How to Clean Porcelain Tile: Easy-to-Follow Steps

Porcelain tile is one of the leading choices for floors, showers, and walls—and it’s easy to see why! It’s durable, stylish, and fits into just about any space. But to keep your porcelain tile looking its best, regular cleaning is a must.

Whether you’re dealing with polished or unglazed tile, knowing the right techniques can make all the difference. Let’s dive into how to clean porcelain tile for your kitchen, bathroom, showers, and more!

How to Clean Porcelain Tile

Before you start cleaning, there are a few things you’ll need:

• Broom or vacuum (with a hard floor setting)
• Mop or microfiber cloth
• Soft-bristle brush or sponge
• Neutral pH tile cleaner or commercial cleaning supplies, such as Fila.
• White vinegar and baking soda (for tougher stains)
• Spray bottle
• Warm water
• Squeegee (for showers)
• Rubber gloves
• Microfiber or soft cloth (for drying and polishing)

With these essentials, you’ll now be ready to clean any surface.

Easy Steps to Clean Porcelain Tile Floors

Learning how to clean porcelain tile floors is easy and low maintenance but requires regular care to prevent buildup.

1. Sweep or Vacuum: Remove dust and debris with a broom or vacuum.
2. Mop with Warm Water: Use a damp mop with clean, warm water for light cleaning.
3. Apply a Mild Cleaner: For deeper cleaning, mix a few drops of a neutral pH tile cleaner with water. Mop the floor and let the solution sit for a few minutes. You can also use Fila or Laticrete porcelain tile cleaners.
4. Rinse Thoroughly: Mop again with plain water to remove any cleaner residue.
5. Dry the Surface: Prevent water spots by drying the tiles with a microfiber cloth.

For high-traffic areas, consider cleaning weekly. Proper maintenance ensures your floors stay pristine and safe for everyday use.

How to Clean Porcelain Tile Showers

Showers are more prone to soap scum, hard water stains, and mildew, especially with daily use. Cleaning porcelain shower tile is similar to cleaning other bathroom surfaces, but attention to detail matters. Always avoid harsh abrasives that can scratch tiles. For polished finishes, use a soft cloth for scrubbing.

Here’s how to clean porcelain tile showers effectively:

1. Daily Maintenance: Wipe down the shower walls with a squeegee or a microfiber cloth after use.
2. Tackle Soap Scum: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the tiles and let the solution sit for 10–15 minutes before scrubbing with a soft-bristle brush.
   • It’s important to note that vinegar is acidic, so it must be diluted to prevent damage to your porcelain tile and grout.
   • For really stubborn soap scum, you can mix equal parts white distilled vinegar with blue dawn dish soap into a spray bottle, shake and spray. Allow the solution to sit for 10-15 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.
3. Remove Hard Water Stains: Use a commercial tile cleaner or make a paste of baking soda and water. Gently scrub, then rinse thoroughly.

You’re all set! With regular upkeep, your shower will stay fresh and inviting.

Polished Porcelain Tile

Polished porcelain tile adds elegance to the atmosphere, but it can show smudges and streaks more easily than matte finishes. Follow these simple steps below on how to clean polished porcelain tile:

1. Dust or Vacuum: Remove surface debris to avoid scratching.
2. Use a Gentle Cleaner: Mix a mildly alkaline or pH-neutral detergent with warm water and mop or wipe the surface. You can also use Fila cleaning products for polished porcelain tile.
3. Buff for Shine: After cleaning, buff the surface with a dry, soft cloth for a streak-free shine.

Avoid using abrasive scrubbing pads to prevent scratches during cleaning.

How to Clean Unglazed Porcelain Tile

Unglazed porcelain tiles have a matte finish and require a slightly different cleaning approach:

1. Sweep or Vacuum: Remove loose dirt to prevent scratches.
2. Scrub with a Stiff Brush: Mix warm water and a pH-neutral cleaner. Use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub the tiles.
3. Rinse Well: Rinse thoroughly to remove all cleaner residue.
4. Avoid Sealing: Unlike glazed tiles, unglazed tiles should not be sealed, as they can impact their appearance.

Routine maintenance and the right cleaning products will help keep your tiles looking as good as new for years to come.

Your Trusted Porcelain Tile Experts
We hope today’s tips make caring for your porcelain tiles easier! Whether you’re planning to upgrade your existing tile or explore exciting new options, Tile X Design is here to help. We proudly provide homeowners and residential pros with high-quality materials and expert advice to bring your vision to life.

Our service areas include:

• Minnesota
• Wisconsin
• Iowa
• Nebraska
• North Dakota
• South Dakota

For commercial professionals, most US-based requests can be accommodated.

Contact Tile X Design today to learn more about our wide selection of tiles, or stop by our stone and tile showroom in Plymouth, MN!