How to Keep Your Stone Counter Beautiful for Years to Come!
Normal care for stone is generally easier than for any other surface with proper care and precautions.
Use coasters under all glasses, particularly those containing alcohol or citrus juices. Many common foods and drinks contain acids that will etch or dull the surface of many stones. Do not place hot items directly on the stone surface. Use trivets or mats under hot dishes, and placemats under china, ceramics, silver, or other objects that can scratch the surface.
Cleaning Procedures:
Dust mop interior floors frequently using a clean, non-treated dry dust mop. Sand, dirt and grit do the most damage to natural stone surfaces due to their abrasiveness. Mats or area rugs inside and outside an entrance will help to minimize the sand, dirt, and grit that will scratch the stone floor. Be sure that the underside of the mat or rug is a non-slip surface. Normally, it will take a person about eight steps on a floor surface to remove sand or dirt from the bottom of their shoes.
Do not use vacuum cleaners that are worn. The metal or plastic attachments on the wheels may scratch the surface.
Clean stone surfaces with a few drops of neutral cleaner, stone soap, or a mild liquid dishwashing detergent and warm water. Use a clean rag mop on floors, and a soft cloth for other surfaces for best results. Too much cleaner or soap may leave a film and cause streaks. Do not use products that contain lemon, vinegar or other acids on
marble or other calcareous stones. Rinse the surface thoroughly after washing with the soap solution, and dry with a soft cloth. Change the rinse water frequently. Do not use scouring powders or creams because these products contain abrasives that may scratch the stone.
In the bath or other wet area: Soap scum can be minimized by using a squeegee after each use. to remove soap scum, use a non-acidic soap scum remover or a solution of ammonia and water (about 1/2 cup ammonia to a gallon of water). Frequent or over-use of an ammonia solution may eventually dull the surface of the stone.
Vanity tops: Vanity tops may need to have a penetrating sealer applied. Check with All Kitchen & Bath for recommendations. A good quality marble wax or non-yellowing automobile paste wax can be applied to minimize water spotting.
In food preparation areas: Your stone may need to have a penetrating sealer applied. Check with All Kitchen & Bath for recommendations.
If a sealer is applied: Be sure that it is non-toxic and safe for use on food preparation surfaces. If there is a question, check with the sealer manufacturer.
In outdoor pool, patio, or hot tub areas: Flush with clear water and use mild bleach solution to remove algae or moss.
