How to Add Sparkle and Shine to your House?

Little housekeeping tips, done the right way will go a long way in keeping your house dust and stain free

Tiled surfaces require careful cleaning. While harsh chemicals and cleaning material can ruin the look, softer options will help the interior stay longer.
Clean and sweep your tiles regularly.
To remove stubborn spots, scrub with a paste of bicarbonate of soda and water Use just a few drops or soap-less detergent - do not use abrasive cleaners.
Vacuuming is a great way to clean tiles.
Vinegar mixed with warm water is a proven and natural cleaning agent.
If you ever need to use a stronger cleaner make sure it is neutral i.e. non acidic and non-alkaline.
For soiled areas, you can use an all-purpose household cleaner or a cleaner made specifically for ceramic tiles.
Remove soot from kitchen tiles with a mixture of lemon juice and salt, then wash.
Before cleaning bathroom tiles, run the shower on hot for five minutes to steam the dirt loose. For stubborn stains, apply a paste of scouring powder and water and let sit for five minutes. Scrub with a nylon scrub pad, rinse and wipe dry.
To keep the grout joints on tile countertops clean longer, wash with a solution of 1-2 tablespoons chlorine bleach in one quart of water. Dry thoroughly, then apply an acrylic sealer or three coats of lemon oil. Let dry for one hour between coats.
Remove mildew and make tiles sparkle by sponging with a solution of ammonia and water. Do not use soap on tile because it leaves a film, which dulls the surface.
Do not use steel wool pads or similar abrasive cleaning pads. Loose particles of steel can cause rust stains in grout.
Do not use acid based cleaners. They can affect the colour of the grout and can cause tiles to dull. You should not use pure vinegar, which is an acid.
Do not drop heavy objects on tiles - they are not indestructible.
Do not wear spiked shoes if you have high gloss floors.
Use good mats at doorways to keep out sand, which may scratch tiles. Use buffers under any furniture that may damage the surface of the tile.
Before fixing tiles, ensure that the wall is structurally sound, smooth and flat. It should be free of waxy/oil films, curing compounds, wall covering, paints etc.
To fit up against a curved surface like the edge of a washbasin, make a cardboard template of the curve, transfer it to the tile surface and cut along the curve.
While fixing accessory tiles leave space in the run of tiles where the accessory tile will fit and scrape out the adhesive left exposed. With surrounding tiles set in place, spread adhesive on the back of accessory and push it firmly into the space.