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How do I Clean Polished Porcelain?

By Christina Edwards
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 36,024
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Cleaning polished porcelain tile is very similar to cleaning ceramic tile. Surface grime, such as dirt and dust, should first be swept away from these types of tile floors, and they can then be mopped, using a mild cleanser. After cleaning, most manufacturers recommend that you rinse and dry your polished porcelain tiles.

The first step of cleaning polished porcelain is removing any dirt and dust. These tiny particles can rub on the surface of the porcelain and possibly scratch the finish. Tiles on floors should be vacuumed or swept. A dry dust mop or microfiber cloth is usually recommended for this task, since the broom's bristles could also scratch the floor.

A cleaning solution for polished porcelain should be very mild. Typically, most manufacturers recommend using a solution of one part neutral detergent and three parts hot water. Others instruct consumers to use a mild all-purpose cleaner. It is important, however, to avoid oil-based cleaners, since they can leave a film or residue that can trap dirt or grime.

The cleaning solution can either be mixed in a bucket or a spray bottle. Polished porcelain counters are often much easier to clean using a spray bottle. In these situations, the solution can be sprayed on and wiped with a sponge. After wiping the counter, the cleaning solution should then be rinsed off with clean water and dried thoroughly.

Larger areas of polished porcelain, such as floors, may be easier to clean using a mop bucket filled with the cleaning solution. This can be applied to floors with a sponge mop or a microfiber mop. As with counters, the cleaning solution should also be rinsed off of floors before drying. This can be done by using a mop saturated with clean water, but a spray bottle filled with clean water may also work.

After being rinsed, it is also recommended that all polished porcelain be dried thoroughly. This will help prevent any streaks or water spots. Usually, a soft cloth or terry cloth towel is best for this. You can also use a buffing pad to help maintain the luster of the tiles.

Tough spots of grime, like mud or dried food, can be scrubbed with a soft bristled brush. Metal scouring pads, like steel wool, should never be used on these types of porcelain tile. These cleaning tools can possibly scratch the surface of the tiles, causing it to look dull.

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Discussion Comments
By drtroubles — On Nov 06, 2011

Does anyone know if polished porcelain is a good choice for wall tiles?

I am currently working on refinishing my kitchen and my wife wants a back splash reminiscent of subway tiles. From looking at various wall tiles in store it seems like polished porcelain may give us the look we want.

The tile shop we go to is also offering us a good discount if we buy our flooring through them as well. Do you think it is a good idea to take the discount, or to buy our floor and wall tiles separately. They don't have to match exactly, just look complimentary.

By Sara007 — On Nov 05, 2011

@Mae82 - If you are worried about cleaning your kitchen flooring, don't be. All porcelain tiles are pretty hardy, and it will take a bit more than getting damp to bring them up if they were installed correctly.

As far as cleaning your polished porcelain tiles goes I would use a little lemon juice in water to wash them with. It is a great natural way to clean and won't leave streaks. If you don't have lemon juice, you can always use a bit of vinegar in water for the same cleaning power. Both of these are great for leaving a streak-free shine, which is why so many people use these mixes on windows. Also, if you have any tough spots on your tile design, just use a little baking soda and water to scrub the area clean.

By Mae82 — On Nov 04, 2011

What are some natural ways you can help clean your polished porcelain floor tiles?

The house I am currently living in has really nice kitchen tiles that we installed and I am worried about scratching them by using too harsh an abrasive. I know with my mom's ceramic flooring that she is really careful about what she uses to keep her kitchen clean.

Also, is air drying OK for porcelain floor tiles, or is there a chance of them coming up if they stay too wet? I admit to buying discount porcelain tiles, so I am not sure how well they will stand up to staying damp for an extended period of time.

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