Do You Clean Ceramic Tile With a Sponge Mop?
- A sponge mop will be effective on a ceramic tile floor where the grout and tile sit completely flush with each other on the surface. For a flat surface, a damp sponge mop will effectively wipe away surface dirt and dust and can even be used to lightly scrub at stains on the surface. You can also use the sponge mop for daily or weekly light cleanings that basically involve wiping away quick spills or a little bit of built-up dirt or dust.
- Sponge mops prove ineffective on tile surfaces where the grout lines are lower than the tiles. If you run your hand along your tile surface and it feels bumpy, the sponge mop may not work for you. Instead, the mop will simply push the dirty water on the surface into the grout lines, creating a muddy and even dirtier appearance to your floor. The sponge mop is also ineffective at removing tough stains on the floor that cannot be removed with simple light scrubbing.
- For uneven surfaces, use a mop that features multiple cloth strips or coiled arms of yarn around the center. These strips of cloth and yarn are effective at penetrating uneven grout lines, folding to conform into the bumps and grooves created by the bumpy pattern of the tile. The cloth and yarn used on these mops are also slightly abrasive, creating a scrubbing surface that will work away stains without scratching the tile surface. This will cut down on the time and energy you spend scrubbing with a sponge mop.
- Never use highly abrasive cleaning products like steel wool or powder cleaners on your ceramic tile, regardless of the type of mop you use. These cleaners will scratch the tile surface and, in worst case scenarios, even gouge the grout. You can find grout and tile cleaner at many convenience retailers and tile supply shops; if in doubt, contact your tile manufacturer for a recommendation of a type of cleaner to use. If nothing else, a solution of warm water and dish soap will suffice for a basic surface cleaning.
