Cleaning Outdoor Textured Tiles (test patch)
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How to Clean Shiny Floor Tiles the Right Way (Without the Streaks!)
Shiny floors can make a space feel fresh, open, and luxurious — but only when they’re cleaned the right way. If you’ve ever mopped and ended up with dull patches or streaks, don’t worry — we’re here to help. Here’s a simple, streak-free method that keeps your shiny tiles looking brand new, using SHYN-approved products and tools. What You’ll Need Sabco Microfibre Mop (available in the SHYN Shop) Traditional Mop Bucket with wringer (any standard one will do) Boiling Water SHYN Degreaser (undiluted) Step-by-Step: Regular Cleaning Routine 1. Fill Your BucketAdd boiling water to your mop bucket — hot water lifts more grime with less effort. 2. Add SHYN DegreaserSpray 6 full pumps of undiluted SHYN Degreaser straight into the water. This helps cut through dirt, oily residues, and footprints while leaving the floor naturally glossy and clean. 3. Dip & WringDip your Sabco microfibre mop into the bucket and wring it out thoroughly. The mop should be damp, not dripping wet. 4. Mop in SectionsMop one small section of the floor at a time, and be sure to go over the same spot three times: First pass: Lifts surface dirt Second pass: Removes residue Third pass: Polishes for a streak-free shine Move in a methodical pattern across the room to ensure no spots are missed. 5. Let It Air DryBecause your mop is well wrung out, the floor should dry quickly and without streaks. No need to rinse or buff! Pro Tip: What If the Floors Are a Bit Sticky or Built-Up? If your floors feel sticky, greasy, or have visible residue, it may be worth doing a test patch using SHYN Degreaser (undiluted) once it arrives. If needed, upgrade your clean with: The Magic Eraser Floor Tool for spot treatment The Shyner for a deeper one-off restoration But in most cases, if your floors are well maintained, the regular method above will be more than enough! Ready to Get Started? You can grab the Sabco Mop and SHYN Degreaser right from the SHYN Shop. And if you already have a traditional bucket at home, you’re good to go.
Learn moreShould You Steam Mop Vinyl Plank Floors?
Steam mops promise a deep, chemical-free clean — and for tile or sealed stone, they’re a dream. But when it comes to vinyl plank flooring, things get a little trickier. If you’ve ever wondered whether steam mopping is safe for vinyl planks, you’re not alone. Let’s break it down. What Are Vinyl Planks Made Of? Vinyl plank flooring, especially Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP), is made from layers of synthetic materials, often including: A wear layer (to resist scratches) A vinyl core And sometimes a rigid composite base Most are designed to be water-resistant, but that doesn’t mean they’re invincible. The Steam Problem Steam mops use heat and moisture — the very things vinyl planks are sensitive to in excess. Here’s what can go wrong: Warping or buckling: Prolonged heat and moisture can cause planks to swell or change shape. Adhesive breakdown: If your floor is glued down, steam can break the bond. Voided warranties: Many manufacturers specifically state that steam mopping voids their warranty. When Is It Safe? In rare cases, fully waterproof vinyl planks (like rigid core or SPC) can handle light steam cleaning, but only under strict conditions: Low steam setting Constant motion (never let steam sit in one area) Dry pad follow-up to remove moisture Manufacturer approval If the planks are click-lock or floating, moisture can still seep into joints and cause damage over time. SHYN Recommendation We don’t recommend steam mopping vinyl planks. Instead, opt for: A microfibre Mop or flat mop Diluted pH-neutral cleaner (like SHYN Degreaser mixed 50/50 with water) This method keeps your floors clean, beautiful, and damage-free — with zero risk. What If a Client Asks for Steam? If you’re a cleaner and a customer insists on steam mopping, here’s what to do: Explain the risks clearly Ask for written permission Offer a safer method that gives just as good a result Your reputation matters — and so does their floor. Final Thoughts Steam cleaning has its place, but vinyl planks deserve a gentler touch. With the right cloth and cleaner, you’ll get an exceptional clean without risking damage. Want help finding the perfect products to care for vinyl floors? We’ve got you covered — SHYN makes it simple.
Learn moreWhy Stone Floors Need Special Care
Natural stone is formed deep in the earth and then cut into tiles. Each type has a different makeup — and most are porous, meaning they can absorb liquids, stain easily, or react to strong chemicals. Here’s a quick overview: Marble & Limestone – Soft and highly porous. Sensitive to acid and can easily etch. Travertine – A softer form of limestone, equally sensitive. Granite – Stronger but still needs sealing. Can stain without protection. Slate – More durable but has layers that can lift if not cared for properly. Many floors are sealed to protect them, but the wrong cleaner can break down that seal over time. What to Avoid Acidic cleaners (like vinegar or citrus) Bleach or ammonia Boiling water (can shock and crack the stone) Antibacterial products (like mould removers) Soaking or flooding the floor with water Strong degreasers directly on stone What You Can Use (Stone-Safe Options) You’ve got two safe paths: 🔹 Option 1: SHYN Positive Chi Disinfectant – Alcohol-free, pH neutral, and completely safe for natural stone– Septic safe– Leaves a fresh, gentle scent– Add it to warm mop water for everyday cleans 🔹 Option 2: Any pH-neutral stone floor cleaner – Look for one designed for marble, limestone, or granite– Make sure it says "safe for natural stone" and contains no acids or antibacterials What About SHYN Degreaser? Yes, you can use it — but only diluted: 👉 Add 6 sprays of SHYN Degreaser into a 12L bucket of warm water.This mild dilution helps break down grime safely, but it should never be poured directly onto stone. Tools to Use SHYN Microfibre Mop or Wall & Floor Tool – Safe for delicate surfaces, easy to use Vacuum or dry mop – Always remove debris first Step-by-Step: SHYN Stone Floor Cleaning Routine Vacuum or dust first – This prevents grit from scratching the surface. Fill your mop bucket with warm water + either:– A splash of SHYN Positive Chi– Or 6 sprays of SHYN Degreaser (for deeper cleans) Mop gently, rinsing out the water as much as possible, to avoid streaks. Rinse mop often, especially if the floor is greasy. 💡 Final Thoughts Natural stone is an investment — and with the right care, it’ll last a lifetime. Using the wrong products can lead to damage that’s expensive (or impossible) to reverse. Whether you're cleaning floors, benchtops, or splashbacks, always use pH-neutral, non-acidic, non-abrasive products — and clean with love, the SHYN way.
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