This page is a generic guide for people who don’t know exactly what sort of surface they have – if you follow these guidelines, you’ll get a clean surface without any problems. However if you know what sort of stone or tile you have, please refer to the relevant “How to” guide.
Cleaning Tiles / Cleaning Stone indoors – regular cleaning
- Vacuum
- Damp clean
Vacuum or wipe the surface to get rid of dust or grit that could scratch.
Clean the area with a damp (not wet) mop or cloth – preferably microfibre.
If you are using microfibre you will not need to use any cleaning chemicals – just warm water. The mop or cloth will ‘grab’ the surface and lift off most daily grime. Use some pressure to work the microfibre – floating it lightly over the surface will not be so productive! Slique highly recommends microfibre as the best tool available for cleaning tiles or cleaning stone at home.
If you are using a regular soft mop or cloth you might need to add some neutral pH chemical to your warm water, such as Slique Cleansing Fluid. Whatever chemical you use, make sure to read the label first to ensure that it is neutral and non-abrasive. Always test a small amount in an inconspicuous place first to make sure the chemical is safe to use. Do not use scouring pads or hard mops / cloths.
Cleaning Tiles / Cleaning Stone indoors – intensive cleaning
Use when required for a deeper clean.
- Vacuum
- Scrub
- Soak
- Extract
- Rinse
- Dry
- Check grout lines
Vacuum or wipe the surface to get rid of dust or grit that could scratch.
Scrub a small area (about 3-4 square metres) using a light solution of tile cleaner suitable for your tiles, such as Slique’s Heavy Duty Tile cleaner. Your local tile shop will have something suitable for tile cleaning home use. Use a soft brush or broom to work the solution into the pores of the tiles and grout. Continue to complete small areas until the entire surface has been scrubbed.
Leave the solution to work for several minutes, then scrub again.
When the solution has lifted out the dirt, remove the liquid and dirt using an old towel or clean, dry mop.
Pour clean water over the surface to rinse.
DO NOT leave the surface to dry naturally. Use a clean cloth or mop to soak up any water.
Sometimes a surface looks dirty, but it’s actually only the grout lines that need attention. Use a microfibre tile and grout sponge to quickly and easily clean dirty grout lines.
In the event of a spill:
Dab the spill off the surface – do not rub or wipe as it will spread the stain. Pour clean water onto the area to neutralize the stain. Allow the water to sit for no more than 1 minute. Dab the water dry, and repeat as necessary.