How to Clean and Maintain Cotto Tile Floors

Quick Answer

To keep your Cotto tile floors looking their best, sweep or vacuum daily, mop with a pH-neutral cleaner, and seal them every 1-2 years with a penetrating sealer.

Step-by-Step Cotto Tile Care Routine

1. 1. Daily Dust and Debris Removal: Use a soft-bristle broom, a dust mop, or a vacuum with a hard-floor attachment to remove loose dirt and grit. Grit acts like sandpaper on unglazed Cotto, so daily sweeping prevents scratches. Avoid using a vacuum with a beater bar, as it can scratch the tile surface.
2. 2. Damp Mop with pH-Neutral Cleaner: Mix a pH-neutral cleaner (pH 7) with warm water according to the label. Mop the floor using a well-wrung mop—never soak the tile. Excess water can seep into the porous clay and cause staining or efflorescence. Never use vinegar, lemon juice, or bleach; these acids etch the tile surface.
3. 3. Blot Spills Immediately: As soon as a spill happens, blot it with a clean, dry cloth. Do not rub, which spreads the liquid deeper into the pores. For oil-based spills, use a mild dish soap solution, then rinse with clean water. For stubborn stains, make a paste of baking soda and water, apply it, let it dry, then gently brush away.
4. 4. Seal Every 1-2 Years: Apply a penetrating sealer designed for terra cotta or unglazed tile. Use a clean cloth or sponge to apply a thin, even coat, let it soak in for the time specified on the product, then wipe off any excess. Allow 24 hours to cure before heavy use. Test the sealer on a hidden area or a sample tile first to ensure it does not darken the color more than you like.
5. 5. Use Doormats and Furniture Pads: Place doormats at all entrances to trap dirt before it reaches the tile. Attach felt pads to the legs of chairs, tables, and other furniture to prevent scratches when moving items. Avoid rubber-backed mats, as the backing can discolor the tile over time.

Products Mentioned

• 6.5x13 Rectangle + Fired Earth: Cotto, a Terra Cotta love story. Cotto (from the Italian terra cotta or 'baked earth') is part of a long line of fired clays that date back to the dawn of civilization itself. Understanding that Cotto is a natural, porous clay helps you choose the right cleaning and sealing products to protect it.

  

• 4x4 Square + Red Clay, Sample: The 4x4 Square Red Clay Sample provides a concise preview of the brand’s Cotto collection, hand‑crafted from natural red clay with a warm, earthy hue and subtle texture. Testing a sample lets you see how the tile reacts to cleaning products and sealers before committing to a full installation.