Your travertine floor tile is a striking addition to your modern kitchen. The material may be timeless and durable, but that doesn't mean you can neglect it. Caring for your travertine tile should be done on a fairly regular schedule and includes a few different levels and steps. We'll walk you through the process.
How often should you clean travertine tile?
The problem with neglecting this type of tiling is that dirt and other debris — when left on the floor — get stepped on and pushed around. This causes tiny scratches on the sealed surface of the travertine material, which eventually leads to the material dulling or losing its luster.
It's recommended you sweep and mop as needed when the surface has visible debris present. Otherwise, you should also disinfect the floors on a monthly basis, and scrub the grout lines once every few months.
How to clean your travertine tile
Step 1: Vacuum or sweep the floor to rid it of any loose debris or small dirt particles.
Step 2: Use a wet mop to dampen the surface of the tiles. Make sure the mop isn't dripping wet but nearly completely wrung out, as the tiles should not be soaked too heavily or mold could grow under the grout.
Step 3: Grab a gallon-sized bucket of water and add a tablespoon of mild dish soap to it.
Step 4: Soak your mop in the mixture and wring it out well before moping the entire surface.
Step 5: Dump out the bucket and refill it with the same mixture before mopping a second time.
Step 6: Towel-dry the surface of the travertine tile floor before walking on it.
How to clean travertine tile grout lines
Those grout lines often become black with dirt. They can be hard to clean, though, since the dirt sticks to the grout material so heavily. Here's how to get that grout looking fresh without damaging your travertine tiles.
Step 1: Grab a large bowl and mix one part water and one part baking soda.
Step 2: Mix up the ingredients until they form a paste that's gritty.
Step 3: Using a small brush — like a toothbrush — scrub the grout lines with the paste. Do this carefully so the abrasive paste and brush don't damage the tiling.
Is there a specific travertine tile cleaner?
Travertine is a natural stone, so any stone tile cleaner recommended for granite, slate, or ceramic tiles will work well at cleaning tough grime or grout lines on your travertine tile. Be sure to read the label of any product before using it, and it's a good idea to test the cleaner on an unassuming spot of your floor to ensure there are no adverse effects.
Your travertine tile flooring creates a modern, clean look in your home, so you don't want it to be an eyesore. Debris, dirt, and grimy grout can sure put a damper on a clean-feeling kitchen or bathroom, so use this guide to keep your travertine floor tile sparkling like new.
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