Cleaning Products for Natural Stone

Natural stone has become a popular surface material in many new and remodeled homes. Lustrous, tough, and beautiful, natural stone also requires some extra care to ensure it keeps its good looks. Certain acids commonly found in many foods and drinks can dull the luster of natural stone and may even etch the surface. Protect your natural stone surfaces by always placing beverage glasses on a coaster, use a placemat under dishes and cookware that might scratch the surface and put hot dishes on a trivet.

Floors

Keep natural stone floors looking great by dust mopping with a clean, dry dustmop.

Bath

Use a mild solution of ½ cup ammonia to 1 gallon of water to remove soap scum from natural stone bath and shower enclosures.

Vanity

Natural stone bathroom vanity surfaces are frequently coated with a penetrating sealer that may require special care. Marble wax can generally be used on these surfaces.

Siliceous Stone

Natural siliceous stone surfaces such as granite, slate and bluestone can be cleaned with mild acidic cleaning solutions.

Calcareous Stone

Natural calcareous stone surfaces such as marble, travertine and onyx should not be cleaned with acidic cleansers. Instead clean with a mild dishwashing liquid and polish with a soft, dry cloth.

Warning

Never use scouring powders on natural stone surfaces as this may scratch the finish.

Resources

• The Marble Institute Homepage