How to Care for Natural Stone at Home – Keep It Pristine with Expert Tips
15 November 2024Natural stone brings timeless beauty and elegance to any home. Whether it’s marble countertops, travertine floors, or granite tiles, maintaining the lustrous appearance of natural stone can be challenging due to its porous nature. Proper care ensures its durability and extends its lifespan. Here are some expert tips to help you protect and care for your natural stone surfaces at home.
Clean Spills Immediately
Natural stone is porous, making it susceptible to staining when exposed to spills like coffee, wine, or oil. As soon as a spill occurs, use a soft cloth to blot (not wipe) it up. This prevents the stain from setting in deeper and avoids spreading it around.
Use pH-Balanced Cleaners
Harsh cleaning products containing vinegar, ammonia, or citrus-based solutions can damage the natural stone surface and cause etching or discoloration. Opt for pH-balanced stone cleaners specifically designed for natural stone. Avoid using abrasive sponges or scrubbers that could scratch the surface.
Seal Your Natural Stone Regularly
Sealing is a critical step in maintaining your natural stone’s luster and durability. The frequency of resealing depends on the type of stone and its usage. As a general rule, high-traffic areas or surfaces like kitchen countertops should be sealed annually. Check if your stone needs resealing by sprinkling a few drops of water on it. If it soaks in quickly, it’s time for a reseal.
Avoid Abrasive Materials
When cleaning natural stone, use a soft microfiber cloth, mop, or non-abrasive pad. Steer clear of steel wool, scouring pads, and harsh scrubbing brushes that can scratch or damage your stone’s surface.
Dust and Sweep Regularly
For floors and tiled surfaces, dusting or sweeping on a regular basis keeps dirt and grit from scratching the stone. Dry mopping is ideal for this, as it safely removes debris without harming the stone.
Use Mats and Rugs
Placing mats and rugs at entryways can help catch dirt and grit that may be tracked into your home. This simple step significantly reduces wear and tear on natural stone floors.
Avoid Standing Water
Standing water can lead to discoloration or even damage to your stone over time. Be sure to wipe down your countertops and floors to keep them dry and prevent potential issues from developing.
Polish for Shine
To bring back your stone’s shine, periodic polishing is recommended. However, it’s best to leave this to the professionals, especially if it requires using special machinery or products.
Call in the Experts When Needed
Caring for natural stone can be time-consuming, and some tasks, like deep cleaning or resealing, are best left to the professionals. That’s where we come in! At All Out Cleaning Care Inc., we have the experience, specialized tools, and knowledge needed to restore and maintain your natural stone’s pristine condition.
Whether it’s deep cleaning, sealing, or removing tough stains, let us do the heavy lifting to ensure your stone surfaces stay beautiful for years to come. Contact All Out Cleaning Care Inc. today to schedule a professional cleaning service!
Image by KamranAydinov on Freepik