Porcelain tiles are a form of ceramic tiles that are made from finer clays and are pressed together under greater pressure and at a higher temperature than ceramic tiles. Porcelain tiles are durable and are extremely child and asthma friendly. They are also one of the easiest floors to care for. If cared for properly, porcelain tiles do not require any special cleaners, which tend to be extremely costly.
Types of porcelain tiles:
- Polished porcelain: a nano finished* double loaded porcelain, which is also available in a matte and structured finish (cannot be sealed).
- Glazed porcelain: does not stain as it has a glaze over the surface.
*Note: Nano finished refers to the factory treatment that seals porcelain tiles. This technology means that your tiles will not stain and they do not require sealing.
STEPS IN CLEANING POLISHED AND GLAZED PORCELAIN TILES (For polished and glazed porcelain tiles, these instructions should be followed for general cleaning.)
YOU WILL NEED:
- Water
- Bucket
- Sponge mop
- Porcelain tile cleaner or
- 1⁄4 cup vinegar with 7 liters (1.8 gal) hot water, or
- All-purpose household cleaner
PROCEDURE:
- Sweep or vacuum loose dirt and dust from the floor. Use an untreated, dry dust mop instead of a broom.
- Mop the floor with a mild cleaning solution. The concentration of the detergent should be 50% less than the amount used on an unpolished porcelain tile floor.
- Rinse the porcelain tiled floor with clean water.
- Dry carefully to increase the shine and to prevent water spots.
It is important that you do not use bleach or acid-based products when cleaning your tiles. These harsh chemicals deteriorate the protective sealing and ultimately cause non-reversible damage to your tiles.
If your tiles are starting to appear discolored or slightly hazy, it might be time for a more intense clean.