As specialists in natural stone cleaning, sealing, and repair, the professionals at Tru-Clean Surface Care are often asked by homeowners for tips to help keep their natural stone floors or countertops looking their very best. As specialists in granite, travertine, marble, and limestone cleaning, sealing, and repair, we know a thing or two about maintaining the beauty of natural stone surfaces.
Natural stone is easy to maintain once it has been professionally cleaned and sealed.
Before we delve into the cleaning process, let’s look at the essential tools and materials you’ll need to keep your natural stone surfaces spotless:
NOTE: Do not use cleaning products not approved for natural stone. Natural stone is made of minerals, and some cleaners contain a cleaning agent that dissolves minerals in hard water. These cleaners can cause streaks on stone surfaces over time because they also dissolve minerals in the stone.
- Soft-bristle brush: Opt for a brush with gentle bristles to avoid scratching the surface.
- Microfiber cloth: These lint-free cloths are ideal for cleaning and polishing natural stone.
- pH-neutral stone cleaner: Choose a cleaner specifically formulated for natural stone to prevent damage caused by harsh chemicals such as Crystal Clean.
- Distilled water: Hard water contains minerals that can leave deposits on your stone, so using distilled water is recommended.
- Stone sealer: Professionally applied by Tru-Clean Surface Care, professional-grade penetrating natural stone sealer helps protect the stone and repel stains making clean-up a breeze.
Step-by-Step Natural Stone Cleaning Process
To ensure effective cleaning without compromising the integrity of your natural stone, follow these step-by-step instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Surface
Before cleaning, remove any loose debris or dirt from the surface using a soft brush or a dry microfiber cloth. This prevents particles from scratching the stone during the cleaning process.
Step 2: Clean With A Natural Stone Cleaner
Until recently, Crystal Clean, the product we use and recommend, was not available to the general public and is the “go-to” cleaning product by stone restoration companies, fabricators, and natural stone installers.
Crystal Clean is an easy-to-use daily cleaner. Its pH-neutral formula is safe for any natural stone surface. Crystal Clean is a rinse-less cleaner that evaporates quickly and will not streak or leave water spots.
Use Crystal Clean with confidence on your granite countertop, travertine floor, marble shower, or any natural stone. It also works great on stainless steel and glass, making it an excellent, and inexpensive, all-purpose cleaner.
Added sealant protection is what makes Crystal Clean truly unique. It contains an advanced fluoropolymer protectant. Every time you clean, you are sealing and protecting your stone surface.
Step 3: Apply the Cleaner
Using a clean microfiber cloth or a mop, spray the cleaner on the natural stone surface. Work in small sections, ensuring even coverage. Allow the cleaner to sit for a few minutes to break down dirt and grime.
Step 4: Gently Scrub the Surface
Using a soft-bristle brush or microfiber cloth, gently agitate the surface in circular motions. Pay extra attention to areas with visible stains or buildup. Avoid using abrasive scrubbing pads or harsh brushes, as they can cause scratches.
Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly
Once you’ve scrubbed the entire surface, thoroughly rinse it with clean distilled water, or if you’re using Crystal Clean, simply wipe dry with a microfiber cloth. Make sure to remove all traces of the cleaner to prevent any residue from dulling the stone’s appearance.
Preventive Measures for Natural Stone Maintenance
While regular cleaning is essential, adopting preventive measures can significantly reduce the need for intensive cleaning and maintenance. Here are some tips to help you keep your natural stone looking its best:
Use coasters and placemats: Place coasters or placemats under glasses, plates, and other objects to prevent direct contact with the stone surface.
Clean up spills promptly: Wipe up any spills immediately to prevent stains from setting into the stone.
Avoid harsh chemicals: Steer clear of acidic or abrasive cleaners, as they can etch or scratch the stone. Stick to pH-neutral cleaners like Crystal Clean, specifically formulated for natural stone.
Use doormats: Place doormats at entrances to prevent dirt, grit, and sand from being tracked onto your stone floors.
Regularly dust, vacuum, or sweep: Regularly wipe down countertops and sweep or vacuum your natural stone floors to remove loose dirt and debris that can cause scratches over time.
Tru-Clean Surface Care Natural Stone Services Throughout SW Florida
We hope you’ve found these tips helpful, and if we can ever answer any questions, please give us a call any time.
Tru-Clean Surface Care is a Certified Partner with the prestigious Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), a Stone PRO Professional, and a surpHaces Certified PRO Partner. We are A+ Rated with the Better Business Bureau and an eight-year-in-a-row winner of the coveted Angie’s List Super Service Award. Our cleaning solutions and services are allergen-free, food safe, and will not harm pets or infants.
For more information about Tru-Clean Surface Care, visit us online at https://trucleansurfacecare.com/ or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/TruCleanSurfaceCareFL/ You can also give us a call at 239-541-4888 – Cape Coral and Lee County, 239-206-1935 – Bonita Springs, Naples, and Marco Island, or 941-621-2198 – Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte, Florida.
You are now equipped with the knowledge and techniques to clean and maintain your natural stone surfaces effectively. By following our comprehensive guide, you can ensure that your stone retains its beauty, durability, and elegance for years to come.
Remember, proper care and maintenance are key to preserving the timeless allure of natural stone. Should you ever require professional assistance or have any further questions, feel free to reach out to our professionals at Tru-Clean Surface Care anytime.