How to Clean Matte Porcelain Tiles: Steps & Tips

Matte porcelain tiles are the perfect choice if you're going for a more rustic and natural aesthetic in your living space. However, you want to prolong their lifespan and maintain their appearance with proper cleaning methods.

Matte porcelain tiles have a dull and rough appearance and are primarily renowned for their non-slip properties. These tiles are ideal for flooring in various spaces and even walls, especially those most exposed to water and moisture.

You can find matte porcelain tiles in pool areas, balconies, bathrooms, showers, kitchens, gardens, and many other spaces. They are typically strong and durable, and when installed indoors, they can give your space an air of elegance.

Gray matte porcelain tiles | Source: Getty Images

However, like other types of tiles and flooring, matte porcelain tiles need to be maintained adequately with regular and occasional deep cleaning. Before beginning your cleaning routine, here are some tips to remember:

• Avoid aggressive or harsh detergents.
• Use a neutral detergent with warm water and a soft, dampened microfiber cloth.
• Dilute your detergents generously to avoid unsightly streaks.
• If you have matte porcelain tiles or stoneware installed as a backsplash, use a degreasing detergent or a baking soda and water solution to remove the stains, followed by a thorough rinse.

Gray matte porcelain tiles in a bathroom | Source: Getty Images

How to Clean Matte Porcelain Tiles

Regular Cleaning Step-by-Step

Regular cleaning for your matte porcelain tiles should be done at least 2-3 times a week to maintain a tidy appearance. Here's how:

1. Remove any loose dust and debris using a vacuum cleaner or a broom (recommended).

Sweep your tiles | Source: Shutterstock

2. Fill a small bucket with four parts warm water and one part liquid soap. Note: Depending on the size of the area you're cleaning, you may need more or less.

3. Dip a mop or a soft micro-fiber cloth into your cleaning solution and wring to remove excess water. Wipe down your matte porcelain tiles.

Mop your porcelain tiles | Source: Shutterstock

4. For localized stains, dip a soft nylon brush into the solution and gently scrub the dirt off in circular motions. (Note: avoid using the brush on dry areas of the tiles, as that may damage their appearance.)

Scrub the localized stains | Source: Shutterstock

5. Drain the dirty water and fill your bucket with clean water.

6. Dip a clean mop or cloth (or thoroughly rinse the one you've already used) into the fresh water and wring to remove the excess.

7. Wipe down your tiles to rinse. This will also help remove any remaining detergent residue and dirt.

8. Leave your floor to dry for about half an hour.

Leave your floor to dry after mopping with clean water | Source: Shutterstock

Deep Cleaning

Deep cleaning matte porcelain tiles is not so different from regular cleaning; there are just a few additional steps. It's recommended that you deep-clean your tiles every 1-2 months.

Method 1

Mix a solution of vinegar and warm water in a spray bottle and spray your matte porcelain tiles. Wait 15-30 minutes, then continue with your regular cleaning routine. The vinegar solution will help to remove fungus and mold, as well as the hard-water build-up.

Spray your matte porcelain tiles with a vinegar and water solution for deep cleaning | Source: Shutterstock

Method 2

1. Remove any loose dust and debris using a vacuum cleaner or a broom (recommended).

2. Fill a small bucket with five parts warm water, one part liquid soap, and one part white vinegar. Ensure you stir the solution so everything mixes. Note: Depending on the size of the area you're cleaning, you may need more or less.

5. Drain the dirty water and fill your bucket with clean water.

6. Dip a clean mop or cloth into the fresh water and wring to remove some excess, leaving it relatively damp.

7. Wipe down your tiles to rinse. This will also help remove any remaining detergent residue and dirt. Dip your cloth or mop back into the water intermittently to refresh it.

8. Leave your floor to dry for about half an hour.

Bathroom interior with matte porcelain-tiled surfaces | Source: Shutterstock

Now that you know how and when to clean your tiles, ensure you add the cleaning routine to your schedule. If your balcony has matte porcelain tile flooring, here's how to clean that space without upsetting your neighbors.