When your floors are already in tiptop condition, cleaning a slate floor is easier. Keep in mind that slate is very porous. It can be stained by some cleaning fluids even when a sealer is applied. Cracks and pits on floor are sometimes caused by intense alkaline solutions. A slate floor will last for so many years if you take good care of it.
A type of very fine grained metamorphic rock which naturally forms in layers, mosaic slate tiles make an attractive material for floors. It is usually streaked with bands of vivid and interesting colors. It is normally installed over grout while being run between the individual slate floor tiles. A commercial sealer must be applied as soon as a slate floor is installed. To keep the floor in good shape, the sealer should be periodically stripped and renewed.
When cleaning a slate floor, you can get rid of dirt and stains without damaging or staining the tiles. You can start by imposing simple house rules such as taking off the shoes to minimize tracking. Put small throw rugs around the kitchen stove and sink to catch the spills before hitting the floor. You can also do this with a slate floor in the bathroom. It would be much easier to clean a slate floor when you follow these steps.
Removing dirt and dust is the first step. In cleaning a slate, it is necessary to sweep or vacuum it first. It is also highly recommended to run a dust mop over the floor. More intensive mopping will not be required as often if you clean a slate floor with these techniques at least once a week. Make sure to move the furniture when cleaning a slate floor to keep the whole area clean and not just the visible part. Put felt pads on legged furniture to prevent scuffing the floor when being moved.
Use plain hot water when mopping. Submerge a clean mop into the hot water. To get as much water out as possible, squeeze it. Then lightly run it over the floor while rinsing repeatedly. Change the mop water halfway through if the floor is broad. If the floor is in a high traffic area and has some stubborn stains, add some vinegar to the mop water. This will give the floor a nice, glossy luster. Mild detergents can also be used. Just remember to clean the slate floor with vinegar mopping after using a detergent so that all residues will be removed.