How to remove stains from indoor porcelain tiles?

Author: Kale Hartmann  |  Last update: Friday, January 16, 2026

There are a few ways to restore your porcelain tile after you've come across a stain. You can try tackling the spot with some hydrogen peroxide or by using a steam cleaner. For more difficult stains, consider trying diluted muriatic acid, an industrial-strength solution professionals have been using for decades.

How do you remove tough stains from porcelain tiles?

You can use a commercial product safe for glazed porcelain tiles or use white vinegar. Use a warm-water wash with vinegar at half strength to remove the stain completely. Mop the area and allow it to sit for ten minutes, and then rinse with a clean warm water bath.

What is the best stain remover for porcelain?

Things like bleach, chemical cleaners and abrasive solutions can all start to erode a porcelain finish, so tackle stains with just dishwashing liquid first, then move on to a paste of baking soda and water if needed, according to experts at MaidPro.

What should you not use on porcelain tiles?

Porcelain tiles tend to be harder, more resilient and more stain-resistant than ceramic tiles. They are one of the easiest types of tile to maintain but their surface can eventually be eroded by the regular use of corrosive chemicals such as ammonia, bleach or acids that can also damage the grout and loosen the tiles.

Can porcelain be permanently stained?

Preventing Stains and Scratches

While porcelain is resistant to scratches, etching and stains, these surfaces are not damage proof. Take care to avoid exposing porcelain to permanent inks or dyes, as these might not be removable.

How to Remove Stains from Tiles in Bathroom 🧽

Is magic eraser safe for porcelain tile?

Many homeowners ask if Magic Erasers® can be used on porcelain or if they will damage ceramic tile. The good news is that they can be safely used on ceramic tiles and porcelain, so you have nothing to worry about if you plan on using them this way.

Does vinegar ruin porcelain?

Some household members will use vinegar to clean porcelain tiles. However, experts suggest this is not a good idea because vinegar has a high acidic content which can damage the quality of the porcelain.

Can I use Dawn on porcelain tile?

This homemade grout cleaner with Blue Dawn is the best and safest for your hard surfaces! Especially ceramic and porcelain tile and grout!

Can I use pine sol on porcelain tile?

Then, follow these steps to get ceramic and glazed porcelain tiles and grout thoroughly clean: Step 1 Add ⅛ cup of Pine-Sol® Multi-Surface Cleaner to a bucket containing a gallon of water. Step 2 Wet a cloth or chamois mop in the mixture. Step 3 Wipe down the tile floors thoroughly.

Is Swiffer safe for porcelain tiles?

Swiffer wet cloths are designed to be used on most floor surfaces, such as: vinyl. porcelain tiles. ceramic tiles.

How do you get brown stains out of porcelain?

Prepare a mixture of baking soda( 1 tablespoon) and water(30 ml). Rinse your plate in warm water and use a sponge to apply the thick paste on the stains. Rub the mixture smoothly in circular motion until the stain/residue disappears.

Why is my porcelain tile staining?

Unpolished or Unglazed Tile

Unglazed porcelain tiles are more prone to staining than glazed ones, so you should expect to clean them more often to avoid discolorations. Vacuuming and sweeping will help remove loose dirt and debris between tiles and grout lines.

How to remove urine stains from porcelain tiles?

Flooring Surfaces
  1. Cover with an absorbent pad soaked in rubbing alcohol.
  2. Let it remain in place for 5 minutes, then wipe the area with a cloth dampened with ammonia. (Do not use ammonia on linoleum or vinyl floor tile.)
  3. Rinse well with water and wipe dry with a soft cloth.

What is the best porcelain stain remover?

Discover the best methods and cleaners for a spotless shine, as well as tips for keeping your sink looking new.
  • What's the Best Way to Clean a Porcelain Sink? ...
  • Method 1: Vinegar and Baking Soda. ...
  • Method 2: Natural All-Purpose Cleaner. ...
  • Method 3: Hydrogen Peroxide. ...
  • Method 4: Wet Pumice Stone. ...
  • Method 5: Lemon Juice.

How to get water spots off porcelain tile?

Try mixing white wine vinegar with either water or baking soda. The acid within the vinegar helps to break down the mineral deposits that build up within hard water stains and limescale, whilst the baking soda helps to dissolve these stains to leave tiles sparkling clean.

How to remove grease stains from porcelain tiles?

It is always best to deep clean porcelain or ceramic floors once or twice a year, especially in the kitchen, where oily and fatty stains are common, and outdoors floors, which are more easily stained. To clean oily and fatty stains off a porcelain floor, we recommend PS87 PRO degreasing detergent.

What should you avoid with porcelain tiles?

Although porcelain tiles offer exceptional durability, there are few products and techniques you should avoid at all costs. Never use a product that contains harmful chemicals such as ammonia or bleach (or any type of acid-based cleanser). These type of chemicals can alter the colour of the tiles and/or the grout.

What is the best cleaner for porcelain tile?

For the best clean, you can use either a specialized tile cleaner or a mixture of water and white vinegar. Generously spray the solution on walls, floor and fixtures, focusing on areas with soap scum, mildew or hard water stains. For tougher grime, make a paste of baking soda and water.

Can you use baking soda on porcelain tile?

White vinegar mixed with water can be used to clean porcelain tiles, as can a mixture of baking soda and water. Both of these natural cleaners are safe and effective on porcelain tiles and won't cause any damage or discolouration.

Can you use hydrogen peroxide on porcelain tile?

Baking soda and water can be used to remove grease and dirt stains. For blood stains, use hydrogen peroxide or a diluted bleach solution.

What is the best liquid to clean porcelain tiles?

  • Porcelain Patio Spring Clean - Mould, Algae & Leaf Stain Remover (5 Litre) ...
  • LTP Porcelain Floor Tile Cleaner (1L) ...
  • GLEAN Porcelain Floor & Tile Cleaner | PH Neutral | Easy Care No Rinse Cleaner For Porcelain & Ceramic Surfaces | Polished & Unpolished Surfaces | Interior & Exterior Uses | 500ml.

Can Soft Scrub be used on porcelain?

Use Soft Scrub regularly to keep porcelain sinks free of soap scum, dirt, and stains.

How do you remove stubborn stains from porcelain tiles?

For stubborn stains use a non-abrasive cleaning product, sugar soap or normal house cleaning products. Do not use cleaners that have strong alkaline pH levels and thoroughly rinse the surface with clean water to remove residue.

Can stains be removed from porcelain?

For white porcelain only, bleach can be used to remove stains; never use chlorine bleach in colored or vintage porcelain, as it can damage the finish. For both white and colored porcelain, liquid oxygen bleach (such as hydrogen peroxide) is a good alternative.

Can you use Windex on porcelain tile?

Windex can also be used to clean tiles and grout, without causing any damage.

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