Seven Tips for Cleaning Stone Surfaces
Natural stone is a popular choice of material for kitchen and bathroom surfaces, but it can be tricky to clean. Natural stone is porous, which means that it’s susceptible to staining and damage from harsh chemical cleaners. To keep your stone surfaces looking their best, follow these seven tips for stone cleaning.
- Sweeping and Vacuuming
Use a soft bristle broom or vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment to remove debris from the surface of your stone. This will also help prevent dirt from being ground into the surface over time.
- Wiping Down Surfaces
Wipe down your stone surfaces with a damp cloth or sponge regularly to remove any residue before it has the chance to dry or accumulate on the surface of the stone. Avoid using abrasive scrubbing pads or steel wool, as they can scratch and damage the finish of your natural stone surfaces.
- Spot Treat Stains
If you notice any spots or stains on your stone surfaces, you can use a gentle cleanser specifically formulated for natural stones such as granite, marble, travertine, limestone, etc. Be sure to read all instructions carefully before using any cleaning product on your natural stones, and always test it in an inconspicuous area first before applying it to a larger area.
- Avoid Abrasive Cleaners and Scrubbing Pads
Abrasive cleaners, such as bleach-based products, abrasive powders and steel wool scrubbing pads can cause permanent damage to natural stones by etching away at their surface layer over time. Always avoid using these types of products when cleaning your natural stones!
- Use Neutral pH Cleaners
When possible, opt for neutral pH cleaners that are specifically designed for use on natural stones such as granite countertops or marble floors. These types of products are milder than regular household cleaners and won’t strip away the protective sealant applied to most natural stones after installation—this helps maintain their glossy shine without fading over time!
- Seal Stone Surfaces Regularly
Sealing is an important part of maintaining the look and feel of your natural stones. It prevents staining by creating a barrier between the porous material and liquids that may come in contact with its surface area (examples include wine/juice spills).
Re-seal every three to six months, depending on how often you use them, to maintain optimal protection against staining!
- Waxing and Polishing
Waxing and polishing are great ways to add extra shine and protection against wear and tear on certain types of stones (such as marble) where sealing may not be enough. You should only wax/polish once every six months though, so make sure you follow manufacturer instructions closely if you decide this route is right for you.
