How to Maintain and Clean Different Types of Tiles

Expert Tips, Real Testimonials, and Smart Solutions for Long-Lasting Shine in Indian Homes

Tiles play a central role in defining the aesthetic and functional value of a space—be it the flooring of a living room, the backsplash of a kitchen, or the walls of a bathroom. However, while selecting beautiful tiles is one part of the job, maintaining them properly is what ensures they retain their beauty, durability, and hygiene for years.

From vitrified tiles in urban apartments to ceramic tiles in rural homes, natural stone in luxury villas to porcelain and mosaic options in commercial spaces — the Indian tile market is diverse and dynamic. Each type of tile requires a unique cleaning and maintenance strategy that considers Indian climatic conditions, footfall, and usage patterns.

This blog presents tile-specific cleaning tips, expert advice, real user testimonials, and industry best practices to help you protect your investment and keep your tiles as good as new.

Understanding the Types of Tiles Commonly Used in India

Before diving into cleaning techniques, here’s a quick refresher on the most commonly used tiles in Indian homes and commercial projects:

• Ceramic Tiles—Affordable, commonly used in walls and floors.
  
  
• Vitrified Tiles—Durable, water-resistant, widely used in high-traffic floors.
  
  
• Porcelain Tiles—Denser than ceramic, ideal for outdoor and bathroom areas.
  
  
• Natural Stone Tiles (Marble, Granite, Slate, Kota)—Premium and elegant but need special care.
  
  
• Mosaic Tiles—Small-format tiles used for design features, pools, or bathroom walls.
  
  
• Cement Tiles—Handmade, stylish, and increasingly popular in modern Indian homes.
  
  

How to Clean and Maintain Different Types of Tiles

1. Ceramic Tiles

Maintenance Tips:

• Use a mild detergent or tile cleaner with a soft mop or cloth.
  
  
• Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners, as they may wear down the glaze.
  
  
• Clean grout lines weekly using a toothbrush and a baking soda-water paste.
  
  

Expert Tip:

“Always sweep ceramic floors before mopping. Dust particles can act like sandpaper and slowly dull the glaze.”
— Ramesh Choudhary, Tile Contractor, Jaipur

Testimonial:

“Our kitchen has ceramic tiles for walls and flooring. After using vinegar-based solutions for a while, we noticed fading. Switching to a neutral pH tile cleaner really helped.”
— Meenal Shah, Pune

2. Vitrified Tiles

Maintenance Tips:

• Daily mopping with warm water and a neutral floor cleaner ensures shine.
  
  
• Avoid harsh chemicals; they may damage the polish over time.
  
  
• For tough stains, use diluted dish soap or baking soda paste.
  
  

Expert Tip:

“For high-gloss vitrified tiles, use microfiber mops and avoid hard-bristled brushes. These tiles resist stains but are prone to dullness if cleaned with acidic agents.”
— Sunil Mehta, Interior Consultant, Delhi

Testimonial:

“We installed glossy vitrified tiles in our living area. I noticed footprints and smudges frequently. Using a dry mop once daily, along with a weekly wet clean, solved the problem.”
— Arjun B., Bengaluru

3. Porcelain Tiles

Maintenance Tips:

• Mop regularly using warm water and mild cleaners.
  
  
• Steam mops work well for deep cleaning without damaging the surface.
  
  
• Use a soft nylon brush for grout and textured tiles.
  
  

Expert Tip:

“Porcelain tiles are denser and ideal for Indian kitchens and bathrooms. Don’t let oil stains settle — clean spills immediately to avoid grout discoloration.”
— Geeta Nair, Facility Manager, Mumbai

Testimonial:

“We have anti-skid porcelain tiles in the bathroom. They looked dull after a few months. A mix of warm water, vinegar, and baking soda helped restore their freshness.”
— Fathima M., Kochi

4. Natural Stone Tiles (Marble, Granite, Kota, etc.)

Maintenance Tips:

• Use only stone-safe, pH-neutral cleaners.
  
  
• Avoid vinegar, bleach, or ammonia-based products — they can etch or discolor stone.
  
  
• Reseal natural stone floors every 6–12 months, depending on usage.
  
  

Expert Tip:

“Polished stone tiles are porous. In Indian kitchens, where turmeric and oils are used frequently, sealing is a must. Also, use coasters or mats in dining areas.”
— Mahesh Vyas, Architect, Ahmedabad

Testimonial:

“After using regular floor cleaner on our marble flooring, we noticed yellowish patches. We now use a pH-neutral cleaner and reseal every year.”
— Neha and Rajeev, Noida

5. Mosaic Tiles

Maintenance Tips:

• Use a non-abrasive cleaner for the surface.
  
  
• Clean grout regularly, as it traps dirt easily.
  
  
• For artistic or glass mosaics, avoid high-pressure washing.
  
  

Expert Tip:

“Never use a scrub pad on mosaic tiles. A soft cloth and diluted detergent do the job well without scratching the surface.”
— Shivani Patel, Tile Designer, Surat

Testimonial:

“Our bathroom’s mosaic wall looks amazing, but we had soap scum issues. Weekly vinegar spray (light concentration) followed by a warm water rinse keeps it shining.”
— Ritika S., Chandigarh

6. Cement Tiles

Maintenance Tips:

• Clean with mild soap and water; avoid acid-based or ammonia cleaners.
  
  
• Reapply a penetrating sealer every 6–12 months.
  
  
• Use rugs in high-traffic areas to avoid fading or chipping.
  
  

Expert Tip:

“Cement tiles are artisanal and can fade in sunlight. Use UV-resistant sealers if tiles are exposed to direct light.”
— Ravindra Singh, Tile Manufacturer, Rajasthan

Testimonial:

“We used cement tiles in our dining space. They are beautiful but require regular sealing. We now have a local vendor who helps maintain them bi-annually.”
— Devika P., Lucknow

General Cleaning Tips for All Tile Types

• Always sweep or vacuum before mopping to avoid scratching.
  
  
• Use doormats at entrances to reduce dirt tracking.
  
  
• Clean spills immediately, especially on natural stones.
  
  
• Don’t use the same mop for bathroom and living areas — cross-contamination is real!
  
  
• Avoid soap-based cleaners that leave residue and attract dirt.
  
  

Products Recommended by Experts

Final Words: Let Your Tiles Shine for Years

Tiles are a long-term investment, and with the right cleaning techniques and care routine, you can maintain their look, feel, and function for decades. Whether you’ve chosen tiles for affordability, aesthetics, or durability, a little maintenance goes a long way in preserving their charm.

Remember, each tile type is different — and so are the maintenance needs. The more you tailor your cleaning approach, the better your tiles will reward you with longevity and appeal.

✅ Need Help with Tile Maintenance Products or Expert Advice?

Visit Easy Build today — your one-stop platform for all tile cleaners, sealers, mops, and expert solutions. Whether you’re a homeowner, contractor, or builder, our team helps you choose the right products based on your tile type and usage.

📞 Talk to Our Experts | 🛒 Order Online | 🏢 Visit Our Experience Centre in Meerut

Because clean tiles don’t just reflect light — they reflect care, quality, and pride. Choose Easy Build, and shine smarter.

Blog Authored by Nimish Kumar Agarwal on behalf of Easy Build