At Inspired Surfaces, we believe great design should be beautiful and practical. That’s why we stand behind porcelainas one of the best surface materials available today. Unlike natural stones such as marble, travertine, or limestone—which often require sealing, special products, and constant care—porcelain offers all the beauty with a fraction of the maintenance.
With a few simple steps, your porcelain surfaces will stay elegant, clean, and timeless for years to come. Here’s how.
Why Porcelain? Beauty Without the Burden
Porcelain is a powerhouse material—resistant to stains, scratches, moisture, and chemicals. Its non-porous nature means it doesn’t require sealing, unlike many natural stones. That makes it ideal for busy kitchens, high-traffic floors, stylish bathrooms, and even outdoor installations.
Whether you’re designing a sleek modern kitchen or a luxurious spa-like bathroom, porcelain provides the look of premium stone with far less upkeep.
Cleaning Porcelain: Simple Steps, Stunning Results
Before You Begin: Know Your Surface
Even within porcelain, finishes can vary. Polished porcelain has a gleaming, high-gloss surface ideal for elegant interiors, while matte or textured finishes provide traction and subtle sophistication for flooring, stairs, or outdoor use.
No matter the finish, porcelain resists the common problems natural stone faces—like etching, staining, or water absorption. That means easier cleaning and longer-lasting beauty.
Porcelain Cleaning: What You Should Do
- Dust frequently: Use a soft cloth or dry mop to keep surfaces clean and prevent grit from dulling the finish.
- Use neutral, non-abrasive cleaners: Mild soap, dish detergent, or a porcelain-safe stone cleaner will do the trick—no need for harsh chemicals.
- Rinse and dry: Always rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry with a soft cloth to avoid streaks and soap residue.
- Protect high-use areas: Use rugs and mats in entryways or under furniture, but thanks to porcelain’s strength, you’ll need far less precaution than with softer stones.
Pro Tip: Because porcelain is non-porous, you don’t have to worry about sealing it annually like you would with marble or limestone—saving time, money, and hassle.
Porcelain Cleaning: What to Avoid
- Avoid acidic cleaners: While porcelain is more chemical-resistant than natural stone, cleaners containing lemon, vinegar, or acid should still be avoided—especially if your porcelain mimics stone aesthetics.
- Skip abrasives: No need for harsh powders or scrubbing creams. They can dull the surface over time, especially on polished porcelain.
- Don’t mix chemicals: Never mix bleach with ammonia, and always follow instructions on cleaning product labels.
- Be gentle with vacuums: Avoid attachments with worn plastic or metal parts that might scratch the surface.
Cleaning Specific Porcelain Applications
Countertops & Tables
For kitchen or bathroom countertops, clean with warm water and a few drops of pH-neutral detergent or porcelain-safe stone soap. Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently wipe down the surface.
Unlike marble or granite, porcelain is highly resistant to staining and etching, making it perfect for food-prep areas and high-use tables. No sealing. No stress.
Floors
Dust mop or vacuum regularly to remove dirt and grit. For mopping, use clean water with a neutral detergent (pH 7).
Porcelain’s exceptional durability makes it ideal for high-traffic flooring without the wear and tear common to softer stones. It’s even a great fit for radiant heating systems thanks to its thermal conductivity.
Bathrooms & Wet Areas
Porcelain is a star performer in humid environments. Unlike natural stone, which can absorb moisture and discolor, porcelain is naturally water-resistant.
To remove soap scum, use a gentle non-acidic cleaner or a diluted ammonia solution (½ cup ammonia to 1 gallon of water). Avoid overuse to keep the surface glossy.
Outdoor Use: Pools, Patios & More
Porcelain isn’t just for interiors. Its frost resistance and UV stability make it perfect for outdoor applications too.
For patios, pool decks, or spa areas, rinse regularly with water. To tackle moss or algae, a mild bleach solution can be used, followed by a thorough rinse. No sealing required, no weathering worries—porcelain keeps its beauty in all conditions.
Dealing with Stains: Porcelain’s Low-Maintenance Advantage
Thanks to its non-porous nature, porcelain doesn’t absorb stains like natural stone does. But if something does spill:
- Wipe it up quickly with a soft cloth.
- Avoid rubbing it dry, which can spread residue.
- Clean the area with mild soap and water, rinse, and dry.
- Repeat if necessary—but chances are, porcelain will resist permanent staining.
- If needed, contact a professional for deep cleaning—no need to resurface or reseal.
In Summary: Porcelain Wins on Practicality and Style
At Inspired Surfaces, we know material choice is key to design success. Porcelain offers:
- The elegance of stone without the upkeep
- No sealing, less staining, and more durability
- Versatility across indoor and outdoor spaces
- Easy, affordable maintenance for long-lasting beauty
So whether you’re designing a sleek kitchen, a calming bathroom, or a dynamic retail space, porcelain gives you the power to create stunning surfaces—without compromising on function or maintenance.
Inspired Surfaces is here to help you build smarter, cleaner, and more beautiful spaces—one porcelain slab at a time.