When Can You Walk On Tile After Cleaning? is a frequently asked question for tile owners. Before you start cleaning a tile floor, read these tips to make sure you do everything correctly. Learn the difference between dry and wet cleaning, when to wait until the thin-set is completely cured before walking on the floor, and what to do if the tile is not yet polished. We hope these tips will save you a lot of time!
Dry-cleaning a tile floor
You may want to dry-clean a tile floor before walking on it, especially if you have a wood-looking version. This type of tile is textured, which provides some level of slip resistance but can be more difficult to clean. To clean a wood-looking tile floor, use a neutral-based detergent, a scrub brush with an extended handle, and a wet vacuum. Once you’ve finished cleaning the floor, apply the appropriate sealer to prevent future stains.
You can also use a soft-bristle vacuum attachment to clean porcelain tile floors. While you can use this cleaner for any type of tile floor, it may not fit into tight spaces. You can also use a hand-broom and a dustpan to finish the job. You may want to dry-clean the tile floor once a week, or you can do it twice per year, depending on the type of tile floor.
Wet-cleaning a Tile Floor
To wet-clean a tile floor after walking on it, first, sweep it with a vacuum or mop. Then, spray the floor with a mixture of white vinegar and dish soap. You can also use a cleaner that’s designed for this purpose, like hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, or oxygen-based bleach powder. Afterward, rinse the floor with clean water.
Once a week, vacuum or sweep the floor. If there’s a lot of traffic, you may need to wet-clean the floor more often. Vacuuming or sweeping will remove dust and dirt that might otherwise be tracked across the floor. This can also damage the finishes and dull the shine of your tile floor. Depending on the type of tile floor, you may want to invest in a soft-bristle vacuum attachment. A hand-broom with a dustpan can work just as well.
When wet-cleaning a tile floor after you walk on it, use a solution that contains a mild pH and is designed for use on a tile floor. Avoid using anything that contains abrasive ingredients or abrasives, as these can scratch or discolor the tile. A sponge mop can easily push dirty water into the grout, so use caution.
Waiting for Thin-set To Cure Before Walking on Tile
Before you walk on freshly tiled floors, wait for the thin-set mortar to cure for 24 to 48 hours. Depending on the type of thin-set you use, this could vary from four to eight hours. If you’re putting down tile yourself, it is essential to follow the instructions on the thin-set package. In the event of a wet floor, walking on the tile while it is still wet may cause it to shift.
When applying thin-set mortar to floors, keep in mind that the tile will be exposed to air for 24 hours. The mortar beneath the tiles receives little air, so it will take longer to cure. The space between tiles is a different story. The mortar in between individual tiles is not yet cured and may seem dry and hard, but the mortar is still soft underneath. After cleaning, wait at least 24 hours before walking on the tile.
Cleaning Unpolished Tile
Unlike polished porcelain, unpolished tile has no protective coating. To clean it, mix a half-part vinegar-water solution, using a broom or a sponge. After mopping the floor with the solution, rinse with hot water and a dry dust mop. If heavier soil is present, scrub it with a soft nylon-bristle brush. Commercial cleaning products may be too strong for unpolished porcelain tiles, so dilute them with water before using them.
The first step in cleaning unpolished tile is to sweep away loose dirt. If the tiles are not buffed, use a stiff brush to remove the dirt. Then, use a dry mop, which offers better protection for the tile surface. Repeat the process if necessary, allowing the solution to dry. For stubborn dirt, use a vinegar-water mixture. Once the dirt is removed, follow the steps above to prevent it from coming back.
Final Thoughts
Cosmopolitan Carpet & Rug Cleaning provides the best cleaning services to protect your valuable carpet. They take pride in efficiency and premium services, as well as their dedication to leaving the customer satisfied with excellent workmanship and dependable employees.
