How to Clean Porcelain Tiles
Cleaning porcelain tiles is something many of us put off. But let's face it, dirty tiles can make a whole room look unkempt. These tiles are pretty tough and don’t need much looking after, which is great news for everyone! They’re known for being resistant to scratches, stains, and water. So, if you’ve got porcelain tiles, you’re already a step ahead. Still, you want them to look their best, right? That’s where we come in with our easy tips to keep your tiles looking shiny and new. Spend more time enjoying the look of your clean tiles and less time worrying about how to get them that way.
A Guide to Cleaning Porcelain Tiles - Do’s and Don’ts
What to Do:
➔ Regularly sweep and vacuum to get rid of dirt.
➔ Mop them and make sure they’re dry after.
➔ For a deeper clean, mild detergents or floor cleaners are your friends.
➔ You can use a scrubber if you need to.
➔ Check that your cleaning products are safe for your tiles.
➔ Protect your grout lines with a sealant.
What Not to Do:
➔ Avoid cleaners with acid or bleach.
➔ Stay away from ammonia-based cleaners for regular use.
➔ Wax-based cleaners? Not a good idea.
➔ Oil-based detergents can leave a residue, so it’s a no-go.
➔ Harsh scrubbers can damage your tiles, so be careful.
Supplies You’ll Need to Clean Porcelain Tiles:
➔ Broom or vacuum
➔ Mop and bucket
➔ Baking soda
➔ Acrylic stone sealer
➔ Brushes or scrubs
➔ Vinegar or commercial cleaning solutions
How to Clean Different Types of Porcelain Tiles
★ Regular Cleaning: Sweep, mop with a damp mop, and let air dry. That’s usually enough.
★ Textured Tiles: Sweep twice, use a water and vinegar solution, scrub, rinse, and dry.
★ Polished/Glazed Tiles: Sweep, use warm water with a bit of vinegar, mop, rinse, and let dry.
★ Unpolished/Unglazed Tiles: Sweep, mop with a mild solution, scrub tough stains if needed, rinse, and dry. Seal with an acrylic sealer annually.
How Often to Clean Porcelain Tiles?
● Depends on how much foot traffic there is. Could be once a week or daily.
Tips to Keep Your Porcelain Tiles Shining:
● Mop with warm water regularly.
● Use a vinegar solution monthly to bring back the shine.
● Always rinse with clean water after using vinegar.
● Regular maintenance keeps them in top shape.
● Avoid colored products on unglazed tiles to prevent stains.
● Even though porcelain tiles resist chemicals, it’s best to avoid harsh cleaners.
● Ensure good ventilation when using chemicals.
● Wear gloves and eyewear for safety.
Deep Dive into Maintaining Porcelain Tiles
Addressing Stains Immediately: One key to keeping your porcelain tiles in pristine condition is addressing spills and stains as soon as they happen. The quicker you clean up any spill, the less chance it has to leave a mark. This is especially true for polished or glazed tiles, which, despite their protective layer, can still be susceptible to certain types of stains if left unattended for too long.
Routine Cleaning Schedule: Establishing a routine cleaning schedule can significantly extend the life and beauty of your porcelain tiles. For areas with high foot traffic, such as kitchens and entryways, a daily sweep or vacuum followed by a quick mop can prevent dirt from accumulating. Less trafficked areas might only need this treatment once a week. The key is consistency to avoid build-up that can lead to grime, making the tiles look dull.
Choosing the Right Cleaning Tools: While it's important to avoid harsh scrubbers that can scratch the surface of your tiles, not all scrub brushes are off-limits. Soft-bristled brushes can be effective for cleaning grout and textured tiles without causing damage. Microfiber mops are excellent for porcelain tiles because they do not leave lint behind and can help polish the surface as you clean.
DIY Cleaning Solutions: For those who prefer eco-friendly or homemade cleaning solutions, a mix of water and vinegar can work wonders on porcelain tiles. However, ensure the solution is diluted properly to avoid damaging the tiles. A good rule of thumb is to use half a cup of vinegar per gallon of water. For an extra boost, especially on grout, a paste made from baking soda and water can be applied directly to stains. Let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing gently and rinsing.
Protecting Your Tiles: Besides cleaning, protecting your tiles from potential damage is crucial. One way to do this is by placing doormats at all entrances to catch dirt and debris before it can be tracked across your porcelain floors. Additionally, consider using furniture pads under the legs of chairs, tables, and sofas to prevent scratches.
Seasonal Tips for Tile Maintenance: As seasons change, so do the care requirements for your porcelain tiles. During wet seasons, ensure you dry mop any water or snow tracked in immediately to prevent slips and avoid water stains. In contrast, summer might bring more dust and require more frequent sweeping.
Professional Cleaning: While regular home care is usually enough to keep your tiles looking great, occasionally, a professional deep clean can help restore the tiles' original luster, especially for unglazed or textured tiles. Professionals have the tools and knowledge to safely deep clean your tiles without damaging them.
Reviving Old Tiles: If your tiles have lost their shine over time, a professional grade tile cleaner can be used to revive them. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and test on a small, inconspicuous area first. After cleaning, applying a sealant can help protect unglazed tiles from future stains and make cleaning easier.
Troubleshooting Common Tile Problems: Sometimes, despite our best efforts, problems can arise. For example, if your tiles appear cloudy after cleaning, it could be due to residue from the cleaning solution. Rinse the tiles with clean water and dry with a lint-free cloth to fix this. If your grout is looking dingy, consider using a grout cleaner or a grout pen to brighten it up without having to replace it.
On a Final Note
Porcelain tiles are a smart choice for any home because of their durability and low maintenance. Following our guide, you can easily keep your porcelain tiles looking like new. Remember, regular cleaning and the occasional deep clean can go a long way in maintaining the beauty of your tiles. Avoid harsh chemicals and scrubbers to prevent damage.
By taking good care of your porcelain tiles, you ensure your home not only looks clean but feels welcoming too. If you have questions or need further advice, don’t hesitate to reach out. At Cleveland Porcelain Gallery, we’re always here to help you make the most of your porcelain tiles. Keep your home clean, and it will surely be a happy one!
By following these straightforward tips, you'll find that keeping your porcelain tiles in top condition is easier than you thought. So, grab your cleaning supplies, and let's make those tiles shine!