Tile Care & Maintenance – Professional
PORCELAIN • CERAMIC • NATURAL STONE
Practical guidance for routine cleaning, stain prevention and long-term care. Following the correct care method will help protect the appearance and performance of your tiled surfaces and grout.
DO
Use warm water and a pH-neutral cleaner.
AVOID
Acids, bleach, ammonia and harsh chemicals.
ACT QUICKLY
Wipe spills and dyes promptly, then rinse and dry.
Porcelain & Ceramic Tiles
Routine cleaning
- 1 Remove loose dirt: Sweep or vacuum the tiled surface to remove dust, grit and debris.
- 2 Clean gently: Use a microfibre mop or soft cleaning cloth with warm water and a pH-neutral cleaner.
- 3 Protect grout and glaze: Do not use products containing acids, ammonia or other harsh chemicals, as they may damage grout and glazed tile surfaces.
- 4 Check compatibility: Choose products that are suitable for both the tile and the installed grout to reduce the risk of damage or discolouration.
Preventing stains and scratches
- Porcelain is highly resistant to scratching, etching and staining, but it is not damage-proof.
- Avoid contact with permanent inks and dyes. If contact occurs, rinse the area with water immediately, apply an approved cleaning product, then rinse and dry thoroughly.
- Wipe up juice, wine, coffee and other food or drink spills promptly to minimise the chance of staining.
Natural Stone
Routine care
Natural stone is naturally porous. Cleaners that are acceptable for porcelain or ceramic tile may stain, dull or damage stone. Dust and grit can also scratch the surface, so regular removal of loose debris is important.
Important: Use only neutral cleaners formulated for natural stone. Never use acid, bleach or vinegar solutions, as these can etch and permanently damage the surface.
Maintaining polished stone
After cleaning, a suitable spray-buff wax-type floor finish may be applied periodically to enhance the lustre of polished stone. Apply with a spray applicator and buff immediately using a white nylon pad. Always confirm product suitability before use.
Using a stone cleaner
- 1 Select a cleaner specifically formulated for natural stone. It should be acid-free, pH-neutral and compatible with existing sealers or wax-type coatings.
- 2 Dampen the stone with clean water before applying the cleaning solution. This helps keep the product on the surface so it can work effectively.
- 3 Mix the cleaner with water in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
- 4 Apply with a sponge or mop. For walls, benchtops and vanity tops, a spray bottle may be used.
- 5 Allow the solution to remain on the surface for the manufacturer’s specified dwell time, generally 3–5 minutes.
- 6 Agitate using a sponge, synthetic mop, soft-bristle brush or suitable floor-scrubbing machine.
- 7 Remove the dirty solution, rinse as required and buff the surface dry.
Important Notes
Always read the product label and technical bulletin before use.
Test the product in a small, inconspicuous area before treating the full surface.
Follow the cleaner manufacturer’s instructions for dilution, application, dwell time and rinsing.
Disclaimer
This “Routine Care and Maintenance of Porcelain, Ceramic and Natural Stone Tiles” guide has been compiled from various sources and was believed to be accurate at the time of publication. Tiles Together Pty Ltd trading as Tile Bazaar accepts no responsibility for the performance of cleaning products or for any consequential damage arising from their use, as product quality control and application are outside the control of Tiles Together Pty Ltd trading as Tile Bazaar.