How to Clean and Care for Porcelain Floor Tiles
Porcelain floor tiles are a durable and attractive flooring option, but they require proper care and maintenance to keep them looking their best. Here’s a comprehensive guide to cleaning and caring for porcelain floor tiles:
Unglazed Porcelain Floor Tiles
Unglazed porcelain tiles are more porous than glazed tiles, so they are more susceptible to staining and damage.
Regular Cleaning:
- Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove loose dirt and grit.
- Damp mop with warm water or a mild dish soap solution. Avoid saturating the tiles.
- Dry the tiles thoroughly with a clean towel or sponge.
Annual Sealing Treatment:
- Apply an acrylic stone sealer to the clean, dry floor to protect the surface pores.
- Add 1 cup of sealer to 3 gallons of rinse water after a good cleaning.
Spot Cleaning:
- Remove spills immediately to prevent staining.
- Clean grout lines with equal parts water and baking soda using a small brush.
Glazed Porcelain Floor Tiles
Glazed porcelain tiles have a protective glass layer that makes them impervious to water and most stains.
Regular Cleaning:
- Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove grit that can damage the glaze.
- Mop with a tile-safe product according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Use a vinegar solution (1:1 vinegar to water) to clean stains.
Spot Cleaning:
- Wipe up spills promptly to prevent staining.
- Avoid using harsh cleaners or abrasive materials, as these can damage the glaze.
Deep Cleaning Porcelain Floor Tiles
For a deeper clean, follow these steps:
- Mix a cleaning solution of 1/4 cup white vinegar and 1 gallon of warm water.
- Mop the floor thoroughly with the vinegar solution.
- Rinse with plain water.
- Sprinkle baking soda on the floor.
- Mop again with the vinegar solution.
- Flush the floor thoroughly with plain water to remove any residue.
Tips for Keeping Porcelain Floors Clean Longer
- Sweep, vacuum, or mop regularly to remove dirt and debris.
- Wipe up spills immediately.
- Avoid using abrasive cleaners or colored products on unglazed tiles.
- Ventilate the area when cleaning to prevent inhalation damage from chemical cleaners.
- Never use steel wool or other abrasive utensils on porcelain floors.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to clean porcelain tiles without streaks?
- Use a vinegar-water solution and rinse and dry the floor thoroughly.
Why are my porcelain tiles dull?
- Abrasive dirt particles or harsh cleaners can remove the finish and wear at the surface of the tile.
What can damage porcelain tile?
- Letting stains sit, highly corrosive products, and abrasive materials can damage porcelain tile.