Porcelain stoneware maintenance: the ultimate guide to cleaning tiles

The success of porcelain stoneware floor and wall tiles depends, first and foremost, on aesthetic factors. However, practical benefits also play a very important role. In addition to the wide choice of amazing and ultra-realistic designs, it is certainly its extraordinary ease of cleaning that makes this material preferable to many others.

In this regard, we need only think that for centuries we have been using (and reusing, countless times!) glazed ceramic plates for meals. Stoneware floor and wall tiles are equally easy to clean and sanitise. But, why?

The secret lies in the exceptional strength with which the ceramic mixture is pressed and the extremely high firing temperatures. The combination of these two factors makes porcelain stoneware extremely compact and, therefore, pore-free. Therefore, dirt has no way of penetrating below the surface, much less of permanently staining the floor.

Obviously, this extraordinary resistance to stains does not prevent porcelain stoneware from getting dirty if we accidentally spill a glass of wine or carelessly drop our lipstick. However, it does mean that most stains can be removed by simply washing the ceramic with warm water, especially if we act quickly.

It must also be noted that porcelain stoneware requires no ongoing maintenance, as is the case for example with stone, marble, cement and terracotta.

So, let us look in more detail at how to clean the different types of porcelain stoneware, based on their characteristics and finishes.

How to clean matt porcelain stoneware: techniques and products

To clean porcelain stoneware, first of all the dirt must be removed with a broom or vacuum cleaner. At this point, the surface is ready to be washed with a good quality microfibre cloth soaked in warm water, without adding any detergent. It is that simple. Occasionally, you can use a neutral detergent, provided it is wax-free; just add it to the washing water and make sure to rinse the surface. We recommend not to exceed the detergent dosage unless the floor is particularly dirty. In this case, it is important to rinse it several times.

Also, pay attention to these simple but useful tips for proper daily cleaning:

• do not use abrasive cleaners or steel wool pads
• do not allow stains to dry, as they will be more difficult to remove
• clean spilled liquids immediately: even just water, when evaporating, leaves behind limescale residues that more easily retain dirt

How to clean wood-effect porcelain stoneware

If the floor has a particularly prominent surface structure (e.g. a finely rustic wood effect such as Cadore) or has a high level of grip, in addition to what has already been mentioned, we recommend using more washing water, which should then be removed with a well-wrung cloth. Finally, to clean porcelain stoneware, you can use a steam cleaner or a floor cleaning machine, especially for outdoor surfaces, which are rougher and more exposed to dirt.

How to clean polished porcelain stoneware

Porcelain stoneware with a glossy finish is an elegant and refined surface that is extremely smooth and therefore easier to clean and dry. However, to preserve its beauty and splendour, it is important to remove coarse dirt and dust with particular care before washing. When cleaning polished surfaces (such as the sophisticated Allure and StarLight marble effects), it is important not to use waxes or detergents with polishing additives. These compounds tend to settle on the surface, creating patinas to which dirt clings more easily, forming halos and diminishing the vividness of ceramic colours. It is also essential not to use abrasive sponges, even in the case of stubborn stains.

Cleaning porcelain stoneware: how to remove stains from flooring

Depending on the type of stain, it is important to choose the right detergent and use it correctly (carefully following the dilution instructions) and leaving it to act for the specified time. A microfibre cloth and thorough rinsing of the affected area is always recommended. If the stain is old, scrubbing it with a soft bristle brush can be helpful.