Porcelain tile floors are the top pick for homeowners and businesses due to their easy maintenance and durability. With regular care and cleaning you can go some time in between a professional deep cleaning of the tile and grout. However there are a variety of porcelain floor types that require their own special cleaning and care. For the every day homeowner, Silver State Floor Restoration will share how to clean the various types of porcelain tile to get the best results and long term care.
What Cleaners Not to Use on Porcelain Tile
Before getting started there are a few footnotes we want to add. There are some cleaning methods and cleaners that should never be used on porcelain tile. First, never use any acidic based cleaner like ammonia or bleach on your floors. You shouldn’t use oil or wax on tile floors. For unglazed or polished floors, never use any dye or colored cleaner that can discolor the type of tile and never use harsh sponges or brushes to clean the tile.
How to Clean Unpolished or Unglazed Porcelain Tile
First, vacuum or sweep the porcelain floor to remove all debris and dirt from off the floor. Then take one section at a time. Don’t try to do the whole floor at once. Take about a two to four square foot section, saturate the tile surface with vinegar mixed with water, and allow the tile to soak for ten to fifteen minutes. While it is still wet, use a soft-bristle brush to scrub the floor. Wipe the area clean with a cloth and hot water. For a complete shine, use a micro fiber cloth to dry the surface. This is a good deep cleaning method for unpolished or unglazed floors that should be done monthly.
How to Clean Polished or Glazed Porcelain Tile in Showers & On Floors
For cleaning a porcelain floor that has a polished or glazed finish, start by sweeping or vacuuming all the dirt, dust and debris from off the floor. Additionally, go over it with a dust mop to pick up any stragglers that sometimes occur with a smooth surface. For the heavier soil or dirt build-up that occurs in higher traffic areas, use a soft nylon bristle brush or a toothbrush to loosen the dirt. Use warm water with vinegar or a commercial cleaner diluted, and mop the entire floor. Re-mop the floor again with straight hot water. After you have mopped for the second time, use a towel to dry the floor. If you want that extra shine, use a micro fiber cloth and then buff it out with a piece of cheese cloth. This will leave a cleaner shinier look for your floors.
Cleaning Textured Porcelain Tile
If you have a textured porcelain tile floor, use a soft bristled broom. Sweep once in one direction then again on an angle. Afterward, vacuum to insure all of the dirt is gone. You will want to saturate the floor with the water mixed vinegar solution and allow it to soak for fifteen minutes. Scrub the floor with a bristle brush, once again in two directions to loosen on the dirt that often rests in the grain and texture of the tile. Rinse the floor with hot water to remove the vinegar off your floor. Quickly dry the floor with a towel.
Porcelain & Other Tile Cleaning & Sealing in Las Vegas Valley NV, Summerlin, North LV & Henderson Nevada
Porcelain tile can be easily cared for and kept cleaned. However, sometimes the homeowner gets caught up in other activities or just never has enough time to tend to their own floor. Time can take a toll as well. Silver State Floor Restoration can help revitalize the look of your porcelain floor. If it is time for a good deep cleaning of your porcelain floor and its grout line, contact us today to schedule an appointment.
