Mildew Removal in Limestone

Limestone should be cleaned regularly with an approved natural stone cleaner.

Limestone is a natural stone that consists largely of calcium. Limestone -- such as marble and granite -- is commonly used to create counter tops and stone flooring. Natural stone like limestone is typically an expensive material that, with the proper care, will last a lifetime. Unfortunately, people often do not know how to properly care for limestone when problems, such as mildew, arise. Products like lemon juice or vinegar can damage your limestone beyond repair.

Things You'll Need

• Bucket
• Oxygen bleach
• Wooden spoon
• Sponge
• Cloth
• Towels

Instructions

1. Fill a bucket with 1 gallon of warm water. Add 1/4 cup of oxygen bleach to the solution and mix well with a wooden spoon.

2. Saturate a sponge in the mixture. Hold the sponge over the bucket and wring out the excess liquid. You want the sponge to be damp but not dripping wet.

3. Wipe the mildew off the limestone with the sponge. When the sponge becomes dry or dirty, saturate it in the mixture. Continue scrubbing the limestone gently with the sponge until you have removed all mildew.

4. Dampen a clean cloth in cool water. Wipe the bleach-water mixture off the limestone with the cloth. Do not allow the mixture to dry on the limestone.

5. Wipe the limestone dry with several towels.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not use abrasive cleaners or acidic products -- such as vinegar -- on limestone. In addition, ammonia will dull limestone finish and should not be used to clean natural stone.

• Never mix bleach with ammonia or products containing ammonia. The resulting fumes are toxic.

References

• World Floor Covering Association: Stone Care
• Ask The Builder: Limestone Countertops
• IRG: About Stone
• Housekeeping Channel: Understanding Natural Stone - and How to Clean It