How to clean zellige tiles without damaging the glaze
Why the Glaze Needs Special Attention
Authentic zellige tiles are made from natural Moroccan clay and hand-dipped in glaze before being fired in a kiln. That glaze is what gives zellige its signature light-catching shimmer and depth of colour. Unlike factory tiles, the glaze on zellige is applied by hand, which means it can vary in thickness across each tile — and in some areas it is thinner and more vulnerable to damage from the wrong cleaning products.
Using harsh chemicals, acidic cleaners, or abrasive tools on zellige can dull the glaze permanently, strip the surface sheen, and leave your tiles looking flat and lifeless. The fix is simple though — gentle, regular cleaning is all your zellige needs.
What You Will Need
- Soft microfibre cloth or sponge
- pH-neutral, non-abrasive cleaner (such as Simple Green or any mild dish soap)
- Warm water
- Soft-bristled brush (for grout lines)
- Dry soft cloth for finishing
Step-by-Step: How to Clean Zellige Tiles
Step 1 — Remove loose dirt first Before using any liquid, sweep, dust, or wipe the surface with a dry microfibre cloth to remove loose debris. Grit left on the surface can act like sandpaper when you start mopping, causing micro-scratches on the glaze over time.
Step 2 — Mix your cleaning solution Mix warm water with a small amount of pH-neutral cleaner. You do not need much — a mild solution is all that is required for routine cleaning.
Step 3 — Wipe gently Using a soft damp cloth or sponge, wipe the tiles in gentle circular motions. Do not scrub hard. The glaze does not need force — it just needs a gentle lift of any surface residue.
Step 4 — Clean the grout lines Use a soft-bristled brush to gently clean between tiles. Grout lines can collect grease and grime over time, especially in kitchens. A paste of baking soda and water works well for stubborn grout staining — apply, leave for a few minutes, and brush away gently.
Step 5 — Rinse and dry immediately Rinse with clean warm water and dry immediately with a soft cloth. Do not leave zellige tiles sitting wet for long periods, as moisture can penetrate grout lines and cause long-term issues.
What to Avoid
This is the most important part. These are the things that will damage your zellige glaze:
- Vinegar or lemon juice — acidic and will etch and dull the glaze over time
- Bleach or ammonia-based cleaners — too harsh for the handmade glaze
- Abrasive scrubbing pads or steel wool — will scratch and permanently dull the surface
- Steam cleaners — the intense heat and moisture can penetrate the clay body and damage both the tile and grout
- Generic tile cleaning sprays — many contain acids or harsh chemicals not suitable for zellige
Do Zellige Tiles Need Sealing?
The glazed surface of zellige tiles does not require sealing — the glaze itself acts as a protective layer. However, the grout lines between tiles should be sealed, especially in wet areas like showers, kitchen splashbacks, and around sinks. Sealing the grout prevents moisture and staining from penetrating over time and makes day-to-day cleaning much easier.
How Often Should You Clean Zellige Tiles?
For kitchen splashbacks, wipe down after cooking to remove grease and splatters before they dry. For bathroom walls and shower enclosures, a weekly gentle wipe with warm water and mild soap is all you need. For zellige floors in low-traffic spaces, sweep regularly and mop monthly.
The Simple Rule
If you remember nothing else: soft cloth, pH-neutral cleaner, warm water, dry immediately. That is genuinely all zellige needs to stay beautiful for decades.
Handtile zellige tiles are handmade in Fes, Morocco by skilled artisans using centuries-old techniques. Browse our full collection of authentic bejmat and square zellige tiles, available in a range of colours including Sage, Onyx, Terra, Saffron and Blush.