prepare Your Floor Cleaner
Once you have swept your flooring and ensured that the area is free from debris, it is time to prepare your floor cleaner. There are several options for your cleaning solution, including mild soap, mild laundry detergent, or a specialized slate cleaner. If you opt for a professional cleaning product, carefully read the instructions before diluting it with water and applying it to your floor.
Grab a bucket and combine your chosen cleaner with warm water, ensuring thorough mixing before use. Consider using steam mops as an alternative option, available at your local hardware store. These mops effectively collect excess condensation and dirt.
Step 3: Mop the Floor
Once you’ve prepared your cleaning solution, it’s time to delicately apply it to your floor using a damp mop. Focus on using smooth and even strokes, ensuring to frequently wring out the mop to maintain clean water application. As you observe the water in your mop bucket becoming soiled, take the opportunity to replace it with a fresh mixture of cleaning solution and water. This practice guarantees the utmost cleanliness for your floor.
Step 4: Drying the Floor
Once you have finished mopping the floor, take a dry rag and thoroughly dry it. This step is crucial as it ensures that any lingering moisture is removed, preventing water stains from forming in the floor’s pores.
Step 5: Enhance with Teak Oil
After ensuring the floor is completely dry, enhance the appearance of the tiles by applying teak oil. Just take a small amount on a clean cloth and gently massage it into the pristine surface. This simple step will elevate the overall look and feel of your tiles.
More tips:
- Avoid using acidic cleaners like vinegar, as they can harm and discolor the stone.
- Steer clear of scrub brushes with stiff or metal bristles, as they can potentially scratch the flooring.
- Opt for clean tools such as mops and sponges when cleaning the floor to prevent the spread of additional dirt.
- Regularly sweep or dust mop your floor as part of your household cleaning routine to prevent the accumulation of debris or dirt that could result in stains.
- For thorough cleaning, it is recommended to use a specialized stone cleaner to achieve optimal results. However, it is important to carefully follow the application instructions to avoid any potential discoloration issues.
Removing Stains
- Clean Spills Immediately: Promptly clean up spills to prevent substances from seeping into porous surfaces. Utilize a soft cloth or towel to address spills as they occur.
- Rub Out Stains: Remove stains by selecting a clean sponge or a scrub brush with gentle, non-metal bristles. Avoid using acidic or abrasive cleaners. Utilize the warm, soapy water left from mopping to effectively scrub away the stains.
- Use hydrogen peroxide: To clean floors with non-colored grout, you can use hydrogen peroxide. Simply mix equal parts water and hydrogen peroxide in a spray bottle. Apply the mixture, allowing it to sit for ten minutes, then gently scrub with a soft pad or brush. Please note that this solution acts as a bleach and may cause colored grout to fade.
- Use peroxide and baking soda: To tackle stubborn stains, create a paste by combining peroxide and baking soda. Allow the bubbles to subside before applying the paste to the affected areas. Let it sit for a few minutes, then gently wipe it away using a soft cloth or towel.
How Often Should You Clean Slate Floors?
For optimal maintenance, it is recommended to clean the slate floor every two to three months. Slate is a delicate material, therefore regular washing with soap and water will effectively remove grime, prevent stains, and eliminate the need for more extensive and challenging cleaning in the future.
At Monreal Maintenance, we provide a top-notch tile cleaning service that will leave your slate tiles looking as good as new. Check out our professional tile cleaning services, we would love to help!