Ceramics is one of the purest forms of art and functionality, as Picasso said, with his hands in the clay. As versatile as it is fascinating, ceramic finds ample space in everyone's daily life, from floor tiles to tea cups, to elegant kitchen jugs. But how to keep ceramic always shiny, clean, and stain-free? In this article, we will explore how to clean ceramic in a simple, effective, and targeted way, depending on whether it’s flooring, dishware, or decorative items.
How to clean ceramic tile floors and surfaces
Cleaning ceramic tile floors is not difficult, but they require regular maintenance to remain beautiful and shiny. The first step in cleaning ceramic tile floors is to remove dust and debris: to avoid scratching the surface, it's ideal to use a soft-bristled broom or a vacuum cleaner with a gentle attachment. Once the dirt is removed, it’s time to proceed with the actual cleaning.
To clean your ceramic floor tiles, you can prepare a solution of hot water and mild detergent, avoiding harsh chemicals that could damage the surfaces. A soft cloth or a microfiber mop is perfect for removing dirt without leaving streaks. If the floor is particularly dirty or stained, you can add a small amount of white vinegar to the water for a natural disinfecting and degreasing action.
How to clean glazed ceramic
The issue of how to clean ceramic with a glossy finish is more delicate, because although it is very durable, the glaze can be scratched irreparably if abrasive products are used. To maintain its shine, you can use a mild neutral cleaner and a soft cloth: it’s also essential to dry the surface immediately with a dry cloth to prevent streaks from forming.
For tougher stains, such as those from coffee or oil, diluted white vinegar in hot water can be a great solution. Some suggest that ceramic can be cleaned with bleach in the case of stubborn stains, but it’s always best to avoid it as it can damage the glaze and alter the surface's shine.
Glazed ceramic is often used for high-quality items, such as kitchen tiles or tableware. However, acids found in beverages like coffee or lemon juice can damage the glaze if not treated properly, which is why quick cleaning is crucial.
How to clean ceramic cups thoroughly
Ceramic cups, especially tea cups, are among the items that tend to get dirty most easily, and sometimes marks appear that can seem difficult to remove. But how to clean ceramic cups so they stay as good as new? The absolute best advice, of course, is hand washing, avoiding boiling water.
So, why do marks appear on a washed tea cup? This happens when tea or coffee residues are not completely removed, leaving streaks on the inside walls. To prevent this problem from becoming permanent, it’s important to rinse the cup immediately after use, using a non-abrasive sponge. If the marks are already present, you can remove them with a mix of baking soda and water, which will gently act on the stains without damaging the ceramic.
Some people use powdered milk or baking soda to remove tea residues from ceramic cups, a handy home remedy to prevent the ceramic from absorbing unpleasant odors.
How to clean a ceramic jug or vase
Ceramic vases and jugs are both beautiful and functional objects, but they often accumulate liquid residues that can leave streaks or difficult stains. The advice on how to clean ceramic jugs is similar to that for cleaning cups: hot water and mild detergents. However, if the jug has accumulated limescale or more stubborn stains, a mix of white vinegar and hot water can be effective.
Avoid soaking the jug in water that is too hot or using abrasive sponges, as they could damage the material. If the jug is richly decorated, be careful not to damage the painted patterns: dry it with a soft cloth to maintain the shine of the ceramic and prevent streaks from forming.
Ceramic jugs are often used to serve water or wine, but in some cultures, such as Japanese, ceramics - or porcelain - are also used to store tea. Its porosity helps to maintain the ideal temperature for tea, preserving its flavor.
Conclusion
How to clean ceramic depends on the type of object and its finish, but by following a few simple tips, you can keep your ceramic floors, cups, and jugs looking perfect. Always choose mild cleaners, avoid using abrasive sponges, and when necessary, use natural solutions like vinegar or baking soda to remove the toughest stains. With the right care, ceramic can last a long time, maintaining its charm and functionality.
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