The Best Ways to Clean Homogeneous Tiles

Homogeneous tiles are a common sight in areas that deal with constant water such as bathrooms and pools. As with any other tiles, homogeneous tiles will become dirty and dingy, and will require a thorough cleaning to keep them looking their best and functioning properly. Fortunately, the best cleaning method for homogeneous tiles requires only a few items.

Also known as vitrified tiles, homogeneous tiles are a form of ceramic tile. Fired at higher temperatures then normal ceramic tiles, homogeneous tiles are denser and harder than ceramic tiles, with fewer pores. This makes homogeneous tiles a good choice for areas that typically see heavy traffic and excessive moisture. Homogeneous tiles are available for both indoor and outdoor use and are typically more resistant to stains than ceramic or porcelain tiles.

Wiping the homogeneous tiles with a dry mop on a regular basis will keep the tiles looking their best while removing possible debris --- such as pebbles --- that can scratch the surface of the tiles. Set the head of the dust mop on the homogeneous tiles farthest away from the entrance and move the dust mop in a back-and-forth mopping motion. Continue in this manner while moving the dust mop head toward the entrance.

Available at department stores and home improvement centres, pH-neutral cleaners are neither acid nor base, and are safe for all types of tiles, including homogeneous tiles. Before cleaning the tiles with the pH-neutral cleaner, read and follow all instructions and warnings printed on the cleaner's label. Most pH-neutral cleaners are in a concentrated form and require diluting with water. Refer to the specific cleaner's label for more information. Dampen a terrycloth mop in the mixture, and begin scrubbing the floors with the damp mop in a back-and-forth motion as you normally would. When cleaning the floors, refrain from over-saturating the tiles to prevent possible damage caused by excess moisture.

A common antiseptic, diluted rubbing alcohol will safely and effectively clean ceramic tiles, including homogeneous tiles. Fill a clean 5-gallon bucket with 1 gallon of cold water and pour a capful of the rubbing alcohol in the water. Stir the water and rubbing alcohol together with a spoon. The rubbing alcohol will help remove the grease and dirt build-up from the homogeneous tiles without harsh chemicals that could damage the surface. Mop the tiles with a sponge mop dampened in the mixture as you normally would. After you have thoroughly cleaned the floor, rinse the diluted rubbing alcohol from the homogeneous tiles with cool water, and dry the surface with several towels.