Though inherently durable, natural stone surfaces such as granite, marble, quartz, and travertine require special care when it comes to cleaning and everyday upkeep. Check with your cleaning staff to make sure they are using stone-safe products and tools. 

The most popular cleaning products are not always the best choice for your natural stone surfaces. 

If you recently installed new marble countertops in the kitchen or gave your master bath a makeover in quartz, it may be worth talking to your cleaning staff about the products they use to ensure your stone surfaces are in the best hands. 

Natural stone cleaning: 101

There is nothing quite like the look of natural stone in your home. Whether it’s the gleam of granite or the textured elegance of travertine, something about its centuries-old beauty elevates the look and feel of your interior spaces.  

But although stone is inherently durable, it doesn’t mean it can’t be damaged—and one of the biggest mistakes people make is using common household cleaning products. 

Below is a list of products to avoid when caring for natural stone. 

• Harsh chemicals. Many popular tub and tile cleaners as well as grout cleaning products contain chemicals (including bleach) that can strip down stone and leave its surface vulnerable to damage. 

• Abrasive cleansers (and cleaning tools). Both liquid and powder abrasive cleansers should be avoided, as they can scratch your stone countertops, floors, and other surfaces. Likewise, steel wool and scouring pads should never be used on natural stone. 

• Acidic substances. You may think you’re doing your stone surfaces a favor by using eco-friendly, natural products that are advertised as safe for all surfaces. However, these products often contain vinegar and lemon juice, which are both highly acidic substances that can cause etching (dull or discolored marks). 

What should your house cleaner use to clean natural stone?

First, it is important to make sure your stone surfaces are properly sealed upon installation and throughout their lifetime. Marble, for example, should be resealed twice a year, travertine once a year, and granite every five years. 

Then, advise your house cleaner to use pH-neutral products that are specifically made for natural stone, such as these granite cleaning products. As an alternative, they can also use a simple mixture of warm water plus a mild dishwashing detergent. 

Tips for everyday stone care and maintenance

In addition to ensuring your cleaning staff use the safest products, there are things you and your family can do every day to keep your natural stone surfaces looking like new.  

The following is a list of important tips to follow when caring for natural stone.

• Clean spills quickly and dry the area thoroughly with a microfiber cloth.
• Use cutting boards, trivets, and hot pads to protect stone countertops.
• Avoid placing extremely hot or heavy items on your stone surfaces. 
• Use rugs in high-traffic areas to protect stone floors, and always remove shoes. 
• Use a tray or mat for cosmetic products to protect the bathroom vanity.
• Always wipe down shower walls with a squeegee after showering. 
• Minimize your stone’s exposure to direct sunlight (to avoid discoloration). 

Your stone is our specialty.

High-quality natural stone requires another level of care and attention than your average tile cleaning—and nobody understands that better than the experts at Arizona Stone Proz. If your stone surfaces are showing signs of damage from staining, etching, or everyday use, our master craftsmen can restore, polish, seal, and repair them back to their original beauty and luster. Call us today at (520) 779-2052, or schedule an appointment using our online form.