Zellige care & maintenance

Zellige Home tiles are handcrafted by master artisans using centuries-old techniques, creating surfaces rich with character, natural variation, and enduring beauty. With thoughtful care, your Zellige tiles will continue to age gracefully, developing a patina that enhances their authentic charm over time.

Proper installation and maintenance are key to protecting the longevity and appearance of your tiles. We strongly recommend reviewing this guide fully with your installer before beginning any project.

Zellige Home is not responsible for the maintenance or installation of tile after delivery. We do not accept liability for damages incurred during or after installation, dissatisfaction related to natural variations in color, texture, or finish, or any issues arising from improper handling, storage, or maintenance.

General Care

You can easily maintain glazed Zellige tiles by cleaning to preserve their finish. To keep your tiles looking their best:

• Use a pH-neutral cleaner such as Miracle Sealants Heavy Duty Cleaner or a mild, non-acidic solution.
• Avoid harsh chemicals, including bleach, vinegar, or ammonia, which can etch or dull the surface.
• Dust and sweep regularly with a soft-bristle broom or vacuum with a brush attachment to prevent grit buildup.
• Mop with care. Use a damp (not soaking) mop and only a small amount of pH-neutral cleaner. Avoid excessive water, which can compromise grout and tile integrity over time.

Long-Term Care

Stain Removal

Zellige tiles are durable but porous, particularly in unglazed varieties. Prompt attention to spills helps prevent staining:

• Oil or Grease Stains (Unglazed Zellige): Wipe immediately with a damp cloth. For stubborn spots, use a mild, non-abrasive soap solution.
• Hard Water Stains (Glazed Zellige): Clean gently with a diluted white vinegar solution, then rinse thoroughly. Avoid vinegar on unglazed tiles.
• Food Spills: Wipe up spills immediately. For stubborn stains, use a pH-neutral cleaner and a damp cloth to clean the surface.

Sealing and Protection

Sealing is essential for maintaining unglazed Zellige and can protect surfaces in high-moisture areas.

Unglazed Zellige:

Before you begin grouting, seal the tile body with a penetrating sealer, such as 511 Porous Plus. Reapply every 1-2 years or more often in high-traffic or wet areas.

Glazed Zellige:

Glazed tiles generally don't need sealing. In wet or high-traffic areas, apply a protective wax finish, such as FILA Matte Wax Sealer, after the grout and tile have fully cured.

Grout Lines:

Grout should be sealed periodically to guard against moisture and staining, especially in showers or wet environments. Plan to re-seal every 12-18 months or as needed.

Dealing with Patina and Aging

Zellige tiles are celebrated for the natural patina they develop over time—fine crazing, softening of color, and subtle wear that reflect their artisanal nature.

Expect variation. Fine cracks (crazing), gentle shifts in tone, and a worn-in character are natural parts of the aging process.

Care for unglazed tiles. Because unglazed surfaces are more porous, patina will develop faster and may include deeper color shifts.

Embrace the character. Regular cleaning will maintain their appearance, but allowing a natural patina to form will enhance the richness and authenticity of your installation.

Long-Term Care and Prevention

Protect your tiles from unnecessary wear with a few simple precautions:

• Use furniture pads. Attach felt pads to the base of heavy objects to prevent surface scratching.
• Avoid abrasive materials. Do not use steel wool, abrasive pads, or harsh cleaners that can damage the glaze.
• Prevent impact damage. Although durable, Zellige tiles can chip if struck by heavy objects.

Ongoing Maintenance

• Unglazed Zellige: Reseal with a penetrating sealer every 12–18 months, or sooner in areas exposed to frequent moisture.
• Glazed Zellige: Maintain with regular, gentle cleaning; focus on resealing grout lines for continued protection.
• Wet Areas: To maintain protection in wet areas like showers, bathrooms, and kitchens, reseal the tile and grout once a year. Inspect more often in high-moisture environments and reseal as needed.

A Lifetime of Beauty

With proper care, Zellige Home tiles will bring enduring beauty and artisanal spirit to your space for generations. Their evolving surface, born of craftsmanship and nature, tells a story that grows richer with time.

For further support, please contact our team at support@zelligehome.com