Multi-purpose or “non-specialist” cleaners, in particular, present a number of issues: Although porcelain is chemically resistant, very strong solutions may damage the surface. If the cleaner is hydrochloric-acid based, it could also damage any surrounding aluminium/steel trims and could be corrosive if the odors emitted enter air conditioning ducting – not to mention the potential harm to humans. Some cleaners also contain a wax maintainer; this will build up on the surface, tracking dirt, and the tiles will become more difficult to clean.

Specific cleaning methods can also be an issue. A mop won’t generally dig dirt out of a high/low surface; instead, it will just “snag” on the floor. Even tiles with a slight texture will be covered in undulations, which will collect dirt.

So how can you ensure a good maintenance program from day one? The first step is to clean tiles thoroughly, using a suitable cleaner, straight after installation. Very often, a mop laden with water is swishing over the surface at this stage. This spreads any grout and installation residues over the tiles. This layer of residue then becomes a key to dirt and grime; the floor becomes more difficult to clean and a poor maintenance cycle begins.

To safeguard a tile’s performance throughout its lifecycle, a thorough initial post construction clean and correct ongoing maintenance is crucial. (Attempting to remedy issues by applying treatments onto an existing/dirty surface will not work in the long-term.) If you prefer to use an acid-based cleaner, look out for a “buffered” acid which will give a thorough, fume-free clean, without the erosive issues associated with hydrochloric acid.

Although a sealant isn’t generally recommended or necessary, a protective barrier applied following a thorough initial clean offers a great alternative. For example, Filastop Dirt is an invisible barrier treatment that effectively fills the low spots of a textured or matt porcelain surface. This protects the areas that dirt can get trapped in, without affecting the tile’s coefficient of friction or creating a shiny effect. The product has an independent approval for the pendulum slip test and, once applied, the surface is easier to clean.

Going forward, use a specialist pH-neutral cleaner for daily cleaning and a specialist, alkaline-based deep cleaner, to remove any build-up of organic dirt as necessary. An alkaline cleaner can also be used to renovate tiles that haven’t been maintained properly, effectively turning back the clock so that a correct program can be put into place.

Use of the correct tools is really important too. Commercially, the use of a cleaning machine fitted with orange bristles will complement the cleaning product and will remove any grime that’s lodged in the tile’s low points.