How to Clean and Maintain Your Natural Stone Floor

Natural stone flooring has a unique allure to many home and business owners. Whether it is its ornate veins, natural aesthetic, natural finish, or the fact that it can boost the overall value of a property, natural stone is seen in many homes and businesses nationwide.

Like any other flooring, natural stone requires maintenance. Haphazard care of your natural stone floor can result in scratches, stains, damage, and an overall shorter lifespan. Plus, natural stone is more porous than ceramic, porcelain, and glass, making it succeptable to absorption of harsh chemical cleaners and other spills.

Remove Debris

Using a dry mop or sweep clean dirt and debris from your floor regularly. Dirt and dust can damage your floor by causing scratches. By dry mopping your floor every few days you will be preventing damage and help your floor last longer.

A good way to keep your natural stone floors clean is to mop them. Never use an older or worn vacuum on your stone floors, however, because you could wind up scratching them. Particles and dirt get stuck to the wheels and suction bar of most vacuums, and this can scratch your floors. Keep a vacuum aside to use only on your natural stone floors.

Mopping

You will need to periodically mop your natural stone floor. Remember to keep in mind that harsh cleaners containing acid or bleach will damage your floor. Even using homemade vinegar cleaner will damage sealers and other coatings on your floor. It’s especially important not to use an abrasive cleaner like Ajax.

Instead, use a cleaner specifically designed for cleaning stones. Mix a solution of the cleaner and water according to the manufacturer instructions and gently mop and clean your floors.

Deep Cleaning

Every so often, you’ll need to deep clean your stone floor. Use a heavy-duty stone cleaner to remove any wax, grime, or grease from your floors. Apply the solution according to the directions and use a soft bristle brush or broom to clean your floors.

Follow these tips to properly maintain your natural stone floor:

• Use coasters under all glasses, particularly those containing alcohol or citrus juices.
• While many stone tiles can withstand heat, the use of trivets or mats is recommended.
• Dust mop interior floors frequently using a clean non-treated dry dust mop. Sand, dirt and grit are abrasive and can damage natural stone.
• If vacuum cleaners are used, be sure the metal or plastic attachments or the wheels are not worn as they can scratch the surface of some stones.
• Blot the spill with a paper towel immediately. Don’t wipe the area –it it will spread the spill. Flush the area with water and mild soap and rinse several times. Dry the area thoroughly with a soft cloth. Repeat as necessary.