Ready to make your porcelain tiles look as good as they did when the tile installation was brand new? Thanks to their natural antimicrobial properties, cleaning porcelain tiles is relatively simple and well worth the effort.
If done correctly, your floor and shower tiles will sparkle like never before. Not sure where to begin?
This guide covers everything you need to know about cleaning porcelain tiles. From tackling everyday grime to removing stubborn soap scum in hard-to-reach spots, you’ll discover expert tips to make your porcelain shine like new.
Benefits of Porcelain Tile
Installing porcelain tile in your home has many benefits. This type of tile is durable, long-lasting, and waterproof. This makes it an obvious choice to use in wetter areas of the home like kitchens and bathrooms. Other benefits of porcelain tile installation include the following:
Bacteria Resistance
Porcelain tile surfaces are low-maintenance, non-porous materials naturally inhospitable to bacteria and hazardous molds.
Their impermeable quality blocks the potential passage of harmful microbes to the tile’s substrate area. This makes them suitable for public places, such as hospitals, where intensive cleaning is necessary. However, they’re great for homes and businesses, too.
This, combined with the natural resistance of glazing, makes them tough enough to withstand daily cleaning with harsh chemicals and sanitizing solvents.
While you don’t have to use harsh chemicals (we’ll explain below), porcelain tiles are tough enough to withstand frequent cleaning with sanitizing solvents in professional or medical settings where that is required.
Hypoallergenic
Porcelain tile is an ideal flooring option for those who suffer from allergies due to its hypoallergenic properties.
The material is free from allergens that could trigger respiratory symptoms in individuals with allergies or asthma. Additionally, its surface prevents allergens from sticking or accumulating, reducing the risk of potential allergen exposure in the home
Water Resistance
Porcelain tile is known for its remarkable water resistance, which makes it an ideal choice for areas prone to spills or moisture. Unlike other tiles, porcelain can withstand excess moisture without staining or deteriorating quality.
Furthermore, porcelain has the highest waterproofing rating of any natural material. If you notice product descriptions, you’ll see it’s listed as “impervious.” This means the water absorption rate is less than 0.5%, so the liquid won’t seep into the surface and damage your tiles. Basically, this is why it’s so great for bathrooms and kitchens.
Easy Cleaning
The biggest benefit of installing porcelain tiles is that it’s remarkably easy to clean, so you won’t have to reach for harsh chemicals. Generally, water alone works great for routine cleaning.
Plus, porcelain tile surfaces are well-protected against different types of wear and tear such as stains, scratches, scrapes, dents, or cuts. As a material, porcelain tile is hefty and durable yet requires minimal effort to keep it looking good. It doesn’t get much better than that!
How Often to Clean Porcelain Tile
For best results, give your porcelain tile a quick once-over at least once a week. This will prevent the buildup of dirt and grime that can erode the finish.
If you do cleaning weekly cleanings. start by sweeping or vacuuming away dust, dirt, and crumbs to clean the surface. Then wipe down the tile with clean water. Water is often enough to remove lighter soiling without using other cleaners.
However, mopping is acceptable too, if necessary. Just make sure that the floor has been swept first. Then use a flat mop rather than a sponge mop to avoid pushing excess water into the grout lines. Finally, let the floor fully dry so that no lingering liquid remains on the surface.
What’s the Best Way to Clean Porcelain Tile?
The type of porcelain tile can dictate the best way to clean it.
For example, unglazed or unpolished porcelain tiles respond better to mild soaps and warm water mixtures, while glazed or polished tile often does well with a commercially available porcelain cleaner. Textured porcelain tiling might require extra scrubbing to remove dirt and debris from the grouting between the tiles.
Regardless of the tile type, cleaning your porcelain tile regularly will minimize wear and tear while keeping your interior spaces fresh and beautiful.
How to Clean Different Types of Porcelain Tile
Cleaning porcelain tile is straightforward, but the method can vary based on the type of tile. Follow our guide to learn how to clean your porcelain tiles effectively, tailored to the specific type you have.
Unpolished or Unglazed Tile
Unglazed porcelain tiles are more prone to staining than glazed ones, so you should expect to clean them more often to avoid discolorations.
Vacuuming and sweeping will help remove loose dirt and debris between tiles and grout lines. Focus on one section at a time (about two or four feet square) while you’re doing this step.
Next, cover the tile surface with a vinegar-and-water mixture or a commercial cleanser. Why choose these solutions? The vinegar-and-water solution effectively breaks down grease and oil while providing disinfection. However, commercial cleansers should be used sparingly to avoid potential discoloration of grout lines, particularly on light-colored tiles such as white or cream.
After allowing the solution to soak, use a soft-bristle brush to tackle any stubborn spots without damaging the tile. Rinse with hot water to remove all traces of dirt left from the cleaning process.
Finally, ensure you dry the tiles thoroughly. Use towels or microfiber cloths to absorb any remaining moisture. Although the tiles are water-resistant, the surrounding areas may not be, so it’s best to dry everything to prevent potential issues.
Polished or Glazed Tile
To thoroughly clean polished or glazed porcelain tile, use the right combination of tools and products. Start by sweeping and vacuuming to remove dirt and debris, followed by dust-mopping the tile with a dry mop.
Next, use a hot water-dampened mop to loosen heavy soil. For stubborn stains, apply a heavy-duty cleanser, or for a natural option, use the vinegar-and-water mixture mentioned earlier.
Mop again with hot water before the cleaner dries, then dry the tile surface with a clean towel or microfiber cloth, paying attention to remove any water spots.
After removing all moisture, buff the surface with cheesecloth for an extra shine. For best results, repeat these steps regularly and follow the manufacturer’s instructions where applicable.
Textured Tile
To ensure a brilliant and sparkling clean textured porcelain tile, follow these steps below.
As with other types of porcelain tile, you’ll want to begin by sweeping the area twice with a soft-bristle broom. Sweep in both straight and diagonal directions. Then use a vacuum cleaner to remove any dirt or particles from the surface.
Next, make your water and vinegar solution as mentioned above. Spray it or spread it across your textured tile. Allow the tile to soak for five to ten minutes before scrubbing using a soft-bristled brush or an old toothbrush.
After that, rinse the cleaning solution with hot water before going over the floor with a damp mop. Finally, dry the porcelain tile with a clean towel or a microfiber cloth as soon as possible to prevent water spots from taking hold.
Make this a routine, and you’ll keep your porcelain tile looking shiny and new!
How to Disinfect Porcelain Tile
Cleaning your tiles is one thing. But what if you need to disinfect them? Fortunately, you don’t need harsh chemicals or solutions to disinfect porcelain tiles. Warm water and an appropriate non-abrasive cleaner are all you need most of the time.
For situations requiring a greater level of cleanliness, such as when dealing with foodborne illness, you can use stronger disinfectants without fear of staining or damaging the surface of the tiles.
If you are you unsure which one to use, consult the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) list of registered disinfectants.
Removing Tough Stains from Porcelain Tile
Dealing with tough stains on porcelain tiles requires a targeted approach to effectively restore their pristine appearance.
For most stains, a mixture of warm water and a mild detergent can be effective. However, for more stubborn stains, such as those caused by oils or rust, a solution of equal parts vinegar and water can help break down the stain. Apply the solution, let it sit for a few minutes, and then scrub gently with a soft brush.
For persistent stains, a commercial tile cleaner specifically designed for porcelain may be necessary. Always test any cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area first to be sure it doesn’t damage the tile. After removing the stain, rinse the area thoroughly and dry it to prevent any residue from attracting more dirt.
What Not to Do When Cleaning Porcelain Tile
As noted, porcelain tiles are highly durable, but to keep both the tile and grout in excellent condition, avoid certain cleaners and techniques. This is important for both home and professional tiling projects.
Specifically, steer clear of ammonia or bleach-based solutions, as they can cause grout staining. Avoid oil-based detergents and wax products, which can compromise the tile’s integrity. For unglazed tiles, avoid cleaners with dyes or colouring agents.
Also, do not use steel wool or abrasive materials, as they can leave rust stains and scratches. Lastly, refrain from using hard-bristled scrub brushes, as they can damage the tile surface.
Need Help Installing Porcelain Tiles?
While learning how to clean porcelain tile keeps your tiles stay shiny for a long time, these tips won’t help much if you can’t finish your tile installation project. Luckily, we’ve got just the tools you need!
At Rubi, we have everything you need, from tile spacers and cutters to more. Click here to view our full product catalog, or browse our site to view our selection of tiling tools.
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