Ceramic and porcelain tile are durable, easy to maintain, and designed to stand up to everyday use. With regular cleaning and proper care, your tile and grout can remain beautiful for years to come.
Step 1: Remove Loose Dirt and Debris
Begin by removing dust, dirt, sand, and other loose particles from the surface.
- Sweep the floor with a soft-bristle broom or use a vacuum with a hard-floor setting.
- Pay special attention to corners, edges, and areas where dirt tends to collect.
- Avoid using a vacuum attachment with a rotating brush that could potentially scratch the surface.
Removing loose debris first helps prevent dirt from being spread across the tile during wet cleaning.
Step 2: Prepare a Cleaning Solution
For routine cleaning, use warm water with a small amount of a pH-neutral tile cleaner or mild detergent specifically recommended for ceramic and porcelain tile.
- Follow the manufacturer’s dilution instructions.
- Avoid using excessive amounts of cleaning product, as residue can build up on the tile and leave a dull or sticky film.
- For textured or heavily soiled surfaces, a tile-safe cleaner may provide better results.
Tip: Always check the tile manufacturer’s care recommendations before using a new cleaning product.
Step 3: Mop or Clean the Tile
Apply the cleaning solution using a clean microfiber mop or soft cloth.
- Work in manageable sections.
- Avoid flooding the floor with excessive water.
- For walls, backsplashes, or other vertical surfaces, use a soft sponge or microfiber cloth.
- For textured tile, use a soft nylon brush to work the cleaner into the surface.
Allow the cleaner to remain on the surface for the amount of time recommended by the product manufacturer, particularly when dealing with heavier soil.
Step 4: Pay Attention to Grout Lines
Grout can collect dirt and discoloration more readily than the tile itself.
For routine grout cleaning:
- Apply a tile-and-grout-safe cleaner.
- Allow it to dwell according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Gently scrub the grout using a soft nylon grout brush.
- Remove the dirty cleaning solution with clean water.
Avoid overly aggressive scrubbing, particularly on older or damaged grout, as this can cause unnecessary wear.
Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly
After cleaning, rinse the surface with clean water if required by the cleaning product.
This step is important because leftover cleaning solution can create a film or attract additional dirt.
- Use a clean mop or microfiber cloth.
- Change the rinse water frequently.
- Do not allow dirty water to dry on the surface.
Step 6: Dry the Surface
Drying your tile after cleaning helps prevent water spots and streaks.
- Use a clean, dry microfiber towel for smaller areas.
- For floors, use a clean, dry microfiber mop.
- In bathrooms and other wet areas, adequate ventilation can help the surface dry more quickly.
Step 7: Address Spills and Stains Promptly
Clean spills as soon as possible, especially in kitchens, bathrooms, and high-traffic areas.
For most everyday spills:
- Blot or wipe up the spill.
- Clean the area with a pH-neutral tile cleaner.
- Rinse if necessary.
- Dry with a clean cloth.
The longer certain substances remain on the surface, the more difficult they can become to remove.
What to Avoid
Proper products and techniques are important for maintaining the appearance of your tile and grout. Unless specifically recommended by the tile or cleaner manufacturer, avoid:
- Abrasive powders and harsh scouring pads
- Steel wool or wire brushes
- Highly acidic or highly alkaline cleaners
- Bleach or ammonia-based products for routine cleaning
- Wax-based cleaners or products that leave a coating
- Oil-based soaps that can leave a residue
- Excessive amounts of detergent
- Steam or high-pressure cleaning when it is not approved for the particular installation
Never mix cleaning chemicals. Combining products can create dangerous fumes or chemical reactions.
How Often Should Ceramic & Porcelain Tile Be Cleaned?
Cleaning frequency depends on the location and amount of traffic.
- Daily or as needed: Sweep or vacuum high-traffic floors and wipe up spills.
- Weekly: Damp mop floors and clean frequently used surfaces.
- Monthly or as needed: Give grout lines and high-use areas additional attention.
- Periodically: Perform a deeper cleaning when routine maintenance is no longer restoring the original appearance.
Bathrooms, entryways, kitchens, and commercial areas may require more frequent cleaning than lightly used spaces.
A Note About Grout
Ceramic and porcelain tile are generally very resistant to moisture and staining, but grout requires additional care. The type of grout, age of the installation, and whether it has been properly sealed can all affect maintenance requirements.
If grout becomes heavily stained, discolored, cracked, or difficult to clean, professional cleaning or restoration may be appropriate.
Always Follow the Manufacturer’s Recommendations
Tile products and installation materials can vary. Before using a cleaning product, check the recommendations provided by the tile, grout, and installation-material manufacturers.
When in doubt, test any new cleaning product on a small, inconspicuous area first.
Keep Your Tile Looking Its Best
With regular sweeping, proper cleaning products, prompt attention to spills, and appropriate grout maintenance, ceramic and porcelain tile can remain beautiful and durable for many years.
Casale Tile has been helping customers with tile and tile care since 1945. If you’re unsure which cleaning or maintenance products are appropriate for your tile, we’re happy to help.
Give us a call if you have any specific questions
718-761-7800
