Want to know the correct method of cleaning and protecting tiled floors in your Perth office? Read on to learn more.
Step 1. Prevent the growth of mould between and on tiles
The best way to ensure cleaning your tiles is a quick, easy and effective process, is to limit the amount of mould and dirt they accumulate in the first place.
For tiled floors in bathrooms, PetraClean recommends the application of chlorinated mould cleaners, which are highly effective at destroying and preventing the growth of mould. For our Perth office clients, we use a specially formulated chemical named End Mould.
Made of sodium hypochlorite, which is a compound found in bleach, sanitisers and swimming pool treatments, as well as detergent additives, which neutralise acids and break down dirt deposits, End Mould destroys both mould and mildew. PetraClean uses End Mould on our Perth client’s office bathroom tiles, grouting, plastic shower screens, and refrigerator door seals.
Step 2. Vacuum/sweep tiled floor
When it comes to general cleaning of tiled floors, it’s always important to begin by vacuuming up any debris.
Mopping without vacuuming can cause debris like sand and other dirt to scratch and damage your tiles, plus, choosing to not deal with dirt at the beginning can mean you spend more time cleaning later on.
At PetraClean, we use backpack vacuums fitted with HEPA filters. A High-Efficiency Particulate Air filter, better known as HEPA, is a type of filter that can trap a large number of very small particles that other vacuum cleaners would otherwise recirculate back into the air. Vacuums that use HEPA filters are considered superior because they minimize dust, skin cells, hair, and other particles that can exacerbate allergies and respiratory conditions.
At the offices of our Perth clients, we always vacuum and never sweep. Not only is this due to vacuums being far more effective at picking up debris, but brooms tend to make dust particles airborne, which simply spreads particles around the room.
Step 3. Degrease tiles and grout
To remove general dirt, grease and grime from tiled floors, PetraClean use an industrial strength degreaser called All Purpose.
Made up of a caustic alkali (a basic, ionic solid that is corrosive), All Purpose is a water-based degreaser that we regularly use in both bathroom and kitchens due to its ability to effectively clean heavy grease and other soiling.
When it comes to getting down and dirty, we recommend the use of a stiff, short bristle broom. At our client’s Perth office bathrooms, we allow for 2-5 minutes contact time with the All Purpose cleaner, depending on the state of the tiles and grout. This is followed by a scrub, firm enough to clean, but light enough so that the bristles are not bent and can agitate the dirt build-up properly.
Once this is done, the tiles are wet vacuumed to remove all liquid and dirt, preparing tiled floors for the final stage of cleaning.
Step 4. Mop and disinfect tiles
The last stage of cleaning office tiles is a final mop with clean, hot water and disinfectant. This kills any remaining germs or bacteria, and leaves tiles sparkling and smelling great.
At PetraClean, our hospital grade disinfectant cleaners come in three great, lasting scents, Jellybean (lavender), Mr D (citrus) and Mrs D (spice), and meet WA Health Department guidelines.
Step 5. Seal tiles (Optional)
If your tiles are made from natural stone or are porous in nature (able to absorb water or other liquids), PetraClean recommends sealing to increase protection and prevent staining.
We use a premium, industrial strength water-based sealant, that provides a long lasting, natural finish that does not affect the look of your tiles. While sealing is not usually part of our standard office cleaning contracts, PetraClean happily provides this as an additional service.
When it comes to cleaning tiled floors, prevention and protection is just as important as the cleaning process. For more information on preventing mould, our tile sealing services, or to have a chat about getting your office cleaned by us, get into contact today.
