Cleaning natural stone flooring requires special care to maintain its beauty and longevity. Different types of natural stones have unique properties and sensitivities. Here are some general tips for cleaning natural stone flooring:
Regular Sweeping:?Regularly sweep or dust mop your natural stone flooring to prevent dirt, sand, and grit from scratching the surface.
Use Soft Brushes:?When using a vacuum cleaner, ensure it has a soft brush attachment to avoid scratching the stone.
Mild Cleaning Solutions:?Use pH-neutral or mild, stone-specific cleaners. Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the stone's surface.
Damp Mopping:?Use a well-wrung, damp mop with clean water or a stone-specific cleaner. Avoid excessive water, as it can seep into the stone and cause damage over time.
Blot Spills Immediately:?Wipe up spills promptly to prevent them from penetrating the stone and causing stains.
Stain Removal:?For tough stains, create a poultice by mixing baking soda or talc with a stone-safe cleaner to form a paste. Apply the paste to the stain, cover with plastic wrap, and let it sit overnight. Gently remove the paste and rinse.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals:?Do not use ammonia, bleach, vinegar, or citrus-based cleaners on natural stone, as they can etch or discolor the surface.
Sealing:?Depending on the type of stone, consider applying a stone sealer to protect the surface from stains and moisture. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application frequency.
Doormats:?Place doormats at entryways to prevent dirt and debris from being tracked onto the stone floor.
Furniture Pads:?Use furniture pads under the legs of heavy furniture to prevent scratching and indentations.
Avoid Dragging:?Lift heavy objects instead of dragging them across the stone floor to prevent scratches.
Test in an Inconspicuous Area:?Before using any new cleaning product or method, test it in an inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn't damage the stone.
Gentle Scrubbing:?If necessary, use a soft scrub brush for stubborn dirt or grime. Avoid using abrasive scrub pads.
Rinse Thoroughly:?After cleaning, rinse the floor thoroughly with clean water to remove any cleaning residue.
Dry the Floor:?After cleaning, ensure the floor is thoroughly dried to prevent water from seeping into the stone.
Professional Cleaning:?Periodically, consider hiring professionals experienced in natural stone care for deep cleaning, polishing, and restoration.
Remember, the specific care routine may vary based on the type of natural stone you have. Always refer to the manufacturer's guidelines and consult with experts if you're unsure about the best cleaning practices for your particular stone flooring.
If you have more questions about your natural stone?flooring, call our flooring experts today! We proudly serve nationwide with local flooring stores across the U.S., including?Las Vegas, NV,?Houston, TX, and?Scottsdale, AZ.
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