Care and Maintenance

Floor Surfaces

Sweep away the worries of dust and grit by frequently dust mopping your stone floors with a clean, untreated dry mop. These tiny particles, though small, can be abrasive and cause damage. Welcoming mats or area rugs both inside and outside your entrances act as the first line of defense, capturing sand and dirt before they reach your floors. Make sure your mats or rugs are backed with a non-slip surface for added protection. Remember, it takes about eight steps to clear shoes of unwanted debris. Be cautious with vacuum cleaners, as worn parts or hard attachments may scratch your stone.

Other Surfaces

For everyday cleaning, a few drops of neutral stone cleaner mixed with warm water will do wonders. Use a clean rag mop for floors and a soft cloth for other surfaces to achieve a gleaming finish. Avoid using too much cleaner, as this can leave streaks and a dull film. Stay away from products containing lemon, vinegar, or other acids, especially on marble and limestone. After cleaning, rinse the surface thoroughly and dry it with a soft cloth, refreshing your rinse water frequently. Steer clear of scouring powders or creams, as they may scratch your stone’s delicate surface.

Bath and Other Wet Areas

In bathrooms or other wet areas, minimize soap scum by using a squeegee after each use. To remove any stubborn buildup, opt for a non-acidic soap scum remover or a mix of ammonia and water (about 1/2 cup of ammonia to a gallon of water). However, be mindful that frequent or excessive use of ammonia may eventually dull your stone's shine.

Vanity Top Surfaces

Vanity tops may benefit from a penetrating sealer to keep them looking flawless. Consult with your installer for the best recommendations. For added protection, a high-quality marble wax or non-yellowing automobile paste wax can be applied to reduce water spotting and maintain a luxurious appearance.

Food Preparation Areas

In areas where food is prepared, a penetrating sealer may also be necessary. Again, consult your installer for advice on the safest products. If you do apply a sealer, ensure it is non-toxic and safe for contact with food. If in doubt, check with the sealer’s manufacturer.

Do's and Don'ts

• Do dust mop floors frequently.
• Do clean surfaces with a neutral stone cleaner.
• Do thoroughly rinse and dry surfaces after cleaning.
• Do blot up spills immediately.
• Do protect floor surfaces with non-slip mats or area rugs and countertop surfaces with coasters, trivets, or placemats.
• Don't use vinegar, lemon juice, or other acidic cleaners on marble, limestone, travertine, or onyx.
• Don't use acid-based cleaners like bathroom, grout, or tile cleaners.
• Don't use abrasive cleaners such as dry cleansers or soft cleansers.
• Don't mix bleach and ammonia, as this combination creates a toxic, lethal gas.