A Guide to Tile Maintenance
Tile is made to last, but every material has its own care requirements. Understanding what your surface needs can help preserve its appearance, performance, and longevity.
From everyday cleaning to grout care and sealing, here are the essentials for keeping your tile looking its best.
PORCELAIN
Durable. Low maintenance. Made for everyday living.
Regularly sweep or vacuum to remove dirt and grit, then clean with a neutral pH, non oil based cleaner and warm water. Use a soft mop, microfiber cloth, sponge, or non metallic brush.
Keep in mind: Most porcelain does not require sealing, although some polished porcelain may have different requirements. Grout may require sealing depending on the type.
Avoid: Acidic cleaners, ammonia, and abrasive cleaning tools.
CERAMIC
Versatile, durable, and easy to live with.
Remove loose dirt regularly before cleaning with a neutral pH, non oil based cleaner. Rinse away any residue and dry the surface after cleaning.
Don't overlook the grout. Regular cleaning helps prevent buildup, while cementitious grout can be sealed when recommended by the manufacturer.
Keep in mind: Glazed ceramic generally does not require sealing.
Avoid: Acidic cleaners, ammonia, and abrasive products.
NATURAL STONE
Naturally unique and worth a little extra attention.
Natural stone requires products specifically formulated for stone. Clean regularly with a neutral pH cleaner and wipe up spills promptly to help prevent staining.
Sealing can increase a stone's resistance to moisture and staining, but requirements vary by material and finish.
Keep in mind: Marble, limestone, travertine, and other calcium based stones can be etched by acids.
Avoid: Vinegar, lemon, citrus, and other acidic cleaners, as well as abrasive tools.
GLASS
Non porous, reflective, and relatively easy to maintain.
Clean glass tile with a suitable non abrasive cleaner and a microfiber cloth, soft sponge, or nylon brush. For shower installations, regularly removing water from the surface can help reduce water spots and mineral buildup.
Keep in mind: Glass itself does not require sealing, although surrounding grout may.
Avoid: Steel wool, sandpaper, scouring pads, and other abrasive materials.
THE TILE CARE ESSENTIALS
REMOVE THE GRIT
Sweep or vacuum regularly. Dirt and sand can act as abrasives and cause unnecessary wear.
CLEAN SPILLS PROMPTLY
The sooner a spill is removed, the less opportunity it has to stain or penetrate the surface.
CHOOSE THE RIGHT CLEANER
There is no universal tile cleaner. Choose a product appropriate for the specific tile, finish, and grout.
PROTECT THE SURFACE
Use entry mats and furniture protectors to reduce scratches, impact, and tracked in debris.
KNOW WHEN TO SEAL
Not every tile requires sealing. Natural stone and certain grout types may benefit from it, while most glazed porcelain and ceramic tile do not.
FOLLOW THE MANUFACTURER
Care requirements can vary between products and finishes. Always refer to the manufacturer's recommendations before using a new cleaner, sealer, or intensive cleaning method.
MADE TO LAST
Tile is designed to be lived with. With the right everyday care and a little attention to the material itself, you can help preserve its beauty and performance for years to come.