The good news is that scratches on both polished porcelain tiles and natural stone tiles can be repaired and the surface restored to showroom condition. To resolve the issue, you have the choice of either DIY or hiring a professional tile restoration company.
DIY Porcelain Tile Scratch Repair
There are several DIY methods you can try to fix scratched porcelain tiles:
Toothpaste Trick
Clean the area first with a damp cloth. Then, rub a small amount of white, paste-type toothpaste over the scratch using a circular motion. Allow the toothpaste to fill in the scratch and let it dry completely. You can then sand down the toothpaste to match the rest of the tile surface.
Baking Soda Solution
Mix baking soda and water into a paste-like consistency. Use a non-abrasive scrubbing pad or soft-bristled brush to apply the paste to the scratched area and gently scrub. Rinse the tile and dry it completely.
Porcelain Repair Kit
You can find specialized porcelain tile repair kits at most home improvement stores. These kits typically include sandpaper, a catalyzed repair compound, and a matching glaze to blend the repair into the tile surface.
Professional Porcelain Tile Restoration
If the DIY methods don’t work or the scratches are too deep, it’s best to hire a professional tile restoration company. They have access to more heavy-duty tools and techniques to grind down and refinish the tile without damaging the surrounding area. This is the best option for significant or widespread scratching on your porcelain tiles.