How to clean porcelain and keep it new longer

Porcelanate is a type of ceramic coating that can be used indoors and outdoors, characterized by its low water absorption, uniformity of color and high resistance to physical and chemical abrasion. Among the options of tiles, porcelain has dominated the world market and has as main producers countries such as Italy, Spain, China and Brazil.

Currently, a multitude of porcelain tiles are available in the market and their use varies according to the type of environment in which it is intended to be applied.

The most common types are polished porcelain tiles? whose surface is smooth and the application is indicated for indoor areas; the structured ones? with a slightly abrasive surface and suitable for areas with damp and enamelled, which receive a gloss layer and are most used indoors. There are also natural, satin, rustic and non-slip porcelain tiles.

With the wide spread and use of the coating, it is common to have doubts about how to maintain and clean them. Some precautions and precautions should be taken when it comes to cleaning the porcelain tiles. Check out some tips from Personal Organizer Adriani Gonçalves for the correct cleaning of porcelain.

Daily cleaning

Porcelain tile cleaning should always be done using neutral detergent diluted with water and soft cloths. This rule applies to all types of porcelain, polished, matte, structured and enamelled. Follow the expert's suggestions:

1. Sweep the floor with a broom, or vacuum with a brushed vacuum cleaner nozzle to prevent the floor from scratching;
2. Prepare a solution with a spoonful of neutral detergent for 5 liters of water and wipe it with a soft cloth over the surface;
3. To avoid the formation of water stains, finish the cleaning with a dry cloth with alcohol.

In the case of weekly and monthly cleanings the same recommendations of daily cleaning should be followed. To clean the grout use creamy liquid soaps. Never use granules that may scratch the floor.

Heavy cleaning (post work)

The first post-work cleaning must be performed no later than 14 days after grout application. The goal is to ensure the complete removal of all construction waste, especially grout residues, which may stick to the floor surface, making it look grimy.

According to Adriani, for post work cleaning it is recommended to use heavy cleaning products available at specialized floor stores. To make it easier, follow these steps:

1. Rinse the floor to remove all product and dirt residue;
2. Apply the specific product for heavy cleaning following the manufacturer's recommendations;
3. Remove accumulated dirt with water. Do not let the product dry on the floor;
4. If necessary, repeat the process.

What to avoid when cleaning porcelain

Despite being highly resistant, porcelain glaze and grout itself can be damaged when improper abrasives or chemicals are applied. So avoid the products listed below:

• Washing powder;
• Saponaceous powder;
• Waxes;
• Brushes;
• Acids;
• Sanitary water;
• Caustic soda;
• Acetone;
• Ammonia

Care in use and stains

To avoid scratching porcelain tiles, it is best to protect the furniture feet with felt and to be careful when dragging furniture.

In the case of grease stains, oil, crayons, pencils, as well as rust and fruit juice stains, they should be removed with alkaline detergent and with liquid soaps or alcohol. The same goes for wine, coffee and soda stains.

Paint stains should be removed with organic solvent or detergent such as Thinner and raz water. These products also help remove lime and cement residues. If you use these substances, rinse thoroughly immediately.

4 Essential Tips and Tricks for Perfect Cleaning

1. Always clean up any spilled liquid immediately. This will prevent the floor from staining.
2. Use large, good-quality mats at the entrance and exit of all exterior doors to keep the floor free of dirt and scratches.
3. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to best clean your floor.
4. To remove stains and shoe marks rub the mark with an eraser. If there are scratches, rub them with a tennis ball.

By taking these precautions when cleaning, you keep your brand new flooring much longer, extending its useful life.

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