Give ceramic tile and grout a gentle routine cleaning.

Regular light cleaning keeps ceramic tile easier to maintain and prevents loose grit from scratching the surface. Grout is more porous than glazed tile, so it needs a gentle brush and controlled moisture. Confirm that the surface is ceramic or porcelain—not natural stone—and read the cleaner label before beginning.

What you’ll need

• Broom or vacuum made for hard floors
• Two buckets or bowls
• Neutral-pH tile cleaner
• Microfiber mop or soft cloth
• Soft nylon grout brush
• Dry towel

Take it step by step

1. Sweep or vacuum loose soil carefully. Pay attention to edges where sand and grit collect.
2. Dilute a neutral-pH cleaner exactly as its label directs. Test it in a small hidden area and let that spot dry.
3. Apply a small amount with a microfiber mop or cloth. Work in manageable sections so the cleaner does not dry on the surface.
4. Use a soft nylon brush on sound grout lines with light pressure. Do not use steel wool, a wire brush, or an abrasive pad.
5. Rinse the section with clean water to remove cleaner residue, then dry it with a towel. Change rinse water when it becomes cloudy.

When to ask for help

Stop and get qualified help if grout is loose, cracked, powdery, missing, or repeatedly dark from moisture. Do not scrub suspected mold or use strong acids or bleach without confirming the tile, grout, sealer, ventilation, and product directions.