Final answer:
For applying a soap solution to tiles, a soft brush is recommended to prevent scratching the tiles and to allow for a thorough clean, especially when reaching into grouts and crevices. It's also noted that soap's effectiveness reduces with hard water, necessitating a water softener or specialized cleaning product.
Step-by-step explanation:
When cleaning tiles, a soap solution is commonly used because it is an effective and biodegradable cleaning agent. However, for the task of applying the soap solution to tiles, a soft brush is typically recommended. A soft brush is gentle enough to not scratch the surface of the tile while effectively distributing the soap solution evenly across the surface. This is an important consideration, especially since tiles can have a glazed finish that might be damaged by a harder brush. Additionally, soft bristles can more easily access tile grout and other crevices for a thorough clean.
Although soap is a great option for cleaning, it is important to note that its effectiveness can be diminished when used with hard water. Hard water contains minerals that can react with soap, reducing its ability to lather and effectively clean surfaces. In these cases, it might be beneficial to use a water softener or choose a cleaning product specifically designed to work with hard water.