Whether or not to wax ceramic tile floors is a common question for homeowners. Ceramic tile can look great when properly cleaned and maintained. However, there is some debate as to whether waxing ceramic tiles is recommended or not. This article will examine the pros and cons of waxing ceramic tile floors to help you decide if it is right for your home.
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What is ceramic tile?
Ceramic tile is a type of hard surface flooring made from natural clay materials that are fired at high temperatures in a kiln. The firing process hardens the clay into a dense, durable tile. Glazes or decorative coatings can be applied to the surface of the clay before firing to create different colors, textures, and designs.
There are two main types of ceramic tile:
- Porcelain – Made from refined clay, making it dense and water-resistant. Porcelain tiles are harder and more durable than regular ceramic.
- Ceramic – Made from natural clay. Ceramic tiles have slight variations in shade and texture.
Ceramic and porcelain tiles are very hard, non-porous surfaces. When properly sealed, they resist stains, are easy to clean, and hold up well to heavy foot traffic. Ceramic tile floors can last for decades with proper care and maintenance.
Should you wax ceramic tiles?
Waxing ceramic tile floors used to be a more common practice, but it has fallen out of favor in recent years. Here are some key considerations on whether or not to wax ceramic tiles:
Pros of waxing ceramic tile
- Enhances shine – Waxing can increase the natural shine and luster of ceramic tile floors.
- Easier cleaning – Wax forms a protective layer that repels dirt, dust, water, and other common household messes. Daily cleaning is easier.
- Protects finish – Wax coats the surface, which can protect the factory-applied glaze or finish from wearing down over time.
Cons of waxing ceramic tile
- Maintenance – Wax builds up over time and needs to be regularly stripped and reapplied. This periodic stripping and waxing is labor intensive.
- Cost – Tile wax and the supplies needed to apply it can be more expensive compared to regular floor cleaners.
- Reduced traction – Wax can create a slippery surface, especially when wet. This can increase the risk of falls and make the floors hazardous.
- Difficult to apply evenly – Getting an even, streak-free wax application takes skill and practice. Missed areas or uneven buildup are visually unappealing.
- Attracts more dirt – While wax makes daily cleaning easier at first, the protective coating tends to collect more dirt over time compared to unwaxed tile.
Based on these drawbacks, most flooring professionals today advise against waxing ceramic tile floors. The benefits are usually short-lived while the cons add up over time. Modern ceramic and porcelain tiles with quality factory finishes do not require waxing to maintain their appearance.
How to clean ceramic tile instead of waxing
For routine cleaning, sweeping or vacuuming ceramic tile to remove surface dirt is recommended. Mixing aPH:neutral:friendly cleaner (like dish soap or vinegar) with water and mopping regularly prevents dirt buildup. Be sure to use a clean mop head.
For deeper cleaning, you may need to use a dedicated tile and grout cleaner. Look for cleaners that contain enzymes or bacteria to break down grime lodged in the tile surface and grout lines. Using a stiff nylon brush can help agitate set-in dirt. Rinse the floor thoroughly after cleaning.
Other tips for keeping ceramic tile floors looking their best include:
- Use floor mats at entrances to trap dirt and moisture.
- Immediately wipe up spills and messes.
- Sweep or vacuum daily.
- Clean grout lines occasionally with a specialized grout brush.
- Consider re-sealing grout every 1-2 years.
With proper ongoing maintenance, waxing is not required to keep ceramic and porcelain floors clean, shiny, and looking like new.
Should you use acrylic floor finishes?
In lieu of wax, some homeowners opt to use acrylic floor finishes and sealers on ceramic tile. These provide shine and protection without the need for stripping and reapplying. However, there are also disadvantages:
- Acrylics can yellow or cloud over time, dulling the finish.
- Chips and scratches in the coating are highly visible.
- Reapplication is still required every 1-3 years.
- Harsh chemical strippers are needed to remove acrylic buildup.
Most professionals warn against acrylic coatings for ceramic and porcelain floors. High-quality tiles with proper ongoing maintenance do not require sealants or acrylic finishes.
Special cases where waxing may be appropriate
While waxing is generally not advisable for ceramic tile floors, there are some special use cases where it can be beneficial:
Antique or porous ceramic tiles
Older antique tiles or handmade artisan tiles have natural porosity and roughness. The pores in the clay can collect dirt buildup more easily. Wax can provide an added layer of protection for these types of tiles.
High traffic commercial areas
Retail stores, restaurants, and other commercial spaces may opt to wax their ceramic tile floors for ease of maintenance. The reduced traction is less of a factor in public spaces, and commercial cleaners are equipped to regularly strip and reapply wax.
Showers and bathtub surrounds
Wax makes ceramic tile surfaces more water-repellent. This can help prevent water spots and mineral deposits from building up. Waxing tile walls in showers or around bathtubs makes cleaning soap scum easier.
In summary, waxing ceramic tile should be limited to specific use cases. For most flooring applications, keeping tiles clean with regular sweeping, mopping, and deep cleaning is the best practice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use floor wax on ceramic tile?
Yes, you can apply floor wax to ceramic tiles. However, waxing is no longer a recommended practice for most tile floors. The wax can discolor, trap dirt, become slippery, and require frequent stripping and reapplication.
What is the best ceramic tile floor cleaner?
For routine cleaning, diluted dish soap or vinegar and water works well. For deeper cleaning, use an enzyme-based ceramic tile cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals, which can damage the protective glaze. Always rinse floors thoroughly after cleaning.
How do you make dull ceramic tile shine?
If your tiles have lost their original shine, try deep cleaning with a ceramic tile cleaner or baking soda paste. For extremely dull tiles, you may need to use an restore product made specifically for removing built-up grime from tile floors. Avoid wax, which can cause more problems than it solves.
Can you use Murphy’s Oil Soap on ceramic tile?
Murphy’s Oil Soap is formulated for sealed wood floors, not ceramic tile. It can leave a cloudy residue and wax buildup on tile over time. Instead, opt for a mild dish soap and water mix or vinegar solution.
How often should you mop ceramic tile floors?
Ceramic tile floors should be swept daily and mopped at least once per week. Areas with high traffic may need mopping 2-3 times per week. Make sure to use a clean mop head each time to prevent spreading around dirt and grime.
Conclusion
Waxing ceramic and porcelain tile floors used to be standard practice, but it is no longer recommended in most cases. The advancing quality of today’s ceramic tiles coupled with better understanding of floor care has made waxing largely obsolete.
For most homeowners, keeping ceramic tile clean with regular sweeping and mopping using mild, pH-neutral cleaners is the best and easiest maintenance routine. Waxing can lead to more work without providing significant added benefits. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the protective tile glaze.
With simple, consistent care, high-quality ceramic tile floors can maintain their elegant, shiny appearance for decades without wax. Focus on preventative cleaning rather than relying on temporary coatings and finishes.