Natural stone is a beautiful, durable, and affordable option for countertops. They provide a warm look that is easy on the eyes, especially when contrasted with modern appliances and cabinets.
They also come in a variety of designs, colours, and finishes which you can choose from depending on what you prefer. Some examples include marble, travertine, limestone, onyx, granite, and slate. You can choose the type of stone you like to use but make sure it compliments your appliances and cabinets as well.
Whatever kind of stone you choose for your bathroom or kitchen countertops, you’ll find it beautiful and notice its unique character. It can also add up to the aesthetics or beauty of your home. But due to the stone’s nature and its property, there may be some effects from time to time as you try to clean it and maintain its beauty.
Here are seven tips for cleaning natural stone countertops to keep them looking their best.
1. Know Your Stone
Natural stone is beautiful, but sometimes, it requires special care and cleaning methods. Before you start cleaning your countertops, know the type of stone you have and what care it needs. Check the care guide from the manufacturer or do a little research online.
Different types of stone need different types of cleaning. Granite, for example, can be easily scratched, so you’ll want to use soft cloths and pads when cleaning. Marble, on the other hand, is a softer kind of stone and can be damaged by scrubbing and scouring pads.
Knowing the kinds of natural stones that you have will help you find the right cleaning products and appropriate methods to use when cleaning them.
2. Use The Right Tools
Traditional cleaning methods that use abrasive materials or chemicals can damage or scratch your natural stone countertop. You should use soft sponges and pads, microfibre cloths, or special stone cleaning pads to clean your natural stone countertop. Also, make sure to avoid using steel wool and scrubbing pads.
If you’re using a cleaning agent, be sure to choose one designed for natural stone. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using a natural stone cleaner. Depending on what type of stone you have, you may want to mix the cleaner with water before applying it to the countertop.
3. Don’t Use Harsh Cleaners
Don’t use harsh cleaners like bleach, scouring powders, or strong chemicals like acid or ammonia to clean your stone countertops. They will damage the surface and can cause discoloration that is difficult to remove. Residue from cleaners and soap will build up, causing your kitchen top to look dull and streaky. Over time, this buildup will cause stone countertops to look darker and less clean.
Following the cleaning instructions that come with the stone cleaner will help you maintain the natural look of your natural stone countertops. This way, you’ll avoid discoloring or damaging your countertops.
4. Soap And Water Mixture
Soap and warm water mixture are all you need to clean natural stone. Avoid using strong soaps and detergents, because they can leave a residue that can cause stains.
Dirt, food particles, and other contaminants attract microorganisms that can cause stains on the stone. So, clean your countertops as soon as they become dirty to avoid having stains.
Using a soft sponge or microfiber cloth will work well when you’re cleaning your stone. Avoid using paper towels because they can leave fibers behind that can get stuck in the kitchen top.
5. Dry Immediately
In addition to regular cleaning, you want to make sure that you’re drying your stone thoroughly as well. You can do this by using a dry microfiber or cotton cloth.
Dull, dirty water can leave a stain on your countertop surface. So be sure to dry the countertop immediately after cleaning it to avoid water stains and mineral deposits. This is more of an issue with softer rocks like limestone or marble, as opposed to harder stones like granite.
Drying your natural stone countertop will help you maintain that clean and beautiful look of your countertop.
6. Vinegar And Water
If your stone has become dull or has a cloudy appearance, you might need to buff it to shine it up again. You want to mix vinegar and water in a spray bottle and sprinkle the mixture on the stone. This will break down the buildup on your working surface and help it to shine again.
You want to let the mixture sit for a few minutes before scrubbing it off with a soft sponge. If you notice, your natural stone has lost its luster and looks cloudy. Or, in case of a tougher stain, you can easily remove it with a mixture of water and vinegar.
7. Seal It Up
If your natural stone countertops are regularly cleaned and dried, they may not need to be sealed. But if you are concerned they may still be susceptible to damage; you can seal them with a natural stone sealer.
A sealer will help protect your stone from stains and discolouration, as well as protect it from any cleaning chemicals you may use. The sealer can also make your natural stone countertops look better and last longer. It will also keep them from absorbing any odours.
Wrap Up
Natural stone countertops are a beautiful and durable option for your kitchen or bathroom. Cleaning them properly and often will help prevent any damage and keep them looking their best.
The first thing is to understand your stone. This is the first step toward knowing how to best care for your countertops. Stay away from using abrasives and harsh cleaners because they can cause more harm than good to your chosen natural stone. Check the care guide from the manufacturer or do a little research online. You want to clean the surface after use and dry it soon after. Always use a soft cloth when cleaning.
The abovementioned cleaning tips for your natural stone countertops can help you maintain their natural beauty and durability.
