Daily Cleaning and General Maintenance

For everyday cleaning, simply wipe your stone surfaces with a clean, damp cloth. This is usually enough to remove dust and light surface dirt. If you’re using a vacuum cleaner, make sure it has a soft brush attachment to prevent scratching—especially on polished or softer stones like marble or limestone.
When a deeper clean is needed, use a soft cloth or mop along with warm water and a mild, pH-neutral detergent. It’s crucial to avoid any acidic cleaners such as vinegar, lemon juice, or general-purpose cleaners that contain harsh chemicals. These can etch or dull the surface of your stone. As a rule of thumb, always use products with a pH of 7 or above.

Protection from Scratches and Stains

Natural stone, while durable, can be sensitive to abrasion. Grit, sand, and small stones can scratch the surface—particularly in high-traffic areas like entryways or hallways. To protect your flooring, use entrance mats both inside and outside exterior doors. These trap dirt and small particles before they can reach your stone tiles.

In colder climates, be especially careful during winter months. Salt used for de-icing can be extremely corrosive, especially to porous stones like limestone. Make sure to remove shoes when entering the house and clean any salt residue promptly to prevent long-term damage.

Sealing Natural Stone Tiles

Most natural stones are porous and can absorb liquids, leading to staining and discoloration. To prevent this, sealing your stone tiles is essential. A quality stone sealer acts as a barrier, reducing the tile’s absorbency and protecting against spills, moisture, and dirt.

Applying a sealer is a simple process—just wipe it onto a clean surface with a soft cloth or sponge. One litre of sealer typically covers between 12–15 square metres, depending on the stone’s porosity.

How often you need to reseal will depend on the type of stone, the area of application (kitchen, bathroom, outdoor space), and how much traffic it gets. As a general guideline:

Low-traffic areas may only need resealing every 3–5 years.

High-traffic floors or kitchen countertops might require resealing every 1–2 years.

Outdoor stone may need more frequent sealing due to exposure to the elements.

To check if resealing is needed, sprinkle a few drops of water on the surface. If the stone darkens or absorbs the water within a few minutes, it’s time to reapply the sealer.

Final Tips

• Always clean spills immediately to avoid staining.
• Use coasters and mats under glasses, plates, and toiletries, especially on marble or limestone surfaces.
• Avoid dragging heavy furniture or objects across the floor.
• Regularly dust and clean grout lines, as dirt can accumulate and affect the overall look of your tiled area.

By following these simple but important maintenance tips, you can ensure that your natural stone tiles stay stunning and structurally sound for years to come. With a bit of regular care and the right products, natural stone can remain one of the most elegant and long-lasting materials in your home.

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