Natural stone is built to last, but how it’s looked after makes all the difference to how it looks. These ten habits keep marble, limestone, travertine, slate and other stone floors in great condition.
Sweep or vacuum regularly
Grit is the enemy of stone – it scratches and dulls the surface. Use a soft brush, or a vacuum with the beater bar switched off.
Use a pH-neutral stone cleaner
Harsh or acidic chemicals damage the surface and strip the sealer. A cleaner made for natural stone is all you need.
Wipe up spills promptly
Stone is porous and can absorb liquids, leading to stains – blot spills as soon as they happen.
Put mats at every entrance
They catch most of the grit before it reaches the floor, especially in busy hallways and kitchens.
Fit felt pads to furniture
Felt pads on chair and table legs prevent scratches when furniture is moved.
Avoid abrasive cleaners
Scouring pads, creams and powders scratch and dull the stone.
Keep the floor sealed
Most natural stone benefits from periodic sealing to resist stains. How often depends on the stone and how the room is used.
Mop damp, not wet
Too much water can soak into the stone and grout. A well wrung-out mop is enough.
Protect against heavy impacts
Dropped pans and heavy objects can chip or crack stone tiles – take care in kitchens especially.
Keep an eye on its condition
Check now and then for worn areas, loose grout, dull patches or stains, and deal with them early before they get worse.
Know your stone
Different stones need slightly different care. Marble, limestone and travertine are calcium-based and sensitive to acids; slate and granite are tougher but still need the right cleaner and a good seal. If you’re not sure what your floor is, or what’s safe to use on it, just ask – we’re always happy to advise.
Even with the best routine, dirt eventually builds up in the grout lines and texture where everyday cleaning can’t reach. That’s where a professional deep clean comes in – see our stone floor cleaning, polishing and restoration service.
Want your stone floor back to its best?
Book a free survey – we’ll assess the floor and show you the result on a test patch first.