Choose the Right Tools

• The cleaning tools you use on your tile floor make all the difference. Choose a soft-bristle broom for pre-cleaning. Stiffer brooms can actually scratch your tile and lead to cracks. You should be able to bend the bristles of your broom easily from the side. Avoid straw brooms. Their bottoms are uneven, forcing you to press down harder on the surface.
  
  Select a cotton-topped mop for damp cleaning, or a microfiber mop without the scrub strip. This will prevent any chance of scratching or scaring. Most sponge mops have hard exposed areas. These areas can cause dark marks and gouges.
  
  To get in tight corners, use a soft toothbrush or a child's toothbrush. Make sure that it is clean, and preferably new. A child's toothbrush has a smaller handle, making it easier to manipulate into small spaces.
  
  A simple white, cotton rag will work in lieu of a mop. Simply wipe your floor in a circular motion. This method requires more physical activity, but eliminates any worry of harming your floors.
  
  

Choose The Right Cleaner

• Using the wrong cleaner can dull your shiny, tile floor. To maintain that lustrous look, mix white distilled vinegar and warm water in a on-to-three ratio and gently stir. Mop as usual. Change your water when it darkens, or when you can see debris when you wring your mop. This inexpensive and simple mixture will remove any debris, while leaving the floor with an impeccable shine. If you are bothered by the smell, rinse your floors with warm water.
  
  

Warnings

• Your tile floor is not designed to withstand chlorine bleach. The bleach can break down the no-wax finish, leaving it dull and aged. This can lead to cracking. Along with bleach, full-strength commercial cleaners meant for countertops and sinks can also damage the flooring. Most of these cleaners contain abrasives, ammonia or bleach, none of which are proper for cleaning tile. Read the directions on all products before using them to mop, as even those intended for floors usually must be diluted with water.
  
  Do not use scouring tools. The abrasive fibers can remove the finish and form tiny scratches. These scratches allow dirt, debris and germs to gather, eventually leading to a dirty appearance.
  
  Before using an industrial scrubber, carefully read all the directions. The cleaning solution designed for the machine may contain harsh chemicals designed to kill mold, mildew and ground-in dirt. These substances are not safe for your tile. If you wish to use an industrial machine, consult the rental agent about using your own vinegar and water solution.