How to remove 8 common stains from porcelain tile

Porcelain tiles are manufactured at a high rate of temperature in order to enable a hard wearing and stain resistant finish.

Unfortunately, accidents can happen. Light fluids can be used in order to remove some stubborn stains from porcelain tile.

We present you a list of the most common types of stains and the process of cleaning them:

1. Coffee: clean this type of stain by dipping a damp cloth in a mixture of water and baking soda. Now scrub the floor over the stain.
2. Fruit Juice/Tea: clean the location of the stain with a solution of 1 tablespoon trisodium phosphate and 1 quart (2 pints) hot water. You next have to rinse with water and eventually wash with a solution of 3 tablespoons laundry bleach in 1 quart of warm water.
3. Grease: you need to use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub the affected area with a strong solution of household detergent. A solution made of trisodium phosphate and very hot water may successfully used as well.
4. Hard Water Scum: A solution of non-precipitating water softener or baking soda in warm water can be used.
5. Mildew: Mix 1 cup laundry bleach with 1 quart (2 pints) water and apply with a sponge. If the mildew remains, use a commercial mildew remover that contains sodium hypochlorite and sodium carbonate. Keep in mind to wear gloves and keep the room well-ventilated.
6. Oil: Mix a thick paste of household scouring powder and water and apply the solution over the stain by allowing it to stand overnight.
7. Paint: a cloth dipped in turpentine or paint thinner is enough to remove fresh oil-based paint. A cloth dampened with warm water and a mild household detergent like dishwashing liquid is perfect for removing fresh water-based paint. Now you have to scrub the area with a soft-bristled brush.
8. Shoe Markings: can be cleaned by mopping the floors with a cloth dipped in neutral floor cleaner diluted at one ounce per gallon of water.

PRECAUTIONS and SAFETY MEASURES:

• We recommend you to test scouring powders on a small area or a sample tile before starting everything.
• Use only the recommended dilution of detergent because higher concentrations of detergent in the cleaning solution might not work or even decolorate your floor.
• You need to allow the detergent solution to stand on the affected area in order to have enough time to act on the soil load. Usually 5-10 minutes is sufficient.
• Scrub with a nylon pad or a bristle brush.
• Rinse thoroughly with clean, clear water to remove the dirty detergent solution and stain.
• Clear the rinse water with a dry mop.
• If the dirty detergent solution is not removed and is allowed to dry on the surface, a coating will form which is very difficult to remove.