Matte porcelain floors are also known as unglazed tile floors. This material has a unique, beautiful look that you may love. Because of its special properties, care must be taken to clean the surface without damaging it. Are you ready to learn how to clean matte porcelain tiles property?
Before You Learn How to Clean Matte Porcelain Tiles
The processes for cleaning matte porcelain tile versus glazed tile differ, so you must first determine which type of porcelain tile you are working with. When a glaze is baked onto tile, the surface usually takes on a veining pattern or shows off another seemingly complex design. On the other hand, unglazed tile usually has a matte finish that lacks definition or elaborate patterns. With unglazed tile, you will generally find a single color rather than variations. If you are still unsure about the type of porcelain tile that you are working with, pour a small amount of water on the surface. After five minutes, dry off the tile. If the tile is discolored or darker where the water was, you most likely have unglazed tile.
The Tile Cleaning Process
Because unglazed porcelain tile is rougher, the tile has a tendency to collect and to hang onto dirt more easily than glazed porcelain tile. The rough texture also makes cleaning more time-consuming. Nonetheless, with the right method, you can remove the grime and restore the beauty of your floor.
Prepare Your Matte Porcelain Tiles Cleaning Agent
Add a gallon of warm water in a clean bucket. Pour in a cup of distilled white vinegar and a teaspoon of dry dish detergent. Use a large spoon to dissolve the detergent and vinegar in the water. Then, set this mixture aside.
Scrub Floor Tiles
Sweep the floor to remove topical debris. Then, using a clean scrub brush with stiff bristles, scrub the tile and grout thoroughly. This will loosen some of the debris that is in the rough surface on the tile and in the grout. You will need to sweep the floor again to remove the loose debris before proceeding.
Apply the Tile Cleaning Agent
Using a clean mop, sanitize the tile with the mixture in your bucket. If you prefer to take a hands-on approach, you can also use a clean rag or a scrub brush. Your cleaning agent is safe for you to touch, but you may prefer to wear gloves so that your hands do not smell like vinegar.
Rinse and Dry the Floor
Before you can call the project done, you must remove the cleaning agent from the floor. You can wipe down the floor with a clean mop or with a damp rag and fresh water. After rinsing off the floor, dry it thoroughly.
Apply a Protective Barrier
A sealant is not usually applied to unglazed porcelain tile. However, you can apply a protective barrier to safeguard your tile. Look for a barrier that is specifically designed for use on this type of flooring. Remember to test an out-of-the-way area of the tile as a precaution before spreading it across your floor.
Use a Neutral Tiles Cleaning Product Daily
This type of flooring can easily be damaged if it is not properly cared for. After you determine that your tiles are comprised of unglazed porcelain, utilize these steps to keep it clean and well-maintained throughout its life in your home. Get in the habit of sweeping the floor daily to reduce the presence of ground-in dirt. You also can use a neutral cleaning agent regularly to address routine maintenance needs.
