How To Care For Decorative Ceramic Art Tiles

Sublimation printing on ceramic tiles is becoming very popular among artists. The ceramic tiles make the vibrant colors pop with a glossy finish. The tiles can be used as a coaster, an accent piece in the home, or even a paperweight. The ceramic tile looks beautiful and is functional.

How To Clean Ceramic Art Tiles

Caring for your decorative ceramic art tiles should be easy if you know what to do and what not to do. Here are a few tips on taking care of those ceramics:

1. Do not use harsh chemicals on the tiles, such as bleach, ammonia, acetone, alcohol, or turpentine. These chemicals will eat away at the images and eventually destroy them over time. Even soaps with heavy degreasers may leave watermarks behind, which could cause damage to your artwork. The ceramic is meant for indoor display only, so keep it inside.

2. Clean the art tiles with a soft, dry cloth. You can wipe away fingerprints and dust with a dry cloth, but do not use anything that has water in it. If the ceramic tile gets wet, let it air dry.

3. Use mild soap and water to clean stubborn stains on the tiles. Do not use a rough cloth or sponge, as it may scratch the tile’s surface.

How Do You Waterproof Ceramic Tile Coasters And Tiles

You can use a coat of clear polyurethane on the tiles to protect them from scratching and water damage.

Water-based polyurethane is an excellent sealant for ceramic tile surfaces that have been painted. Polyurethane and urethane are the same product so that you can use either.

Before applying, clean the tile and check the label of the polyurethane you buy for any particular application instructions. Use between two and four coats for the best results.

How To Store Ceramic Art Tiles

There might be times when you want to display different tiles depending on the season or holidays. You can keep them in boxes or Ziploc bags to make the tiles easier to transport, but be sure to use acid-free materials so they do not damage your tiles.

Put tissue paper between tiles so the top doesn’t get scratched.

Never stack too many tiles and heavy objects on top of each other, as the pressure can cause damage to the tiles.

How To Display Your Tiles

Decorative ceramic art tiles can be used anywhere in the home. They add a pop of color and life to any tabletop, mantle, or accent piece. You can use them as coasters for drinks, paperweights on your desk, or hang them from the walls with an adhesive back or metal sawtooth hangers.

Wherever you decide to display your tiles will depend on the room decor and personal preference. For example, you can use tiles in an office space to add some color. You can hang tiles on your living room wall or place them on a bookshelf to create a focal point in the room.

The best places to use tiles are those where they can be seen. You don’t want them hidden behind a door or something else, so you miss the beautiful art on display.

Related Post: How To Hang Ceramic Tile Art.

Final Thoughts On Caring For Decorative Art Tiles

You should always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations on the best way to care for a ceramic tile. Do not use any chemicals or cleaners that are not recommended by the manufacturer, as they can ruin the color of the tiles and damage your artwork.

Keep your tiles inside so they do not fade or discolor from sunshine or high humidity exposure. Make sure you never stack anything on top of the tiles, as it could cause damage that may not be visible.

Now that you know how to care for ceramic art tiles, it is time to enjoy your home with beautiful artwork adorning your walls and surfaces. It doesn’t matter if these pieces are made of glass or ceramic-as long as you have something lovely to look at. 

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