Short answer
Porcelain patios are dense and have very low porosity, so most dirt sits on the surface and can be cleaned with warm water, a pH-neutral cleaner suitable for porcelain and a soft or medium brush, then rinsed off. Pay most attention to the joints, where dirt and green growth collect, and avoid abrasive pads, wire brushes and harsh chemicals unless the manufacturer says they are suitable.
Why porcelain is different
Outdoor porcelain is made from fine clay fired at high temperature, which produces a hard, dense tile. Water and dirt sit on top rather than soaking in, so porcelain is generally easier to clean than natural stone or concrete.
That does not mean it never gets dirty. Fine dirt, algae and footprints build up on textured finishes, and the joints, whether mortar, resin or another jointing compound, are porous and can stain, grow moss or wear away.
Everyday cleaning
- Sweep the patio to remove leaves and grit, which can scuff some finishes underfoot.
- Wet the surface with a hose.
- Mix warm water with a pH-neutral cleaner suitable for porcelain, following the label.
- Scrub with a soft or medium synthetic brush, paying attention to textured areas and joints.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water so no film of cleaner is left behind to attract dirt or leave smears.
- Let it dry and check for streaks in daylight.
Stubborn marks
For heavier dirt, green algae or residue left by building work, a stronger cleaner made for porcelain can be used. Check the tile manufacturer's care guidance first, as some finishes have specific requirements, and test any product on a spare tile or hidden corner.
Rust from metal furniture, fat from the barbecue and marks from fallen leaves may need a cleaner designed for that type of stain. Treat them early: porcelain resists staining, but residues left to bake on can be harder to lift from textured surfaces. Small black spots that will not shift are often lichen in the joints; see our guide to black spots on patios.
Looking after the joints
The joints are usually the weakest point of a porcelain patio. Weeds, moss and dirt collect there, and aggressive cleaning can damage them. Rake out growth carefully with a plastic tool rather than a metal blade that could chip the tile edges, brush along the joints during cleaning, and check for any cracked or missing jointing that needs repair.
Different jointing materials have different care needs, so follow the installer's or the product's guidance where you have it.
Can you pressure wash porcelain?
The porcelain itself tolerates a pressure washer well, but the joints may not. Use a moderate setting with a fan nozzle or rotary surface cleaner, keep the jet moving and avoid aiming it directly into the joints. If the jointing is fragile or you are not sure what it is, rinse with a hose instead.
What to avoid
Avoid wire brushes and abrasive scourers, which can scratch the surface or leave metal marks that rust. Avoid acid cleaners unless the manufacturer approves them for your tiles and joints, as they can damage jointing compounds. Never mix cleaning products. And avoid leaving rusting furniture, metal planters or wet compost bags standing on the patio.
For how porcelain compares with natural stone, see our guide to cleaning Indian sandstone; for slabs in general, see how to clean patio slabs.
When to call a professional
Porcelain is one of the easier surfaces to keep clean yourself, but it is worth calling a professional if the joints are heavily overgrown, if marks have not responded to suitable cleaners, or if you want a thorough clean of a large patio without risking the jointing.
When we clean porcelain patios, the pressure and technique are matched to the tiles and joints, weeds and moss are removed from the joints, and any loose or missing pointing is pointed out so you can decide on repairs.
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Sandstone, porcelain, slabs and decking brought back to life. Family-run by Jason and Lucas Prior, covering south Essex.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best way to clean a porcelain patio?
Sweep, then wash with warm water and a pH-neutral cleaner suitable for porcelain using a soft or medium brush, and rinse thoroughly. Give the joints extra attention.
Can I use a pressure washer on porcelain paving?
The tiles cope well with a moderate setting, but take care with the joints. Keep the jet moving and avoid aiming into them.
Does a porcelain patio need sealing?
Porcelain has very low porosity and does not normally need sealing. Some jointing materials have their own care recommendations, so check the installer's guidance.
Related guides
- How to clean patio slabs: the general method for most patios, when a pressure washer helps and when it does more harm than good.
- How to clean Indian sandstone: gentle cleaning for soft, porous sandstone, the products that can stain it and how to use a pressure washer safely.
- How to remove black spots and lichen from a patio: why black spots survive scrubbing and pressure washing, and how to treat lichen without damaging the stone.