Cork tiles are not only eco-friendly and sustainable but also add a touch of warmth and natural beauty to any space. Cork’s unique texture and resilience make it a popular choice for many homeowners – however, like any floor or wall covering, cork requires regular cleaning and maintenance to keep it looking its best and prolong its lifespan. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to effectively clean and maintain your cork tiles.
Understanding Cork Flooring
Before diving into the cleaning process, it's essential to understand the unique characteristics of cork flooring:
Natural Material: Cork is harvested from the bark of cork oak trees, making it a renewable and environmentally friendly flooring and tile option. As a natural material, cork requires more gentle cleaning products than other synthetic flooring materials. Only use a hardwood cleaner that is mild pH-balanced.
Resilient and Soft: Cork is naturally springy and soft underfoot, providing comfort, insulation and grip. Using soft brushes, mops and cleaning cloths will keep your cork floor in peak condition.
Hypoallergenic: Cork is an anti-static material and has a natural resistance to mould, mildew and pests. A such, keeping cork clean is easy and requires minimal effort.
Cleaning Supplies You'll Need
Gather the following supplies before you start cleaning your cork tiles:
Cork Floors:
Broom or vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment
Microfibre mop or a soft mop
Cleaning gloves
Mild pH-balanced hardwood floor cleaner
Warm water
Bucket
Soft cloths or towels
Cork Walls:
Duster or soft brush
Safety goggles
Cleaning gloves
Mild pH-balanced hardwood floor cleaner
Warm water
Bucket
Soft cloths or towels
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
Follow these steps to clean your cork flooring effectively:
Cork Floors:
Remove Debris: Using a broom with soft bristles or a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment, start by sweeping or vacuuming the floor to remove loose dirt, dust, and debris.
Prepare Cleaning Solution: Using your cleaning gloves and a bucket, mix a small amount of mild pH-balanced hardwood floor cleaner with warm water. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the proper dilution ratio.
Mop the Floor: Dip the microfibre or soft mop into the cleaning solution and wring out excess water. Mop the cork floor in sections, working in the direction of the tiles. Avoid using excessive water.
Spot Clean Stains: For stubborn stains or spills, dampen a soft cloth or towel with the cleaning solution and gently blot the affected area. Avoid rubbing vigorously.
Rinse with Water: After mopping, rinse the mop with clean water, wring out excess water then go over the floor again to remove any remaining cleaner residue. Avoid using excessive water and allow floors to air-dry before walking on them.
Cork Walls:
Remove Debris: Start by dusting or gently brushing the cork wall to remove loose dirt, dust, and debris. If tiles are shoulder-height or above, wear safety goggles while cleaning.
Prepare Cleaning Solution: Using your cleaning gloves and a bucket, mix a small amount of mild pH-balanced hardwood floor cleaner with warm water. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the proper dilution ratio.
Wipe the wall: Dip a soft cloth or towel into the cleaning solution and wring out excess water. Wipe the cork wall in sections, working in the direction of the tiles. Avoid using excessive water.
Spot Clean Stains: For stubborn stains or spills, dampen a soft cloth or towel with the cleaning solution and gently blot the affected area. Avoid rubbing vigorously.
Rinse with Water: After wiping, rinse the soft cloth or towel with clean water then wring out excess water and go over the wall again to remove any remaining cleaner residue. Avoid using excessive water and allow the wall to air-dry.
Additional Maintenance Tips
To keep your cork tiles in top condition, consider the following maintenance tips:
Regular Maintenance: Dust, sweep or vacuum your cork tiles regularly to prevent dirt and debris from accumulating.
Protective Mats: Place mats at entryways for people to wipe their shoes before walking on the floor.
Avoid Harsh Cleaners: Avoid using harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or steam mops, as they can damage the cork finish.
Avoid Excessive Moisture: Wipe up spills promptly and avoid wet mopping.
By following these simple steps and maintenance tips, you can keep your cork flooring looking beautiful and extend its lifespan. With regular care and attention, your cork floor will continue to provide comfort, style, and sustainability to your home for years to come.