Six tips for maintaining natural stone
Natural stone tiles, such as marble, travertine, and slate, are a popular choice for bathroom floors and shower walls due to their beauty and durability. However, they require regular maintenance to keep them looking their best. Here are some tips on how to maintain natural stone tile in the shower and on floors.
Clean up spills immediately
Natural stone tiles are porous and can be damaged by spills of acidic liquids, such as vinegar, wine, and lemon juice. These spills can etch the surface of the stone, causing dull spots and discoloration. To prevent damage, clean up spills immediately using a soft cloth and a pH-neutral stone cleaner.
Use a pH-neutral cleaner
When cleaning natural stone tiles, it's important to use a pH-neutral cleaner. Acidic cleaners, such as vinegar and lemon juice, can damage the stone, while alkaline cleaners, such as bleach and ammonia, can discolor the stone. pHneutral cleaners are gentle and effective at removing dirt and grime without damaging the stone.
Seal the stone
Sealing natural stone tiles is an essential step in maintaining their beauty and durability. Sealing the stone creates a protective barrier that repels water and prevents stains from penetrating the surface. Sealers should be applied once a year or as recommended by the manufacturer.
Use a squeegee
After taking a shower, use a squeegee to remove excess water from the natural stone tiles. Water left on the surface of the stone can promote the growth of mold and mildew, which can be difficult to remove. Using a squeegee helps to prevent water damage and keeps the stone looking its best.
Avoid abrasive cleaners and tools
Avoid using abrasive cleaners and tools, such as steel wool and abrasive brushes, on natural stone tiles. These cleaners and tools can scratch the surface of the stone, causing damage that is difficult to repair. Instead, use a soft cloth or a non-abrasive sponge to clean the stone.
Regularly reseal the grout
Grout is the material used to fill the gaps between the natural stone tiles. It's important to regularly reseal the grout to prevent water from penetrating the surface and causing damage. Grout should be resealed once a year or as recommended by the manufacturer.In conclusion, natural stone tiles are a beautiful and durable choice for bathroom floors and shower walls. To maintain their beauty and durability, clean up spills immediately, use a pH-neutral cleaner, seal the stone, use a squeegee, avoid abrasive cleaners and tools, and regularly reseal the grout. By following these tips, you can keep your natural stone tiles looking their best for years to come.
