Although stone countertops would seem to have a durable hard surface, you must take care not to seriously damage the stone surfaces in your home by using the wrong cleaning products.
You might not have thought so, but your common, everyday cleaning products may be doing more harm then good to surfaces such as marble, travertine, granite, slate, and other natural stone types frequently used in homes. This is because these types of surfaces are actually extremely porous.
A common misconception is that the polished shine on a stone’s surface means that it is sealed. However, irreparable damage can be caused by liquids such as juice or ink that seep into the surface and stain the stone.
To prevent and protect against stain threats to your natural stone surfaces you’ll need to use the correct products. This, along with regular cleaning, will help to keep your investment in countertops and floors paying off and looking new for years to come.
Protection begins with treating natural stone surfaces with a sealer which will also keep it looking new. Although stone surfaces are commonly pre-sealed, it usually wears away within one to five years, depending upon the amount of use and wear.
When cleaning, most people use general all- purpose cleaners on natural stone, including disinfecting wipes or glass cleaners. These products can deteriorate the stone’s sealer and lead to surface erosion. It’s better to use cleaner specially formulated to eliminate residue from oils, food spills, and abrasive chemicals. After a spill, eliminate as much of it as possible without allowing spread by using a gentle sponge, then spray the area with a cleaner.
Daily use usually causes a loss of shine and luster to your countertops and/or floors. If you’d like to restore their polished color and depth use an enhancer to bring back their beauty.