Caring for your natural stone can sometimes be confusing, with so many products on the market it’s important to select the proper ones to avoid permanent damage to your objects and surfaces you wish to clean. The first step is to properly identify the type of stone you are trying to clean, since they have different levels of sensitivity that affect what you can or cannot use. You can learn more about the different types of stone in previous posts on our Education page here.
One thing to keep in mind is that prevention is the best medicine. It is recommended to seal your natural stone surfaces with a good quality impregnating sealer, this will allow a longer reaction time to clean up spills. Most stones will require sealer re-application yearly or every few years depending on use. Also be mindful to use coasters, trivets and place mats to cover these surfaces to avoid scratches and spills wherever possible.
Some general guidelines for everyday cleaning:
Do wipe the surfaces with non-abrasive cloths to remove dust and particles
Do use mild detergent or stone soap with water, this must be a pH neutral solution
Do rinse and dry the surface with clean water after washing
Do blot up spills immediately, rinse with water and mild soap for any residual stains and repeat
Do Not use typical household cleaners that contain acid, such as bathroom, tile and grout cleaners, lemon or vinegar
Do Not use abrasive cleaners such as dry or soft cleansers
Do Not use abrasive scrubbing pads that may affect the surface of your stone
When it comes to stubborn stains, deep abrasions, or worn out surfaces caused by etching, it may be best to contact your local stone restoration expert. Natural stone is a durable material that has lasted the test of time, it involves regular cleaning and maintenance and finding a quality restoration expert for scheduled visits will help enhance the value of your home.