Maintenance & Care

Tile are in fact, low-maintenance and are easy to take care of overtime. Keep debris such as sand and dirt off the floor as they can be abrasive to tile floor surface. On a weekly basis, regularly vacuum, sweep and mop will allow to reduce from surface scratching over time. With occasional spills, it is advised to wipe them up immediately using a sponge, with soap and water mixture. It is important to understand qualities of different types of tiles, in which cleaning a glazed tile is different to the process to maintain unglazed surfaces. Fortunately, both methods are similar and easy to maintain so we summarized these simple tips for you below. 

Everyday Cleaning & Preventive Care
These tiles require minimal maintenance with regular vacuuming and mopping. For most households, light daily or weekly cleaning is more than sufficient, while high-traffic areas and commercial spaces will require frequent attention.

Recommended Routine
- Sweep floors with a soft-bristle broom
- Vacuum as needed, ensuring the vacuum head is suitable
- Immediately wipe up spills or containments to prevent build-up
- Mop floors with solution of warm water and pH-neutral cleaner
- Use microfibre mop for regular maintenance to capture dust

The overuse of acidic cleaning materials can diminish the shininess of surface or produce a haze on top. It is recommended that solution is to be highly diluted with warm water to prevent this from happening. Check the back of your cleaning detergents if they are suitable for floor tiles.

In high-traffic areas and wet areas, place walk-off mats and area mats at entryway. Both will collect dirt and dust from shoes that would otherwise reach the floor. Regularly, both should be shaken out to remove excess debris. Moving furniture onto a tiled surface should be handled with consideration and care, as dragging across the floor can result in permanent surface scratches. You may want to consider installing feet protectors to ensure the longevity of tiles. 

Glazed & Unglazed Tiles
Understanding the type of tile installed is the key to maintain it correctly. We recommend following the manufacturer or installer advice regarding sealing and maintenance for unglazed tiles. 

Glazed Tiles
Glazed ceramic and porcelain tiles have a protective surface layer (similar to common pottery items such as cups or plates) that makes them highly resistant to stains and moisture. Therefore, these tiles are particularly to clean and are well suited to bathrooms, kitchens and living areas.

Unglazed Tiles
Unglazed tiles often have a natural, textured surface and may require slightly more attention. While cleaning methods are similar to glazed tiles, unglazed surfaces can be more porous and can benefit from sealing where recommended.

Cleaning Products & What to Avoid
Using the right cleaning products is just as important as cleaning regularly. 

Recommended
- pH-neutral or tile-specific cleaners
- Mild soap diluted in warm water
- Soft cloths, sponges or microfibre mops

Avoid
- Harsh or abrasive cleaning paids
- Undiluted acidic cleaners
- Bleach-based or ammonia-heavy products
- Wax, oil-based or polished cleaners

Overuse of acidic or aggressive cleaners and dull the surface of tiles over time or leave a haze on glazed finishes. Always check the product labels to ensure suitability for ceramic or porcelain tiles and dilute cleaning solutions as recommended.

With consistent maintenance, tiles will maintain their beauty and functionality for decades. Regular light cleaning is far more effective than infrequent deep cleanings and helps preserve both tile surfaces and grout lines. If you're ever unsure about the best care method for your specific tile selection, our team at FINN Tile is happy to provide guidance.