Why is my porcelain tile staining?

Author: Reynold Gerlach  |  Last update: Wednesday, September 13, 2023

These bubbles once grinded or popped by the diamond pads because small crevasses or cups in the surface of the tile. When a polished porcelain tile appears to be stained, it is more often the result of these crevasses filling up with liquid or grime rather than the tile being stained.

How do you remove stains from porcelain tiles?

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.

Does porcelain tile stain easily?

Porcelain tile is very durable. Unglazed porcelain tile is normally durable, but even thought technically it is impervious, it can stain. During the manufacturing process there are out-gassing that creates microscopic pores that sometimes can trap in stains.

How do you prevent porcelain stains?

Regular cleaning (once or twice weekly) is the best way of preventing a build-up of dirt and unsightly stains. This can be accomplished with a simple sweep and vacuum to remove debris, followed by mopping sparingly with warm water.

How does porcelain get stained?

While porcelain is a highly durable material for dental restorations, it's not entirely indestructible. Many porcelain crowns become stained when the protective glaze that helps the restoration retain its color gets damaged or if the margin of the porcelain becomes exposed in the mouth.

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What causes brown stains on porcelain?

The brown stain is from a large amount of iron in your water.

What is the best cleaner for porcelain stains?

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.

What should you not use on porcelain tiles?

Do not use cleaning products that contain acids or ammonia (and other harsh chemicals) as these can damage grout and glazed surfaces of the tile. Choose products that are compatible with your grout to avoid damage or discoloration of the grout. Always dry your porcelain thoroughly after cleaning.

Can stains be removed from porcelain?

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Rub a thin layer of naval jelly over the sink and watch it dissolve the stain. As soon as the stain disappears, rinse it all off to avoid damaging the porcelain. Another reliable solution for most porcelain stains is Bar Keeper's Friend, a gentle yet strong multi-purpose cleaner.

Can porcelain be permanently stained?

Porcelain is a highly durable material for dental restorations, but it is not entirely indestructible. Stains will not penetrate the surface of quality porcelain restorations unless the porcelain has been damaged by: Highly abrasive toothpastes that wear away the outer glaze of the porcelain.

Why do my porcelain tiles always look dirty?

When it comes to mopping tiles, they can collect a lot of dust and dirt. If we don't brush this away before mopping, it can build up and cause the tiles to look unclean. Even when not mopping, we recommend doing this anyway as part of a regular maintenance cleaning process.

What is the lifespan of porcelain tile?

Porcelain tile has a 60+ year life expectancy, so you definitely get your money's worth. It's perfect for walls, floors and indoor/outdoor installations. Rated for high-traffic areas, you won't have to worry about your porcelain floor degrading over time.

Can you use vinegar on porcelain tile?

But not all cleaning agents are effective and help you get sparkling clean tile floors. So, what to use while cleaning tile floors? Vinegar is one of the best multi-purpose cleaners available at every house. It is safe to use on laminate, vinyl, porcelain, and ceramic tiles.

Can you use magic eraser on 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.

Can I use Dawn soap on porcelain tile?

Especially ceramic and porcelain tile and grout! Blue dawn does not discolor grout joints and further is a great degreasing agent from everyday traffic. Use daily to weekly. The more traffic, the more cleaning.

Does vinegar stain porcelain?

Whilst the right solution is a completely safe, natural, and vegan-friendly cleaner for your floors, you do have to be careful with how you use it. This is because too much exposure to strong vinegar could strip away the finish on your porcelain.

How do you clean heavily stained porcelain?

Put a cup of hydrogen peroxide in a spray bottle. Spray evenly over the porcelain. Let the hydrogen peroxide sit for 15 minutes to an hour. Rinse and buff with a microfiber cloth for a clean, bright shine.

Will oxiclean remove stains on porcelain?

The bathroom sink, especially a porcelain one, can tend to get quite nasty over time. You see a lot of discoloration around the drain and the overflow hole. Just apply the concentrate solution to both areas, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub it with a cleaning toothbrush.

Does water stain porcelain?

When the hard, mineral rich water evaporates, a residue is left behind which results in a hard water stain that can show up on glass, porcelain, tile, and even metal surfaces. There are several different ways to eliminate hard water stains without the use of harmful chemicals.

Do all porcelain tiles need sealing?

It is not necessary to seal any glazed tiles or good quality un-polished porcelain tiles; however, once again we recommend the use of a grout protector if you want to protect the grout to keep it looking its best and to make ongoing maintenance easier.

What are the white stains on porcelain tiles?

Efflorescence is the white residue that is commonly seen on tiles. It is caused by water penetration, specifically when the minerals in water crystallize on the tile's surface. It's an indication of failed/cracked grout joints or possible leaks in your ceiling, walls or floors.

Can water damage porcelain tiles?

You may have guessed where this is going: porcelain tiles are not waterproof, they are water resistant. That means that if you submerge them in water long enough, then they will eventually allow that water to seep through.

Can vinegar dissolve porcelain?

White vinegar costs less than the common store-bought cleaners, but can still effectively disinfect any surface without leaving a chemical residue. Cleaning floor tiles with vinegar is safe, as long they are porcelain or ceramic.

Can you use bleach on porcelain tile?

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.

Does white porcelain stain?

Porcelain is also non-porous, making for an antimicrobial, food-safe surface that is extremely unlikely to suffer staining from food, cleaning solvents, and so on. However, it is harder than quartz and also resistant to high temperatures.

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