Last Updated on October 17, 2023
Matte finish porcelain tiles add a touch of sophistication to any shower space, and regular maintenance is essential to preserve their beauty and longevity. However, their unique texture demands a specific approach when cleaning them.
Begin by removing any loose dirt or grime on the tile surface. Afterward, prepare a bucket of warm water and combine it with a gentle detergent or tile cleaner.
Carefully cleanse your tiles using a soft sponge or cloth, employing circular motions to ensure the delicate surface remains unharmed. When scrubbing is done, rinse the tiles thoroughly with fresh water.
From preparing the tile cleaning solution to eliminating stubborn stains, we will share every detail step to keep your tiles clean. So, keep reading for a pristine shower.
Step by Step to Clean Shower Matte-Textured Porcelain Tiles
To clean the matte porcelain shower tiles, you need to follow some steps carefully:
- Step 1: Prepare the cleaning solution
- Step 2: Remove loose debris from the tiles
- Step 3: Mop the shower tiles with care
- Step 4: Address and eliminate stubborn stains
- Step 5: Rinse the area thoroughly
Gather Your Supplies:
Before diving into the cleaning process, assemble the necessary supplies:
- pH-neutral cleaner
- White vinegar
- Soft-bristled brush or mop head
- Bucket
- Mild soap
- Baking soda
- Water
Step 1: Prepare the Cleaning Substance
Start by mixing a quarter cup of mild soap and a cup of white vinegar with warm water together. The mild soap helps remove dirt or grime buildup, while the white vinegar is a natural disinfectant, ensuring a hygienic space.
Step 2: Remove Loosen Debris from the Tiles
You can now focus on removing loose dirt and debris from the tiles. Start using a soft-bristle brush or a microfiber cloth to gently scrub the tiles’ surface.
Make sure to reach all corners and crevices to ensure no dirt is left behind. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbing tools that could damage the delicate matte finish of the tiles.
Step 3: Mop the Shower Tiles with Care
After removing the loose debris, dip the soft-bristled brush or mop head into the prepared cleaning solution. Make sure to wring out excess water to avoid oversaturating the tiles. Gently mop the tiles in a small area, using even strokes.
Step 4: Address and Eliminate Stubborn Stains
To eliminate stubborn stains, stir baking soda with a small amount of water to produce a paste and spread it to the affected area. The alkaline nature of baking soda helps break down these tough stains while being gentle on the delicate surface of matte-textured porcelain tiles.
Once you have applied the paste, allow it to remain for a few minutes so the baking soda can do its work. Then, lightly scrub the area in circular motions using a soft-bristled brush. This will help lift away the stain without causing any damage to your tiles.
Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly the Area
After eliminating stubborn stains, rinse off any remaining cleaning solution or soap that may still be lingering on the surface. Residual soap can leave a film on your tiles, making them appear dirty.
By rinsing with clean water, you ensure that all traces of cleaning products are completely washed away. Use a handheld showerhead or a bucket of water to thoroughly rinse the entire surface of the tiles, paying special attention to any crevices or grout lines.
What Shouldn’t I Use to Clean Shower Matte Finish Porcelain Tiles?
When cleaning matte finish porcelain tiles in a shower, there are certain cleaning agents and tools you should avoid to prevent damage. Here’s what you shouldn’t use:
Vinegar and Acidic Cleaners
You might be tempted to use acidic substances like vinegar, lemon juice, or acidic tile cleaners to clean your shower tiles. But beware because these cleaners can be incredibly harmful to the finish of matte finish porcelain tiles over time.
The major issue with using acidic cleaners on matte-finish porcelain tiles is that they can cause etching and discoloration. Also, acid in the cleaners can slowly eat away at the top coat layer of the tile, causing an uneven, unattractive look.
Furthermore, these cleaners can damage the grout as well. The acid dissolves the grout, causing it to weaken and fall out. This, in turn, can lead to water leaking into your walls and causing damage.
Steel Wool or Harsh Scrubbing Brushes
You might think using steel wool or a stiff-bristle brush is the best way to remove built-up grime on your shower tiles. However, using these materials can easily scratch and damage the matte surface of your porcelain tiles.
One thing you might not know is that steel wool can also create rust on your shower tiles. When the steel wool is left on the tile, it can create rust that can be difficult to remove. The rust can also damage the finish of the matte porcelain tile.
Highly Concentrated Cleaners
When cleaning your matte finish porcelain tiles, avoid using cleaners with high concentrations of chemicals. These types of cleaners can cause damage to your tiles and sometimes even erode the surface. In addition, highly concentrated cleaners can cause skin irritation and respiratory problems.
They contain harsh chemicals that aren’t safe for prolonged use. Using them in a confined space like a shower can cause a buildup of fumes that can be particularly dangerous.
Is matte porcelain tile hard to clean?
Although matte-textured porcelain tiles are easy to wash, they require frequent maintenance and cleaning. While they may not show stains and smudges as quickly as other tiles, they require more cleaning effort.
Simply wiping them with a wet cloth won’t be enough. You’ll have to put in some hard work to remove stains effectively.
How frequently should I clean my matte porcelain shower tiles?
Maintaining in a week is key to preserving the pristine appearance of your matte porcelain shower tiles. To maintain their beauty, cleaning them deeply at least once every 3 to 6 months is recommended. Doing so can prevent dirt and grime from building up and potentially causing damage to the tiles.
Can I use regular soap to clean matte-textured porcelain tiles?
Regular soap or a mild detergent is a safe and effective option for cleaning matte-finish porcelain tiles. Harsh chemicals or acidic cleaners should be avoided as they can damage the tile’s finish.
To clean matte porcelain shower tiles, mix a soapy solution with a small amount of regular soap with warm water. Gently scrub the tiles with a soft cloth or sponge, focusing on areas with dirt or stains.
Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove all soap residue, then dry the tiles with a clean towel or cloth. Regular soap helps keep matte porcelain shower tiles clean and maintains their beautiful appearance over time.
Clean Your Matte Finish Porcelain Tiles for a Pristine Shower
Cleaning matte-finish porcelain tiles in the shower may require some extra effort, but it can be easily accomplished with the right approach. Following the above steps, you can effectively remove debris and stubborn stains from your tiles. To prevent stains, rinse the area thoroughly to ensure no residue is left behind.
While matte-finish porcelain tiles may require more attention than others, regular cleaning will help maintain their appearance and longevity. Avoid using regular soap as it may leave a film on the tiles.