Maintaining the beauty and durability of ceramic tiles in any home requires effective cleaning and care. Ceramic tiles come in a variety of types - glazed, unglazed, porcelain, and terracotta—each with unique properties and cleaning requirements. Lithofin offers specialised tile cleaners designed to keep ceramic surfaces in pristine condition. In this guide, we’ll cover the most effective ways to clean, protect, and maintain ceramic tiles using Lithofin products.
Why Choose Lithofin for Cleaning Ceramic Tiles?
Lithofin products are highly recommended by leading tile producers and natural stone suppliers worldwide. With a history backed by continuous laboratory testing and quality assurance, Lithofin provides top-of-the-line cleaning, sealing, and maintenance solutions that are safe and effective for ceramic tiles. Lithofin is available only through approved dealers, tile outlets, and builders merchants, ensuring product quality and consistency for every application.
Step 1: Post-Installation Cleaning with Lithofin KF Cement Residue Remover
After laying ceramic tiles, grout and cement residues are often left behind. These residues can attract dirt and make maintenance more difficult if not cleaned properly.
Recommended Product: Lithofin KF Cement Residue Remover
- Purpose: Removes cement, mortar residues, and stubborn deposits from ceramic tiles.
- Usage: Apply after grouting, but only once the grout lines have cured for several days. Be sure to protect adjacent surfaces sensitive to water, such as wallpaper or wood.
- Instructions: Dilute according to the product instructions. Spread over the tile surface and allow it to act before wiping it off with a damp cloth.
- Coverage: Approximately 15-30 m² per litre, depending on tile porosity.
Step 2: Protecting Unglazed Ceramic Tiles with Lithofin Stain Protection
Glazed ceramic tiles generally require minimal upkeep due to their non-porous surfaces. However, unglazed tiles are more absorbent and can easily stain. Applying a stain protector helps shield unglazed tiles from dirt and spills, prolonging their appearance and reducing cleaning time.
Recommended Product: Lithofin STAINSTOP W
- Purpose: Provides a water- and oil-repellent layer that protects against stains without altering tile appearance.
- Usage: Ensure tiles are completely dry before application. Test in an inconspicuous area to confirm compatibility.
- Coverage: Up to 12 m² per litre.
For tiles needing a colour boost or a satin finish, Lithofin MULTI-SEAL offers additional protection and enhances the appearance of rough surfaces, making it ideal for heavily used areas like entryways and kitchens.
Step 3: Regular Maintenance with Lithofin EASY-CARE
Routine cleaning is essential for keeping ceramic tiles looking new. Lithofin EASY-CARE is a versatile, high-yield cleaner that effectively cleans and maintains both glazed and unglazed ceramic tiles.
Recommended Product: Lithofin EASY-CARE
- Purpose: Cleans and maintains ceramic tiles in a single step, strengthening colours and making surfaces more resistant to dirt buildup.
- Usage: Add one squirt (approx. 20 ml) per bucket of water. Mop the floor as usual and let the solution air dry; no rinsing is necessary.
- Tip for stubborn dirt: For tougher stains, let the cleaner sit for a few minutes before wiping.
For more intense cleaning on unglazed surfaces or when dealing with thick layers of dirt, Lithofin WEXA is recommended. This product can help to revitalize worn surfaces and remove ingrained dirt.
Specialty Care for Kitchen and Bathroom Tiles
Ceramic tiles in kitchens and bathrooms face unique challenges, such as grease, soap scum, and mildew. Lithofin offers specific solutions for these areas to address the tougher stains and hygiene concerns.
Kitchen Tile Care
In kitchens, grout lines may darken due to grease and food residues. Keeping grout clean not only improves appearance but also prevents hygiene issues.
Recommended Products:
- Lithofin KF Grout Cleaner: Effectively removes grease and dirt from grout lines.
- Lithofin KF Grout Protector: After cleaning, apply this product to protect grout from future stains, making ongoing cleaning easier.
Bathroom Tile Care
Bathroom tiles often accumulate limescale, rust, and soap scum, particularly around showers and basins. For tiles and fittings, Lithofin offers a targeted solution.
Recommended Product: Lithofin KF Ceramic-Clean
- Purpose: Removes limescale, rust, grease, and soap deposits from ceramic tiles, chrome, and stainless steel.
- Usage: Use on tiles, taps, and shower fittings. Apply according to instructions for best results.
- Coverage: Approximately 100 m² per litre.
For mildew and black spots in areas with constant moisture, such as shower corners, Lithofin KF Mildew-Away provides immediate and effective removal while also acting preventatively.
Final Tips for Long-Lasting Ceramic Tile Maintenance
- Follow Product Instructions: Each Lithofin product is specially formulated for specific tile types and should be used according to the label for optimal results.
- Test Before Use: Always test new products in an inconspicuous area to ensure compatibility with your tile surface.
- Regular Care: Incorporate regular maintenance using Lithofin EASY-CARE to prevent the buildup of dirt and maintain a glossy finish.
- Specialized Products for Specific Needs: Use Lithofin KF Grout Cleaner, Mildew-Away, or Ceramic-Clean for tougher stains or specific areas needing extra attention.
Using Lithofin products provides an effective, professional-grade solution for cleaning, protecting, and maintaining ceramic tiles. Whether for post-installation cleaning, stain protection, or daily maintenance, Lithofin has a range of products designed for different tile types and common problem areas. By following these steps, homeowners and professionals alike can enjoy durable, beautiful ceramic tiles for years to come.
Explore the range of Lithofin products available at Tile Fix Direct to find the perfect solution for your ceramic tile cleaning and maintenance needs.
