Terrazzo floors are popular for their durability and appealing appearance. These floor surfaces are smooth and often sealed, making them resistant to dirt and easy to clean. Different terrazzo floor cleaning solutions are available in the marketplace, such as pH-neutral cleaners, dish soap, vacuum terrazzo floor cleaners, and so on. But there are also harsh chemicals that damage the floor surface and cost high.
You can preserve the appearance with the right cleaning techniques and solutions while ensuring its longevity. Go through our comprehensive guide, which covers everything you need to know, like -
Terrazzo floor cleaning basic rules
Best terrazzo floor cleaning solutions
Best homemade terrazzo floor cleaners
How often should you clean the terrazzo floor, and
Common mistakes to avoid while cleaning the floor.
What is a Terrazzo Floor?
A terrazzo floor is a durable, composite material floor made with small pieces of stone, glass, marble, quartz, pearl, and many others mixed with binding material (epoxy or resin). The word “terrazzo” comes from the Italian word for “terrace.” This flooring system is easy to maintain and requires only basic cleaning. Also, it provides different colors or patterns.

There are different types of terrazzo flooring depending on material types, such as -
Traditional cement-based terrazzo
Epoxy terrazzo
Precast terrazzo tiles
Sand cushion terrazzo
Monolithic terrazzo
Rustic terrazzo, and others.
However, a terrazzo floor is considered an eco-friendly option because it uses recycled materials and reduces the amount of energy used in manufacturing, transportation, and installation.
Is Terrazzo floor trendy in 2025?
Yes, terrazzo flooring is trendy in 2025 for its sturdy and durable features, timeless appeal, and versatility. Also, this floor is useful for residential and commercial spaces, like schools, hospitals, airports, etc.
Terrazzo Floor Cleaner Basics Rules
Before acknowledging terrazzo floor cleaner and polishing, you must ensure what kind of binder you use and aggregates. After that, you can consult with professionals for effective cleaning. Here, we’ve highlighted some basic terrazzo floor cleaning rules:
1. Dust Mop or Vacuum Daily
As we mentioned earlier, cleaning terrazzo floors can affect their condition. So, to avoid damage, use a high-quality vacuum cleaner. You can follow the steps below to process cleaning a terrazzo floor properly.
Step 1: Remove all objects on terrazzo floors and ensure no obstacles affect your cleaning around.
Step 2: Use your vacuum cleaner to gently pick up dust and dirt and clean the surface properly.
Step 3: If your vacuum cleaner is equipped with the mopping function, you can add warm water and neutral detergents to mop terrazzo floors thoroughly. Remember, do not leave the vacuum cleaner in one place for more than 15 seconds, as it causes damage to the terrazzo floor.
Step 4: When you have finished the cleaning, open the windows for air drying or dry the floor using a dry microfiber.
2. Wet Clean Weekly
Who doesn’t want to maintain the breathtaking beauty and luxurious view of the terrazzo floor? A weekly wet clean helps you remove dirt, retain its aesthetic appeal, and ensure its longevity by protecting the surface.
Step 1: Remove furniture, rugs, or other objects from the floor to ensure easy access to the entire surface. After that, use a vacuum or microfiber dust mop to clean dirt.
Step 2: Use a bucket and fill it with warm water (1 gallon) and mild dish soap (1-2 tablespoons), or add ¼ cup rubbing alcohol for extra disinfecting power.
Step 3: Use the cleaning solution to mop the floor perfectly. Start in one corner of the room and work your way across.
Step 4: Dry the floor using a soft, dry microfiber or air dryer to prevent further stains and replace the furniture.
3. Use pH-neutral Cleaners
Using pH-neutral cleaners is safe for regular cleaning without risking damage to the terrazzo surface. Also, it preserves the appearance of your terrazzo floor. Remember to choose the right cleaner specifically formulated one. Go through the expert-suggested step-by-step guide below to use for cleaning terrazzo floors:
Step 1: Sweep or vacuum the floor to remove dust, dirt, and debris to prevent particles from scratching the surface during cleaning.
Step 2: Take a warm water bucket, add the pH-neutral cleaner (typically 1-2 ounces per gallon of water), and stir gently to combine.
Step 3: Thoroughly use a soft or microfiber mop to stain areas.
Step 4: Now, use a dry towel, dry microfiber, or air dry the area for a streak-free finish.
4. DIY Hacks
You can apply DIY terrazzo floor cleaner hacks to clean stubborn stains or seams between the floor. The process is simple; there is no need for vacuuming and mopping. Instead, use detergents for in-depth cleanup. Here’s a step-by-step guide to properly apply DIY neutral detergent cleaning at home:
Step 1: Take a clean empty spray bottle and mix ¼ teaspoon (around 1.23 ml) of dish soap, ¼ cup (around 59 ml) of rubbing alcohol, and one cup (around 236 ml) of water to thoroughly clean a terrazzo floor.
Step 2: Spray on dirty sports on the terrazzo floors and wait up to 30 seconds to 3 minutes to dissolve the stain.
Step 3: Wash the stain with a damp towel or rag. If you notice the stain remains, repeat the process until the stain is fully removed.
Step 4: Finally, your terrazzo floor clean perfectly. However, you can use a wet-dry robot vacuum to do it automatically.
5. Don't Over-wax Terrazzo Floors
As you noticed, there are different types of terrazzo floors available. Some require topical wax, but overuse can damage the terrazzo floor permanently. Also, it makes the surface extremely slippery, traps dirt, and makes the floor difficult to clean properly.
How do professionals clean terrazzo?
Professional craftsmen clean terrazzo regularly by vacuuming or sweeping to remove dust with neutral cleaners. But for tough stains, experts apply a paste of baking soda and water to the area and then gently scrub with a soft brush.

What is the Best Terrazzo Floor Cleaner?
The Bona multi-surface floor cleaner, Stone Care International, Rejuvenate Professional Wood Floor Restorer, and many other best terrazzo floor cleaning products are available in the marketplace. However, consider those cleaning products that are made for terrazzo floors and avoid using harsh, all-purpose cleaners and chemical solutions. Also, it’s ideal to consult with professional terrazzo cleaning experts. Below are top-selling floor cleaners to ease your cleaning process:
1. Bona Multi-surface Floor Cleaner
Water-based and biodegradable without formaldehyde, ammonia, petroleum, phosphates, parabens, or added dyes. Just spray and mop and enjoy a refreshing lemon scent without any stains or dirt. The cleaning solution protects the floor from discoloration and harm; it is safe for hard-surface floors like stone, tile, laminate, vinyl, etc. USA-certified and meets EPA product standards, it is a safer choice for pets, people, and the planet.
Custom ratings: 4.6 out of 5 (Amazon ratings)
Price: $15.94 (32 Fl Oz)
2. Stone Care International
One of the best stone cleaning solutions for granite, marble, limestone, slate, and other natural stone surfaces. The product removes watermarks, grime, and tough stains without leaving behind spots.
Custom ratings: 4.5 out of 5 (Amazon ratings)
Price: $10.98 (32 Fl Oz)
3. Rejuvenate Professional Wood Floor Restorer & Polish
Non-toxic wood and tile floor cleaning solutions are perfect for residential and commercial hardwood floor restoration and polishing projects. Residue-free, high gloss shine, and pH-balanced formula won’t harm the floor’s finish.
Custom ratings: 4.6 out of 5 (Amazon ratings)
Price: $53 (32 Fl Oz)
Can you use bleach on terrazzo?
No, you should not use bleach to clean terrazzo because it is too harsh for the flooring surface and can cause damage like discoloration, etching, and dullness.
What chemical can clean terrazzo?
To clean the terrazzo floor, you should use a pH-neutral cleaner for stone terrazzo type. However, the best cleaning substances are a mixture of mild dish soap and warm water.
What is the Best Homemade Terrazzo Floor Cleaner?
The best floor cleaner for terrazzo is a mixture of a small amount of dish soap, a quarter cup of rubbing alcohol, and a couple of cups of warm water. This cleaning combination effectively cleans dirt and stains, maintaining the terrazzo surface's natural look.
Instructions:
Mix the warm water, dish soap, and rubbing alcohol in a bucket. Avoid using too much soap or alcohol to prevent residue buildup.
Use a soft mop or microfiber cloth to mop the floor with the solution properly.
If cleaned properly, allow the floor to air dry or dry it with a soft towel for a stain-free finish.
If there is any stain remaining, mop again and dry.
How to Clean a Terrazzo Floor with Cleaner?
To clean a terrazzo floor with cleaner, use a dedicated neutral cleaner like pH cleaner diluted in water, mop properly with the solution, and dry afterward. Below, we’ve listed some common stains and removal solutions:
Oil and grease stains: Mix baking soda and water and make a paste. Apply the paste to the stain and let it dry for around 30 minutes. Gently scrub it with a soft cloth and rinse it with water.
Food and beverage stains: Clean the stains with a clean cloth, but for old stains, use a solution (water and mild dish soap), let it dry, and wipe it clean.
Rust stains: Create a paste with baking soda and water, apply it to the rust stain, and keep it dry for 10-15 minutes. After that, scrub gently and rinse thoroughly.
Water stains: Dry the area to prevent further stains. For stubborn water marks, use a diluted vinegar solution and wipe immediately.
How Often Should You Clean the Terrazzo Floor?
You should clean the terrazzo floor daily to keep it stain-free, dust-free, and its appearance. Here is a detailed schedule of the cleaning process:
1. Daily Maintenance
Daily dust mopping is essential to remove loose dirt, dust, and debris that can scratch the terrazzo floor surface over time. Must use a microfiber mop for effective dust capture.
2. Weekly Cleaning
Choose a pH-neutral cleaner only for terrazzo floors. Take a bucket with warm water and the cleaning solution. After that, use a clean mop, apply the solution across the floor, and mop it thoroughly. Give some time to dry the floor.
3. Bi-annual Maintenance
Inspect terrazzo floor sealers twice yearly to inspect tear and wear. Contact an expert terrazzo floor repair service provider if any tear or damage is noticed.
How to Avoid Terrazzo Floor Cleaning Mistakes?
Terrazzo is a trendy and visually appealing floor, but to keep it shining, you must avoid common mistakes when cleaning your terrazzo floor, such as -
1. Let the Cleaning Solution Dry on the Floor
When you let a cleaning solution like detergent dry on the floor, it causes stains and dullness on your terrazzo floor. Even if you use a non-abrasive cleaner, you'll need to rinse it off after using it. Avoid using scouring powder for tough dirt like dried food or gum because it can damage the material's surface and make it look dull over time.
2. Using Acrylic Floor Finishes
Acrylic floor finishes are harmful to terrazzo floor cleaning because they can cause damage, including discoloration, staining, and gloss loss.
3. Using All-purpose Cleaners
All-purpose terrazzo floor cleaners like bleach are not suitable for cleaning the floor. These cleaners are too harsh and the residue is left behind. Also, avoid using acidic or alkaline solutions too.
4. Scrubbing with Hard Materials
When it comes to cleaning high-quality terrazzo floors, the common mistake you can make is using a brush or mop that’s too rough on the surface. However, if you do this, you’ll simply scratch and damage your floor.
5. Using Vinegar
Never use vinegar because it damages the finish and the concrete underneath your floor. Similarly, oil-based cleaning products will cause permanent discoloration.
Terrazzo Floor Cleaning FAQs
Can you Clean Terrazzo with Ccid?
No, you can’t clean terrazzo with acid because it can damage the terrazzo floor surface.
What Not to Use on Terrazzo Floors?
You should not use harsh cleaners, sealers, and scrubbing pads on terrazzo floors.
What is a pH Floor Cleaner?
A pH floor cleaner is a cleaning product with a pH level of around 7 (neither acidic nor alkaline). It is safe to use on various surfaces, including hardwood, tile, vinyl, stone, etc.
Can I Use Vinegar to Clean Terrazzo Floors?
No, you should not use vinegar to clean terrazzo floors. Vinegar's acidic properties damage the floor’s finish and the concrete underneath.
What Detergent is Used for Terrazzo Floors?
Terrazzo floor cleaning uses neutral-pH liquid cleaners, pH-neutral cleaners, and non-caustic cleaners. A mild dish soap and warm water mixture can also be used.
What is the Best Wax for Terrazzo Floors?
An acrylic wax finish is commonly applied to protect the terrazzo and enhance its appearance. However, acrylic finishes wear down quickly and require frequent buffing, stripping, and recoating.
Conclusion
Isn’t it easy to clean the terrazzo floor? With the practical terrazzo floor cleaner tips mentioned in this blog, you can properly maintain and keep your terrazzo floors in good condition. Feel free to share your thoughts and stay tuned!
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