Stone Care Tips

Use only a safe cleaner that’s intended specifically for natural stone.
Follow instructions on the label. Do not use more than the recommended amount. If you use too much, a film can develop causing unsightly streaks.
Change your rinse water frequently.
Avoid cleaning products that contain lemon, vinegar and other acids on marble, travertine or limestone as these can etch the stone’s surface.
Do not use scouring powders or creams; these products contain abrasives that may scratch the surface.

Dust mop interior floors frequently with a clean, untreated dry dust mop. Sand, dirt and grit do the most damage to natural stone surfaces due to their abrasiveness.
Put mats or area rugs inside and outside an entrance. Mats and rugs minimize the amount of sand, dirt and grit that can scratch a stone floor.
Ensure that the underside of the mat or rug has a non-slip surface.
Avoid using vacuum cleaners that are worn, because the metal or plastic attachments may scratch the surface.

In the bath, shower or other wet areas, minimize soap scum by using a squeegee after your shower. Clean grout regularly to avoid buildup of mold and scum.

Clean your countertops daily with a soft cloth or paper towel and a residue- free cleaner designated safe for natural stone.

If streaking occurs, buff the countertop with a clean white terry cloth or paper towel.
Use a good stone polish occasionally. This will give your stone added lustre and clarity.
Seal, if necessary. Apply a penetrating sealer on countertops. If a sealer is applied, be sure that it is non-toxic and safe for use in food preparation surfaces.

To remove algae or moss in outdoor pools, patios or hot tub areas, flush with clear water and use a mild bleach solution.

Dust mop floors frequently.
Clean surfaces with a neutral stone cleaner.
Thoroughly rinse and dry the surface after washing.
Blot up spills immediately.
Protect floor surfaces with non-slip mats or area rugs.
Protect counter top surfaces with coasters, trivets or place mats, particularly under those containing alcohol or citrus juices. Many common foods and drinks contain acids that will etch or dull the stone surface.

Don’t place hot items directly on the stone surface. Use trivets or mats under hot dishes and place mats under china, ceramics, silver or other objects that can scratch the surface.
Don’t use vinegar, lemon juice or other cleaners containing acids to clean marble, limestone, travertine or onyx surfaces.
Don’t use acid-based cleaners (e.g. bathroom cleaners, grout cleaners or tub & tile cleaners).
Don’t use abrasive cleaners such as dry cleansers or soft cleansers.
Don’t mix bleach and ammonia; this combination creates a toxic and lethal gas.

If possible, immediately blot spills with a clean paper towel. If something has soaked into the stone and stained it, a poultice may need to be applied.
Your natural stone and grout may need to be periodically sealed. For small jobs, you can purchase the product and do it yourself, or contact us to perform the service for you.

We hope you enjoy these stone care tips and benefit from them for great stone for many years to come!

DC/VA
301-261-1966