How to clean matte porcelain stoneware

Matte porcelain stoneware is appreciated for its textured effect, durability, and ease of maintenance. To preserve its beauty over time, it is essential to know how to clean it correctly, avoid streaks, and choose the right products (including natural ones) according to the finish and context of use.

Here is a complete guide with practical tips, recommendations on products for cleaning matte porcelain stoneware, and clarifications on the use of vinegar, so you can maintain the extra matt look and the natural feel of surfaces that resemble stone, cement, wood, or resin.

What is matte porcelain stoneware and where it is used

Matte porcelain stoneware is a technical ceramic made of clays and minerals sintered at high temperatures. The lack of polishing creates an anti-reflective surface with a textured feel, ideal for modern interiors and high-traffic areas.

It is used indoors in kitchens, bathrooms, living rooms, hallways, and commercial spaces; outdoors on terraces, porches, and walkways with non-slip versions. The textures may be smoother or rougher with a stone/cement effect, and this difference impacts the methods for daily cleaning.

Important note after installation (post-construction cleaning): after installation, a post-construction wash with specific buffered acid-based detergents is required, followed by thorough rinsing. Removing grout and site residues prevents the surface from appearing permanently dirty or forming streaks with every subsequent wash.

How to remove streaks from matte porcelain stoneware easily

Streaks often result from using too much detergent, dirty water in the bucket, or insufficient rinsing. A basic routine is essential: hot water, a minimal dose of neutral detergent, a well-wrung microfiber cloth, and thorough rinsing.

The main cleaning difference between smooth and rough textures is that smooth surfaces require only microfiber and neutral detergent, while on rougher ones (especially outdoors) you should work in small sections and use medium-soft bristle brushes to reach micro-textures, always remembering to dry the floor to avoid new streaks.

How to clean matte porcelain stoneware with natural products

Prefer a “green” approach? Here are effective and gentle solutions for matte porcelain stoneware:

🌿 Baking soda (1 tablespoon in 1 liter of hot water) for light dirt and foot-traffic dullness.
🧼 Liquid Marseille soap, well diluted, for frequent and gentle cleaning.
🍋 Lemon diluted for a sanitizing and deodorizing effect, always followed by rinsing.

Use clean microfiber cloths, change the water often, and avoid excess: even natural products, if too concentrated, can leave residues and streaks.

Is vinegar really useful for cleaning porcelain stoneware?

Vinegar for cleaning porcelain stoneware can help against limescale and mineral haze, but it must be used with care and only occasionally. Dilute it well (e.g., 1:10 in water), avoid prolonged contact on cement-based grout, and rinse thoroughly. For frequent cleaning, it’s better to use a neutral detergent specifically for stoneware.

We recommend avoiding vinegar on newly installed surfaces (before professional acid washing), on sensitive grout, or on special finishes labeled as delicate by the manufacturer. In case of doubt, always test in a hidden spot first.

Practical tips to keep porcelain stoneware perfect

A proper routine prevents 90% of problems. Here are some essential steps:

🧹 Dust first: remove dust/sand with a soft broom or vacuum cleaner to avoid “grinding” dirt.
💧 Less detergent, more clean water: refresh the bucket often; residue is the main cause of streaks.
🧽 Use the right tools: microfiber for interiors; for non-slip exteriors, medium-bristle brushes and generous rinsing.
🪑 Protect the surface: felt pads under chairs, watch out for abrasive soles; wipe up oil or wine drops immediately.
🧴 Professional products: for stubborn stains or rough outdoor areas, consider neutral detergents for stoneware and occasional deep cleaning.

In outdoor areas, dirt is mainly caused by dust, limescale, or soil residues, so it is advisable to perform less frequent but more intense washes. Indoors, on the other hand, it is better to choose light and frequent cleaning to preserve the original aesthetic and texture of matte porcelain stoneware.

For those selecting new tiles, it’s helpful to know that today there are advanced finishes that combine non-slip properties with easy maintenance. These solutions make it easier to simplify daily care of matte porcelain stoneware, while maintaining its matte and natural appearance.

Porcelain stoneware floors always flawless with Progetto Sedia

By following these tips on how to clean matte porcelain stoneware—from the first post-installation cleaning to daily maintenance with natural products or neutral detergents—the surface will remain even, streak-free, and faithful to its textured character.

Combine your stoneware with Made in Italy furniture and accessories to enhance its colors and textures: with Progetto Sedia, you’ll find design solutions for kitchens, living rooms, and outdoor spaces. Request a personalized quote to complete your project with style and functionality.