6 steps to help with cleaning tile

It's not surprising that tile, which is as durable as it is beautiful, is a popular material for kitchens and bath spaces.

But the job of cleaning tiles —and the maze of grout that keeps them in place — is decidedly unpopular. In an effort to restore dingy surfaces to like-new brightness, people are often tempted to use cleansers and tools that are tougher than necessary, such as bleach and stiff brushes.

But strong-arm cleaning tactics often create more problems than they solve. They can scratch tiles and damage grout, creating conditions that dull surfaces, invite stains, and make long-term maintenance difficult.

The gentle cleaning techniques outlined below are suitable for ceramic, porcelain, terra-cotta and glass tiles. To get started, you'll need cleaning cloths, a pH-neutral cleanser, a squeegee for each shower, an alkaline cleanser, a grout brush, a grout sealer and a grout poultice and restorer.

Follow these steps, and you'll find that keeping tile and grout clean is a fairly straightforward task —one that might be compared with taking care of your teeth: A little preventive action and regular cleaning with the proper tools will keep them looking good.

1. The moment you spill anything on tile, wipe it up with a damp cloth to keep stains from setting. After showers, wipe down tiles — as well as the shower door — with a squeegee, from top to bottom. This will keep soap scum, lime deposits, rust stains and mold to a minimum.

2. The worst grime actually tends to accumulate on the grout and not the tiles, which are naturally more stain-resistant. Typically made of cement, sand and polymers, grout has microscopic pores that readily trap dirt. The dirt, in turn, is a magnet for mold and mildew, which lead to discoloration. To make grout care easier in the long run, apply a penetrating sealer that protects against water- and oil-based stains. It's best to apply the sealer with a small foam brush; excess can be buffed off the tile and will not leave any lasting residue.

Reapply periodically (the frequency depends on the brand and the wear and tear the surface receives; refer to the label on the sealer for instructions).

3. Every week, sweep or vacuum tile floors to remove dirt and grit, which scratch surfaces. Sponge or mop tiles with a pH-neutral cleanser, which is less harsh than most cleansers, and warm water. Use a grout brush to clean out joints and corners. Rinse well, as grout can absorb cleansers, which will attract dirt. Wipe with a clean, dry cloth.