Post-Installation Cleaning: the 5 mistakes that ruin your new ceramic floor

You’ve just finished installing your new ceramic floor and you can’t wait to admire all its beauty. But there is a fundamental step that many people underestimate: post-installation cleaning. It is a delicate procedure, to be carried out carefully and with the correct products, to prevent construction residues, grout or adhesive from compromising the appearance and durability of your ceramic floor.

Even porcelain stoneware, known for its resistance and versatility, is not immune to maintenance mistakes, risking losing its shine or showing stains if the initial cleaning is not carried out correctly.

To help you achieve the best possible result, we reveal the 5 most common mistakes made during the initial cleaning and explain how to avoid them, to enhance the quality of your floor to the fullest.

1. Delaying the initial cleaning too much

After installation, it is essential not to postpone the first cleaning: doing so could compromise the appearance and performance of the porcelain stoneware floor.

It is necessary to wait 3–4 days to allow the grout to cure, then proceed with the initial cleaning to remove installation residues — such as grout, adhesive and dust — which, if not removed in time, can become fixed on the surface and alter its colour, shine and aesthetic appearance.

Main risks:

• Streaks that are difficult to remove.
• Loss of shine.
• Cement residues that integrate into the surface.

Professional tips:

• Do not neglect the joints between the tiles.
• Rinse with hot water.
• Do not rely on “quick” cleaning: take the time necessary to do it well.
  

2. Using acidic/aggressive products that are not suitable

A frequent mistake, but often underestimated, is the use of detergents that are not compatible with porcelain stoneware and that can alter its appearance, such as those based on bleach, ammonia, vinegar or with polishing additives.

Unlike other materials such as marble or wood, porcelain stoneware does not require waxes, polishing oils or protective treatments: its finish is already designed to maintain appearance and performance without extraordinary interventions.

Main risks: 

• Dulling of glossy surfaces.
• Formation of oily films that attract dust and dirt.
• Slippery or greasy surfaces, impractical and potentially hazardous.

Professional tips:

• Use only neutral detergents or products specifically designed for porcelain stoneware, without polishing additives.
• Avoid waxes or “glossy” products: they are useless and counterproductive.
• In the case of stubborn stains (oil, rust, grout), use specific targeted products, such as buffered acids, always following the manufacturer’s instructions.

3. Using unsuitable tools

Even the wrong tools can compromise the integrity of your porcelain stoneware floor. A common mistake is the use of abrasive sponges, metal scouring pads or brooms with hard bristles, especially in the presence of stubborn stains. These tools, instead of cleaning thoroughly, risk scratching the surface, particularly if it is glossy-effect porcelain stoneware.

Main risks:

• Micro scratches visible on glossy or satin porcelain stoneware.
  
• Premature wear of the surface.
• Accumulation of dirt in the micro-abrasions.

Professional tips:

• Use soft, delicate microfiber cloths for daily cleaning.
• For rough or structured surfaces, follow the direction of the texture to avoid dirt buildup.
• In the case of deep cleaning, opt for brushes with nylon bristles: effective but not aggressive.

4. Using too much water

Even though porcelain stoneware is a waterproof material, the excessive use of water during cleaning can cause streaks and marks, particularly on glossy surfaces. Water, especially if not dried properly, can leave detergent residues that compromise the flawless appearance of the floor.

Main risks:

• Formation of streaks on glossy surfaces.
• Stains from standing or limescale water.
• Uneven drying and a “dull” effect.

Professionals tips:

• Use hot water: it helps dissolve dirt without the need for vigorous scrubbing.
• Always rinse well and dry immediately with a soft microfiber cloth.
• Avoid large amounts of water: better frequent passes with moderate quantities.
  
  

5. Ignoring ordinary maintenance

Porcelain stoneware is widely appreciated for its resistance, durability and ease of cleaning. However, precisely because of this reputation it can be misleading, leading many people to overlook the importance of ordinary maintenance, which is essential to preserve over time the elegance and quality of your tiles.

Main risks:

• Loss of performance: reduction of surface grip and increased slipperiness.
• Accelerated wear: dirt acts as an abrasive and can damage the surface finish in the long term.
• Hygiene problems: dirt buildup can encourage the proliferation of bacteria, especially in humid or high-traffic environments.

Professionals tips:

• Carry out daily or weekly cleaning, depending on the level of use of the rooms, using a damp microfiber cloth, preferably with lukewarm water and a neutral detergent specific for porcelain stoneware.
  
  

Have you recognized any of these mistakes? Don’t worry — in an upcoming article we will discover together the best practices to keep the beauty of your porcelain stoneware floor intact.
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