With summer on the horizon, it’s time for homeowners to start thinking about sprucing up their gardens.
And independent tile retailer Porcelain Superstore is showing homeowners how to bring outdoor tiles back into tip top condition.
Abbas Youssefi, Managing Director of Porcelain Superstore, said: “Keeping your porcelain patio tiles looking as good as new is easier than you might think.
“Porcelain is incredibly durable and low-maintenance, making it a fantastic choice for outdoor spaces.”
What You’ll Need:
- A broom or leaf blower
- A bucket of warm water
- Mild detergent or a pH-neutral cleaner
- A soft-bristle brush or mop
- A garden hose or pressure washer (on a low setting)
- White vinegar (optional)
- Microfibre cloths for drying
Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide:
Sweep or Blow Away Debris: Start by removing loose dirt, leaves, and other debris from the surface of the tiles. You can use a broom, or for larger areas, a leaf blower works wonders.
Prepare Your Cleaning Solution: Fill a bucket with warm water and add a few drops of mild detergent or a pH-neutral cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals; porcelain is tough, but there’s no need to use anything too strong.
Scrub the Tiles: Dip your soft-bristle brush or mop into the cleaning solution and gently scrub the tiles. Focus on any areas with stubborn dirt or stains. The soft bristles will lift the grime without scratching the surface.
Rinse Thoroughly: Once you’ve scrubbed the tiles, rinse them off with a garden hose. If you’re using a pressure washer, keep it on a low setting to avoid damaging the grout or tile surface.
Dry the Tiles: Use a microfibre cloth to dry the tiles, especially if you’re concerned about water spots. This step is optional, but it’s a nice touch to ensure a spotless finish.
What is the Best Thing to Clean Porcelain Tiles With?
A mild detergent or a pH-neutral cleaner. These are gentle enough to protect the tile’s surface while still being effective at removing dirt and grime. Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the finish.
What is the Best Natural Cleaner for Porcelain Tiles?
White vinegar is a great natural option for cleaning porcelain tiles. It’s non-toxic, inexpensive, and works well to remove stains and disinfect. Just mix one part vinegar with four parts water for a simple, effective solution. Remember, if your tiles are unglazed, you might want to avoid vinegar, as it can be a bit too harsh on them.
Does White Vinegar Clean Porcelain Patio Tiles?
Yes, white vinegar is an excellent cleaner for porcelain patio tiles. It effectively breaks down dirt and grime and helps to prevent mould and mildew. Just be sure to dilute it with water, as undiluted vinegar can be too strong.
Can You Pressure Wash Outdoor Porcelain Patio Tiles?
Yes, you can pressure wash outdoor porcelain tiles, but keep the setting low. High pressure can damage the grout or cause the tiles to chip. If you’re unsure, it’s always safer to stick with a garden hose.
How to Make Porcelain Tiles Shine Again?
To restore the shine on your porcelain tiles, ensure they are thoroughly clean first. Then, you can use a specialised porcelain tile cleaner or a mix of water and a few drops of dish soap. After cleaning, buff the tiles dry with a microfibre cloth to bring out their natural lustre.
How Often Should You Clean Your Porcelain Patio Tiles?
Ideally, you should give your porcelain patio tiles a quick clean once a month to keep them in tip-top condition. However, during autumn or after bad weather, you might want to clean them more frequently to remove leaves and debris that could cause staining.
Additional Tips:
- Stain Prevention: If your patio is prone to staining (from leaves, for example), consider sealing the grout lines. This will provide extra protection and make cleaning even easier.
- Avoid Harsh Tools: Stick to soft-bristle brushes or mops when cleaning. Hard-bristle brushes or steel wool can scratch the tiles, affecting their appearance over time.
Looking to upgrade your outdoor flooring? Porcelain Superstore’s range of outdoor tiles are available now.