How To Clean Porcelain Paving

Porcelain paving has become increasingly popular over the years, and it's important to know how to clean and maintain it! 

In this article, we tell you how to best clean your porcelain paving tiles, and how to keep them looking good all year round. 

Porcelain paving slabs are becoming increasingly popular due to their low-maintenance and diverse style options.

They are highly water and scratch-resistant, as well as slip-resistant coming in almost any shape, colour or size, giving you the opportunity to create your perfect outdoor escape! A common misconception about porcelain patio tiles is that it is difficult to clean when it's actually the polar opposite!

As porcelain tiles are manufactured from pure clay and minerals, it is extremely durable and easy to care for, unlike natural stone, which absorbs moisture and can often have patches of discolouration.

To help you with cleaning your porcelain paving, we have put together this simple 5-step guide.

Step 1: Clear Your Surface of Furniture and Ornaments

Before cleaning your tiles, it's important to remove all furniture and ornaments from the surface. This will allow you to clean the tiles better. It's also a good idea to clean all the furniture and objects from the area too, as might transfer dirt and grime back onto the porcelain tiles, which is something you want to avoid after all your hard work cleaning!

Step 2: Sweep Away Dirt and Debris

To ensure that your patio is ready for cleaning, it's important to clear away any debris or dirt before applying any liquids, especially if you live in windy climates like the UK!

To get started, make sure that your slabs are dry before taking a soft-bristled brush and sweeping away any debris or leaves that may have landed on the patio. By doing this regularly, you'll find that your patio is much easier to keep clean and tidy, as well as preventing dirt and debris from becoming embedded in the surface of your garden tiles.

Step 3: Clean with a Stiff Brush and Soapy Water

When it comes to cleaning outdoor porcelain slabs, you don’t need to splash out on bleaches or detergents or porcelain paving cleaner. Instead, using dish soap such as fairy liquid, with warm water works just as well as a cleaning solution!

You want to avoid using harsh chemicals on porcelain, as you run the risk of damaging the colour and staining any grout. Make sure your area is thoroughly coated with this mixture of warm water and soap, and start scrubbing away with your brush.

Step 4: Rinse With Plenty Of Clean Water

After you have finished cleaning your porcelain pavers and removed all the dirt, it's essential to rinse the surface thoroughly.

To do this, fill a bucket with warm water and use a clean mop or sponge to rinse the surface of any soap and residue. It's crucial to take this step as soap residue left on the surface of the tiles can lead to discoloured marks, which can be difficult to remove. Additionally, soap residue can create a slippery and hazardous surface, especially when wet.

Step 5: Let It Dry

Once you are happy with your clean porcelain paving tiles, let them fully air dry before putting any furniture or items back on them to avoid damp patches, which you may have to spot treat in the future...

Extra Tile Tips

To keep your porcelain looking perfect all year round, here are a few more easy tips and tricks you can do to care for your paving...

Pressure Wash Seasonally

It's a good idea to pressure wash your porcelain patios every few months as the weather changes. Porcelain is non-porous and highly durable, so jet-washing the surface will not cause any damage to the slabs or grout. However, be sure to use a pressure washer that has a low PSI setting, and don't use a machine with a high PSI setting, as this may be too vigorous for the tiles (and splash you right back!)

Spot Treat Problem Areas

Although porcelain is highly resistant to stains, to keep it looking its best and prevent any tough stains, it's a good idea to clean up spills right away. Whether it is a spilt drink during a family barbeque, or food that has made its way to the ground, immediate spot cleaning is the best solution. To do this, all you need is an outdoor cloth and some warm water and vinegar, roughly a 1-1 dilution. By cleaning the affected areas and stubborn markings promptly, you can ensure that your porcelain outdoor pavers and tiles will maintain their original appearance for many years to come.

In summary, porcelain paving is a great option for your patio, as they are highly customisable, easy to clean, stain resistant, and simple to maintain. If you are looking to purchase some porcelain tiles for your own garden, check out our fantastic range of slabs on our website.