There are three different materials that we’ll consider: glazed tile, unglazed tile, and natural stone.
First, some general principles.
Always follow your tile manufacturer’s care and maintenance guidelines.
Use doormats to minimize tracking abrasive dirt and grit into your house.
The best routine cleaning for tile and natural stone is sweeping, dusting, and wet mopping with water.
Vacuuming is also appropriate but remove or turn off the rotating brush to prevent damage.
Never mix cleaners, as this can produce deadly toxic fumes.
Strong acids or bases such as muriatic acid, ammonia, and bleach can damage or discolor tiles, stone, and grout. Always refer to the manufacturer’s cleaning recommendations before using a cleaning product.
Don’t use oil-based cleaners on tile or natural stone.
Steel wool, scouring pads containing metal, and wire brushes can damage tile and natural stone.
Glazed Tile
Whether porcelain or ceramic, glazed tiles are non-porous and very hard, meaning they don’t absorb whatever is spilled on them and they can withstand a good scrubbing.
Use: a neutral cleaner and water for everyday cleaning, or a heavy-duty neutral cleaner for heavy-duty cleaning. Aggressive scrubbing or scouring pads–not metal pads or brushes–can also be used for heavy soiling.
Don’t use: metal brushes or scrub pads or oil-based cleaners.
Unglazed Tile
Over time unglazed tile will develop a patina as it interacts with its environment. This is both expected, natural, and desirable, as it adds to the beauty of your tile and makes its maintenance easier.
Use: a neutral cleaner and water for everyday cleaning, or a heavy-duty neutral cleaner for heavy duty cleaning. Aggressive scrubbing or scouring pads–not metal pads or brushes–can also be used for heavy soiling.
Don’t use: metal brushes or scrub pads or oil-based cleaners.
Natural Stone
Limestone, marble, travertine, slate, and granite are common examples. Natural stone requires special care that sets it apart from ceramic and porcelain tiles. Because it’s porous, natural stone must be sealed and periodically resealed to minimize staining and water penetration.
Use: a dry duster or dust mop for everyday cleaning, and mop with a natural stone soap specific to your type of stone for more thorough cleaning.
Don’t use: Acidic cleaners (including vinegar or lemon juice), ammonia, or bleach, or metal brushes or scrub pads or oil-based cleaners.