How to Clean Natural Stone Surfaces
It is more important now than ever to ensure that all of your stone surfaces - especially those in your kitchen and other high traffic areas in your home - are cleaned properly and on a regular basis.
As Canada’s leading stone fabricator, we have put together a few tips on how to keep your natural stone surfaces clean and looking great for years to come.
Kill Germs with Soap and Water
You often don’t need chemical cleaners in order to clean your natural stone surfaces. In most cases, warm water and soap will do the trick.
Wash your natural stone surfaces regularly with fresh warm water and a clean, non-abrasive cloth. Adding a neutral (pH balanced) cleaner will help to remove topical dirt and grime, avoiding detergents that can be abrasive and contain chemicals high in acid or alkaline.
For additional cleaning, you can use a multipurpose granite cleaner that often comes in an easy to use spray bottle.. To use the cleaner, you should spray it on the surface and wipe it dry using a non-abrasive cloth. These types of cleaners are readily available at big box hardware/supply stores.
Know Which Ingredients to Avoid
Everyday household cleaners can damage granite, marble, and other types of stone. Vinegar, while effective at killing some pathogens, can also cause etching in natural stone and should be avoided.
You also want to avoid detergents that can be abrasive and contain chemicals high in acid or alkaline, as these can damage your natural stone surfaces.
Discourage Bacteria on the Surface
To minimize contamination on your countertops, always use cutting boards and clean the countertops before preparing food.
Avoid leaving other household items or personal items on your countertops, such as purses, wallets, keys, cell phones, etc., as these can often be carriers of bacteria and can contaminante your countertop.
Make Sure the Stone is Sealed
Even though natural stone is resistant to bacteria, you should still maintain a good seal on the surface.
Sealing your stone helps it resist absorption of liquids and developing stubborn stains.
Luckily, you can apply sealer regularly on your own. Here’s how to do it:
Choose a high-quality stone sealer like Granite Gold Sealer®
Apply directly to the stone in three-foot sections
Buff the sealer into the stone immediately using a soft cloth
Continue buffing until the surface is dry before moving on to the next section
Repeat the process until you have completed your full countertop. You can then rest assured knowing that your natural stone countertop has an extra layer of protection against dirt, grime, bacteria, and general wear and tear.
Conclusion
There are many reasons why you should actively clean and protect your natural stone countertops. By following these tips, you can help ensure that you get years of enjoyment out of your countertops, while keeping your loved ones safe and healthy.