When cleaning unpolished, matte or honed tiles, it is recommended to sweep or vacuum the floor of all loose dirt, sand and other foreign materials prior to cleaning. If there are contaminants on the surface of the tile that are difficult to remove, it is important to firstly identify the specific spill or contaminant, as different surface contaminants require different cleaning methods and chemicals. The general recommendations are:
saturate the floor with a mild cleaning solution and water, and allow it to stand for 5 – 10 minutes. Do not allow the cleaning solution to dry, and add more water if necessary. It may be best to complete small areas at a time.
Remove the dirty cleaning solution, rinse the surface with clean, clear water and buff with a dry mop or towel.
For contaminants that are difficult to remove, scrub the floor with a floor machine equipped with a nylon pad or bristle brush and cleaning solution. For residential applications and small areas, a hand brush or nylon pad can be used. Remove the dirty cleaning solution and rinse the surface with clean, clear water.
Powder cleaners should not be used as undissolved particles might remain and distract from the natural beauty of unglazed or terracotta tiles.
