Anyone who’s visited a royal palace will know that the floors always look immaculate – but a former cleaner said that there are no specialist products between this shine.
Palace floors have to withstand thousands of footsteps from members of the Royal Family and their guests, and many of these castles also have areas open to the general public.
Surprisingly, it’s not any specialist or expensive cleaning products that keep these floors gleaming, but a cheap and easily found product that you can purchase for just £1 at most supermarkets.
Speaking exclusively to Hyperion Tiles, specialists in high-end flooring and maintenance, a former royal cleaner has revealed that the secret is none other than black tea.
A spokesperson for the brand said: “This method is a fantastic example of how natural ingredients can be just as effective as modern cleaners, without the risk of damaging high-quality flooring.
“We always recommend gentle, pH-balanced cleaning solutions for hardwood and tiled floors, and black tea fits perfectly into that category. It’s an easy, affordable trick that anyone can try at home.”
Black tea helps to enhance shine without leaving streaks, break down dirt and grease gently, and to naturally disinfect surfaces without the use of harsh chemicals.
The experts at Hyperion add that the tannins found in black tea help bring out the natural richness of wooden floors, adding a subtle shine without damaging the surface.
This gentle cleaning method is particularly effective for period properties, where historic floors need extra care, and its’ budget-friendly nature means it can be used in other homes, too.
How to use this royal cleaning trick
Want to try this royal-approved cleaning method? Here’s how:
- Brew two or three in a litre of hot water and let it steep until the water cools.
- Dip a soft mop or microfiber cloth into the tea and wring out excess liquid.
- Gently wipe down wooden or tiled floors, avoiding excess moisture.
- Then leave to air dry for a natural, polished shine.
While this simple cleaning trick is suitable for sealed wooden floors and high-quality tiles, the cleaning pros have advised against using it on unsealed wood, where excessive moisture can cause damage.
