Cleaning ceramic pavements with smear may seem practical, but experts warn that this habit may be harming both the aspect and the durability of the surfaces. Kitchens, bathrooms and balconies are zones where excess water becomes a recurring problem.
According to Joyce French, a specialist in cleaning the British Homehow portal, the problem begins at the bucket: “Water gets dirty quickly and, with each passage, is just moving contaminants from side to side.” In addition, the smears, especially the flat head, do not reach the small grooves and reliefs of the pieces, leaving residues accumulated in the grout (together).
Over time, this practice favors the appearance of bacteria and even mold, particularly in areas where moisture is constant, such as kitchens and bathrooms.
Invisible Risks for the Floor
More than a matter of hygiene, excessive use of water can affect the structure of the coating itself. Laura Harnett, founder of Ecological Brand Seepexplains that “leaving water on the surface for a long time can damage the grout and even drop the pieces, originating cracks or detachments.”
Thus, what seemed just a routine cleaning can actually compromise the integrity of the coating and lead to expensive repairs.
In addition, stagnant water at the joints accelerates grout wear, weakening it and reducing infiltration protection.
Because you should avoid smear
The smear spreads more than cleans: residues, fats and dust end up dragged but not eliminated. The result is a floor that appears to be clean on the surface, while dirt focuses on the joints.
This process, repeated over time, compromises the hygiene of the house and can leave persistent stains and loss of shine in the pieces.
In the long run, the risk is not just aesthetic: infiltrations and cracks become more likely.
Effective alternatives
Experts cited by the same source advocate simple and effective solutions. The use of bristle brush (suitable for rubbing ceramic and joint floors without damaging them) allows you to reach the joints and clean in depth. In parallel, water control reduces residual moisture.
A mixture of vinegar water can complement cleaning, removing fats without resorting to aggressive chemicals and helping in disinfection.
When choosing this technique, a longer lasting cleaning is obtained and the coating against early wear.
Long -term maintenance
In addition to being more effective, brush cleaning contributes to prolonging the life of ceramic floors. Less accumulated moisture means lower risk of detachments and greater resistance to the onset of fungi.
Maintaining a cleaning routine adapted to the material is essential to preserving the investment made in ceramic tiles, which can last decades if well cared for.
The importance of changing habits
For many, the smear is still synonymous with quick cleaning. But the experts cited by recalling that the most used method is not always the safest. Adjusting habits avoids major problems and ensures a healthier home.
Switching the smear for a brush may seem like a detail, but it represents a significant difference for the health and conservation of ceramic floors.
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