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Does Steam Cleaning Really Clean Tile Floors

Does Steam Really Work for Tile Floor Cleaning?

Yes, steam can effectively clean tile floors by loosening dirt, grime, and stains with high-temperature moisture. It is a chemical-free cleaning method that can sanitize and refresh tile surfaces without harsh cleaners.

Steam can work wonders for tile floor cleaning, but its effectiveness can vary depending on a few key factors:

  • Type of Dirt and Grime: Steam cleaning can be highly effective at removing surface dirt, sticky residues, and some stains. However, for deeply embedded dirt or tough stains, it may not be enough by itself. 
  • Tile Material: Ceramic and porcelain tiles are generally safe for steam cleaning, as they can withstand high temperatures. Natural stone tiles like marble, limestone, or slate, however, can be damaged by excessive heat and moisture, so steam cleaning may not be ideal. Regular maintenance and proper cleaning techniques can help preserve the beauty and longevity of your natural stone tiles.

 

However, it’s best to consult a professional tile floor cleaning company, such as Eco Fresh Carpet Cleaning to determine whether your tiles can withstand the high temperatures associated with steam cleaning. 

How Does Steam Cleaning Clean Tile Floors? 

Steam cleaning uses heated water vapor, typically at 200°F or higher, to loosen dirt and kill bacteria. The steam is directed onto the tile and grout, where it penetrates to remove debris, allergens, and stains that have settled into the surface. The high temperature of the steam can also kill bacteria and other pathogens.

What Are the Benefits of Using Steam for Tile Floor Cleaning?

Steam cleaning has some clear benefits when compared to other forms of cleaning:

  • Chemical-Free: Ask Team Clean reports that steam cleaning is an eco-friendly choice, which makes it great for households with kids or pets. You don’t have to worry about the smell of strong chemicals that lasts in your home for days after a deep clean when you opt for steam tile cleaning. 
  • Kills Germs: The high temperature kills bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens, leaving your floors not only looking clean but also sanitized. This leaves your loved ones protected from seasonal viruses and allergies. 
  • Time-Saving: For regular maintenance, steam cleaning with Ecofresh Carpet Cleaning can save you time by lifting dirt quickly and covering large areas easily.  

Is Choosing A Professional Steam Cleaning Company the Best Way to Go?

Steam cleaning can work in one of two ways: You can either invest in steam cleaning equipment and carry it out yourself, or hire a professional tile floor cleaning team to help you with it. 

Professionals, such as ours at Ecofresh Carpet Cleaning, are more experienced at steam cleaning. Here’s a breakdown of the steps and equipment they use to get that professional-level clean on tile floors.

Inspection and Preparation

Before starting, professionals assess the type of tile, grout, and any specific stains or damage to determine the safest approach. They take steps to protect surrounding areas like walls, cabinets, and furniture from excess moisture or steam, often using plastic coverings or towels.

Deep Pre-Cleaning

Professionals remove all loose dirt, dust, and debris, through vacuuming and sweeping, to prevent them from muddying the floor once the steam cleaner starts. They may also pretreat any heavily stained or greasy spots with specialized cleaners to make the steam cleaning more effective.

High-Quality Steam Cleaning Equipment

Cleaning companies use professional-grade steam cleaning devices that can produce steam at a higher temperature (often over 300°F) and pressure than home models, which improves their ability to lift dirt and kill bacteria. They also use slow, steady movements to allow the steam ample time to dissolve dirt and lift stains from the tile and grout.

They may also use attachments specifically for tile and grout, allowing steam to penetrate deep without damaging the surface. 

Extraction of Residual Moisture

Once the steam cleaning process is complete, professionals use a vacuum extractor to immediately remove loosened dirt, moisture, and debris, which ensures there’s no leftover residue and speeds up drying. Then, any remaining moisture is wiped away with microfiber cloths to avoid streaks and ensure tiles are left clean and dry.

Lastly, they inspect the floor to catch any remaining spots or missed grout lines. For grout especially, professional steam cleaners may apply a sealant post-cleaning to prevent future stains and keep the grout looking clean longer.

 

Final Thoughts

Steam cleaning can be an effective way to clean tile floors, especially for routine maintenance and surface-level cleaning. It’s a convenient, chemical-free way to keep your floors looking and feeling fresh, but it may not be enough for deeply stained grout or certain types of tiles.

For the best results, contact Ecofresh Carpet Cleaning Our carpet cleaners will make sure your tiles are thoroughly cleaned, without harming your loved ones with harsh chemicals. 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does steam cleaning your floors cost?

The cost of using steam ranges between $0.50 and $3.50 per square foot, depending on the size of the area and the kind of tiles that need to be cleaned. 

Contact Ecofresh Carpet Cleaning to learn more about steam cleaning rates!

Is steam cleaning effective for grout and harsh stains?

When used as a part of an integrated tile cleaning approach, steam cleaning can effectively remove grout and harsh stains. 

How often should I deep clean my tile floors, and what’s the best way to do it?

Generally, tile floors benefit from a deep clean every 3-6 months, depending on the level of foot traffic, exposure to dirt, and overall wear. For high-traffic areas like kitchens and entryways, aim for every three months, while lower-traffic rooms may only need it twice a year.


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