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Care Instructions by Surface DIY Projects FAQ Material Safety Data Sheets Product Usage Instructions Stone Care Essentials Stone Care Videos Technical Documents Training Classes Glossary Submit a Question Search
Learn more about how to care for stone by location and by type of spill.
Maintenance Cleaning in Common Stone Locations Countertops and Vanities Use a neutral, pH-balanced cleaner specially formulated for stone on a regular basis to remove residues from cooking oils and everyday food spills, as well as hairspray or other cosmetics. Be careful with common foods and drinks contain acids that may etch or dull the stone surface. Also, some common toiletries (i.e., perfume, toothpaste, mouthwash) contain acids and other ingredients that may damage the stone surface or degrade the sealer.
Floor Surfaces Dust mop interior floors frequently using a clean, non-treated, dry dust mop. Sand, dirt and grit do the most damage to natural stone surfaces due to their abrasiveness. Mats or area rugs inside and outside an entrance will help to minimize the potential damage from these particles. In addition, be careful when using a vacuum cleaner as the metal or plastic attachments or wheels may scratch the surface. Damp mop the stone floor with a diluted solution of a neutral cleaner designed for stone. Keep off floor until completely dry, as wet stone floors may be slippery.
Bath and Other Wet Areas Periodic use of a neutral stone cleaner will remove any soap scum or hard water deposits that may have formed. In the bath, or other wet areas, using a squeegee after each use can minimize soap scum and hard water deposit buildup.
What to Do When a Spill Occurs 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 or degrading the sealer.
Etch Marks Highly acidic substances such as orange juice, coffee, vinegar, wine, tomato products, mustard and many soft drinks will 鈥渆tch鈥� most marble, limestone and travertine. Sealing allows you time to wipe up a spill, but it cannot stop the chemical reaction that may leave a dull mark.
General 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. Professional refinishing is the best way to permanently remove etch marks and restore your natural stone鈥檚 even finish.
Food Spills Scoop up the food with a plastic spoon. Blot with dry, white cloth. Spray the area with a neutral stone cleaner and wipe off excess with a clean cloth.
Liquid Spills Blot away the excess with a clean, dry, white cloth while turning the cloth frequently. Spray the area with a neutral stone cleaner and wipe off excess with a clean cloth.
Mud Let the mud stain dry completely. Remove dried mud with a soft plastic or nylon brush. Spray affected area with a neutral stone cleaner. Wipe dry with a clean cloth. If the stain remains, contact a professional cleaner.
Oily Stains If you identify the stain as having an oil base (from foods like salad, cooking oils, butter or some cosmetics) you may be able to remove the stain using a poultice. A poultice will wick up the stain from deep within the stone.
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