Natural Stone Cleaning

The best thing to clean natural stone depends on the type of stone and the severity of the cleaning required. Here’s a breakdown:

• For routine cleaning of most natural stone surfaces, a neutral stone cleaner, stone soap, or a mild dishwashing detergent diluted in warm water is recommended by the Natural Stone Institute.
• It’s important to avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, and acidic solutions like vinegar, which can damage the stone’s surface.

However, for the best and safest possible outcome, especially for deep cleaning, stain removal, or sealing, it’s recommended to consult a professional cleaning service that specializes in natural stone care. They have the expertise, experience, and appropriate cleaning products to ensure your natural stone surfaces are cleaned and protected effectively.

Natural stone restoration is a multi-step process that depends on the severity of the damage. Here’s a general overview:

• Cleaning: The first step is always a thorough cleaning to remove dirt, grime, and any surface contaminants. Professionals use appropriate cleaning solutions for the specific stone type.
• Grinding: For deeper scratches, uneven surfaces, or lippage (uneven grout lines), a grinding process with diamond-abrasive discs may be necessary. This flattens the surface for further treatment.
• Honing: Honing utilizes fine abrasive powders to smooth out the surface and remove light scratches and etch marks. It can also be used to achieve a specific finish, like a honed or matte look.
• Polishing: Polishing uses even finer abrasives to create a high-gloss finish, bringing back the stone’s shine and luster.
• Sealing: After restoration, a proper sealant is applied to protect the stone from stains and etching. Professionals can recommend the most suitable sealant type and ensure its proper application.

It’s important to note that restoration is a job best left to professionals. They have the expertise, experience, and specialized equipment to handle each step safely and effectively. Attempted DIY restoration using improper techniques or products can permanently damage your natural stone surfaces.

Here are two approaches to making natural stone shine:

Routine Maintenance for Shine:

• Daily Cleaning: Wipe down your natural stone surfaces with a damp microfiber cloth. Avoid using excessive water, as it can seep into the stone and cause problems. Change the rinse water frequently to avoid spreading dirt.
• Weekly Cleaning: For a more thorough clean, use a stone-safe cleaner or a mild dishwashing detergent diluted in warm water. Apply the solution with a microfiber cloth, then buff the surface dry with a clean, dry microfiber cloth.

Professional Polishing for Shine:

• Professional Polish: For a deep shine and to restore a lackluster stone surface, consider hiring a professional cleaning service. Professionals use specialized polishes and techniques to enhance the shine without damaging the stone.
• Benefits of Professional Polishing: Professional polishers can:
  • Safely remove scratches and etch marks that dull the stone’s surface.
  • Apply a polishing compound to create a high-gloss finish, revealing the stone’s natural beauty.
  • Use polishes formulated for specific stone types to ensure optimal results.

Important Note: Avoid using abrasive cleaners, harsh chemicals, or DIY polishing methods, as these can damage the stone’s surface and permanently affect its shine. Consult a professional for the safest and most effective way to make your natural stone shine.

No, you should not use Windex on natural stone surfaces. Windex contains several ingredients that can damage natural stone, including:

• Ammonia: This is a common ingredient in glass cleaners like Windex, but it can be too harsh for natural stone. Ammonia can etch or dull the surface of the stone, leaving it permanently cloudy or discolored.
• Streak-cutting agents: These can leave behind a film on the stone’s surface, making it appear greasy or dull.
• Dyes or perfumes: While uncommon, some Windex variations may contain dyes or perfumes that can stain natural stone.

Here’s why using Windex on natural stone is risky:

• Porous nature: Natural stone, like granite or marble, is somewhat porous. Windex can seep into the stone, potentially causing damage beyond the surface.
• Stripping of sealants: Even sealed stone can be at risk. Windex may break down or strip the sealant, leaving the stone vulnerable to stains and etching.

What to use instead of Windex:

• Warm water and microfiber cloth: For routine cleaning of dust and fingerprints, this is the safest option.
• Neutral stone cleaner: These are specially formulated for natural stone and won’t harm the surface.
• Consult a professional: For deep cleaning, stain removal, or restoration, it’s always best to consult a professional cleaning service specializing in natural stone care.

Removing limescale from natural stone requires a delicate approach, as some cleaning methods suitable for other surfaces can damage the stone. Here’s how to tackle limescale on natural stone:

Identify Your Stone Type:

The first step is to identify the type of natural stone you have. This is crucial because some stones, like marble and travertine, are more susceptible to acid-based cleaners. Granite is generally more resistant to acids.

DIY Cleaning for Milder Limescale (Granite):

• For mild limescale on granite countertops: You can try a solution of warm water and white vinegar diluted in a 1:1 ratio. Soak a clean microfiber cloth in the solution, wring it out thoroughly to avoid excess moisture, and wipe down the affected area. Rinse with clean water and dry completely with another microfiber cloth.

Important Note: Never use vinegar on marble, travertine, limestone, or other acid-sensitive stones. Vinegar can etch these surfaces.

Non-Acidic Cleaning for All Stones:

• Poultice method: Create a paste using baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the limescale deposit and leave it for several hours, or even overnight for stubborn stains. Gently scrub the area with a soft brush (not metal) and rinse thoroughly with clean water. Dry completely with a microfiber cloth.

Always Test in an Inconspicuous Area:

Before applying any cleaning solution, test it on a small, inconspicuous area of the stone first. This helps ensure the solution won’t cause discoloration or etching.

When in Doubt, Consult a Professional:

For heavily built-up limescale, deep cleaning, or if you’re unsure about your stone type, it’s highly recommended to consult a professional cleaning service specializing in natural stone care. They have the expertise, experience, and appropriate cleaning products to safely and effectively remove limescale without damaging your beautiful surfaces.