Stone gets better with age. The more that stone is left alone the better it is.
Keeping your stone free of sand will minimize the scratches and wear patterns that can develop from everyday use ….sweep or dust all natural stone surfaces regularly to remove loose soil and dust. Clean your natural stone on a regular basis with warm water and a clean non abrasive cloth, sponge or mop. In addition using a neutral (low ph) cleaner specially formulated for natural stone will help remove soils that normal dusting or damp mopping leaves behind.
Do not use general purpose cleaners and do not use products that contain lemon, vinegar or other acids as these may etch the stone surface and damage the polish. Do not use scouring powders or creams; these products contain abrasives that may scratch the surface.
Cleaning on a regular basis to remove residues from cooking oils and everyday food spills as well as hairspray or other cosmetics. Many common foods and drinks contain acids that may etch or dull the stone surface…also some common toiletries such as perfume, toothpaste and mouthwash contain acids and other ingredients that may damage the stone surface or degrade the sealer.
In the bath or other wet areas, using a squeegee after each use can minimize soap scum and hard water deposit buildup.
Substances that are highly acidic such as coffee, vinegar, wine, tomato products, mustard and many soft drinks will “etch” most limestone, and travertine, whether the stone is sealed or unsealed. Although sealing allows you time to wipe up a spill, it cannot stop the chemical reaction that may leave a dull area or etch mark in the stone.
In addition, cleaners not specifically designed for natural stone are not recommended. These may etch away the polish, discolor the surface, scratch the stone or degrade the sealer…that’s why selecting the correct cleaning products is so important to the lifetime beauty of your natural stone.
Professional refinishing is the best way to permanently remove etch marks and restore your stones even finish.
No matter how careful you are spills are going to happen. A quick response and the right solutions can keep spills from damaging your stone.
DO use trivets or mats under hot dishes or cookware.
DO use placemats under china, ceramics, silver, or other objects that at may scratch your stones surface.
DO place a small rug or mat at entryways to trap dirt and sand from normal foot traffic.
DO dust countertops, islands, vanities and floors frequently
DO blot up spills immediately to minimize permanent damage to the stone.
DON’T use vinegar, bleach, ammonia, or other general purpose cleaners.
DON’T use cleaners that contain acid such as bathroom cleaners, grout cleaners, or tub and tile cleaners
DON’T use abrasive cleaners such as dry cleansers or soft cleansers.
DON’T use alkaline cleaners not specifically formulated for natural stone.
