7 Ways to Restore and Remove Scratches from Ceramic and Porcelain Tiles

by Robins Design Gallery January 8, 2025

Tiles are one of the most important elements in interior design for their function and visual appeal. With a variety of styles, sizes, and designs, they can elevate any room.

However, despite their durability, scratches and other damages can still happen, especially with wear and tear over time. These scratches, no matter how big or small, can be unsightly and frustrating to remove. Good thing, you can easily address these imperfections with simple materials you can easily find at home.

Overview

Before we delve into the tips on how to remove scratches on tiles, let us first discuss ceramic and porcelain tiles and their differences.

What Are Ceramic Tiles? – Ceramic tiles are made from natural clay that is fired in a kiln to harden, making them durable and water-resistant. With their versatility and wide range of styles, colors, and finishes, ceramic tiles are a popular choice for residential and commercial spaces.
What Are Porcelain Tiles? – Porcelain tiles are a type of ceramic tile made from a higher grade of clay and fired at higher temperatures. This process makes them denser, harder, and more durable than standard ceramic tiles. They are also known to be water—and stain-resistant, making them easier to clean and maintain. Porcelain tiles also come in a variety of styles, colors, and finishes, making them ideal for various spaces.
Porcelain Tile vs Ceramic Tile – While both porcelain and ceramic tiles offer durability and a wide array of design options, the best choice ultimately depends on your specific needs, budget, and aesthetic preferences.

Porcelain tiles are particularly well-suited for high-traffic areas and outdoor spaces due to their superior durability. Their high water resistance also makes them ideal for wet environments like bathrooms and kitchens.

Ceramic tiles, while still durable, are often more suitable for indoor spaces with moderate traffic. They are generally more affordable than porcelain tiles, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious homeowners.

7 Items to Remove Scratches From Ceramic and Porcelain Tiles

Dealing with scratches on your valuable tiles can be annoying. Before you decide to replace them, you can try several ways to minimize their appearance and make your tiles look new again. Here are 7 items that you can use to remove scratches from ceramic and porcelain tiles.

Toothpaste – Beyond preventing cavities, toothpaste is also effective in removing minor tile scratches. Its mild abrasive properties can help smooth out the edges of scratches and reduce their appearance. Simply apply a small amount of non-gel toothpaste and gently rub it with a soft cloth. Remember not to rub too harshly or too long so as not to dull the tile’s finish. If needed, you can apply some polish to restore its shine.
Baking Soda – Baking soda, a versatile household staple, is not just for baking. Its mild abrasive properties make it effective for removing light surface scratches from tiles. To use, create a paste by mixing baking soda with water. Apply the paste to the scratched area and gently scrub with a damp soft cloth or a soft-bristled brush in circular motions. Rinse thoroughly and dry.
Brass Polish and Car Wax – Brass polish and car wax aren't just for metals; they can also be effective tools for tackling deeper tile scratches. To use, apply brass polish to the affected area and gently rub in a small circular motion. Once the scratch is removed, apply a coat of car wax to protect the tile's surface and maintain its shine.
Nail Polish – For minor tile scratches, a quick and easy solution is to fill them in with nail polish. After cleaning the tile with soap and water and allowing it to dry, apply a thin coat of nail polish directly to the scratch. For a more seamless finish, consider using a nail polish color that closely matches your tile. Allow the nail polish to dry completely, and apply additional coats as needed.
Vinegar and Olive Oil – For deeper tile scratches, you can turn to your kitchen pantry. A simple mixture of equal parts vinegar and olive oil can work wonders and help minimize the appearance of scrapes. The vinegar helps dissolve dirt and grime, while the olive oil hydrates the tile. Apply the solution to the scratched area using a soft cloth, gently rub, and let it sit for a few minutes. Finally, wipe away any excess.
Oxalic Acid – For stubborn scratches that resist other methods, oxalic acid can be a powerful solution. However, it's important to use it with caution, as it's a strong acid. After thoroughly cleaning the tile to remove any debris, apply oxalic acid to the scratched area using a sponge. Gently rub the acid into the scratch, but avoid excessive pressure to prevent damaging the tile. Let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe it clean with a damp cloth. You may need to repeat this process several times to achieve the desired results.
Scratch Repair Kit – If you don’t prefer the DIY route, you can always use a commercial scratch repair kit designed specifically for ceramic and porcelain tiles. These kits typically contain specialized fillers and polishes to effectively repair scratches. Remember to always choose a kit that's compatible with your tile type and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.

Summary

Tiles, no matter how durable they are, are not prone to scratches. Fortunately, there are several ways to help repair these imperfections – from minor scrapes to deeper scratches – and restore your tiles. However, it’s crucial to avoid harsh chemicals and test any cleaning solution in an inconspicuous area to prevent unintended damage to your tiles.

If any of these steps can’t help remove persistent scratches or the damage is too extensive, then you can always consider replacing your tiles and visiting your trusted tile shop. Robins Design Gallery is a wall tile and floor tile company, offering a wide range of porcelain and ceramic tiles. You may contact us today or visit our showroom to learn more about our collections.

We have several branches in Visayas and Mindanao:

Mandaue, Cebu:

+63 917 623 7257 | +63 917 114 7903

Cebu:

+63 917 631 3902 | +63 917 636 9053

Iloilo:

+6333 323 4750 | +63 917 551 0049

Cagayan De Oro:

+6388 852 1874 | +63 917 623 5602

Davao:

+6382 287 8241 | +63 917 551 1362