how to clean natural stone countertops
how to clean natural stone countertops
Clear the countertop and wipe to remove loose debris. Exterior Products Only Keep your natural stone countertops looking like new by knowing how to maintain them on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis. Scrubbing sponges can cause small scratches, so it is best to avoid them when cleaning your natural stone countertops. I abuse them and they're just now beginning to develop a patina, with slight weathering and chips that I love.I suggest French limestone for kitchens, too. They're beautiful too, but require so much maintenance and constant mineral oil treatments, they're not practical. can cause scratches or etching (dull spots). Oils are less of a problem, once the stone has been sealed, and kids with sticky fingers are no problem at all. Don't take advice from a retailer who has a vested interest in selling one particular product. Are honed or polished surfaces easier to maintain? Phone:(913) 894-0288 Check out our article about the 7 worst cleaners to use on granite countertops. Dry with another clean microfiber cloth. Natural stone is a stunning option for a countertop, and as long as the proper tips for cleaning stone countertops are followed, it will remain looking like new for years to come. With some simple care and maintenance, you can preserve your natural stone surfaces beauty for generations to come. Marble is more porous than granite, but tougher than you'd think. You can remove nail polish or dried paint by using a putty knife. If stains do occur, remove them with limestone poultice.Spread thick layer of poultice over stain using a plastic putty knife.Wait 48 to 72 hours for the poultice to absorb the stain, then wipe the area clean.4. Daily cleaning should be done with a gentle, stone-safe cleaner. People do, but I recommend using professionals who know which sealer to use on your particular stone. They can also strip away and damage the stones seal. Coffee, red wines, certain types of oils, and acidic fluids such as vinegar or soft drinks can stain or damage natural stone. However, since it is a natural, sometimes-porous substance, you need to be very careful with how you clean it. You can apply these tips to all natural-stone countertops, from granite and marble to quartzite and soapstone. Clean your natural stone backsplash and countertops regularly with a stone soap, neutral cleanser, or mild dishwashing liquid. Many busy homeowners opt for quartz because it is virtually maintenance-free. If they are dirty, it is a good time to clean them. Rinse with a damp microfiber cloth and then dry. But what if we told you that it doesnt have to be difficult? Rock Doctors formula doesnt contain any of the above ingredients, and the cleaner was made to use on porous natural stone surfaces, so you know your counters will be protected. For extra protection, Stonetech also offers BulletProof sealer, a unique extra strength stain protector for natural stone, protecting surfaces for up to five years. Ideally, you should clean your natural stone countertops after preparing food, cooking, or using them for any other reason. Keep in mind that no sealer will make your natural stone backsplash or countertop stain-proof, but these products can make your countertops more stain-resistant. They are very abrasive and may scratch your stone countertops. Also, keep Drano, nail polish remover, and any other household acids off the counter. Maintaining Your Beautiful Stone Countertops. Clean up any spills, especially of acidic food, right away to prevent staining. Call (936) 856-6342. A few proper precautions will keep your countertops looking brand new for years to come: Wipe down your countertops every day with a gentle cleaning chemical. You'll know it's sealed properly when water beads and forms droplets on the surface. Stick with gentle cleaners to keep your natural stone in excellent condition. What other kinds of stains can I remove myself? 1. To remove stains from limestone, apply the same paste as you do with granite and marble. Never use abrasive cleaners or scrubby sponges, and avoid acidic cleaners (e.g. But if you dont cook often, you can try weekly cleanings. Rock Doctor Granite and Quartz Cleaner is the perfect solution to keeping your natural stone countertops clean and protected from damage. Hearst Magazine Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Less expensive than stone, butcher block has been having a design moment for a while now. The best thing about quartz is it rarely stainsyet, its still not stain proof, especially with fruit juices, tea, coffee, or wine. Allow us to show you how to clean granite countertops now! Rinse thoroughly with plain, cool water. Using the wrong cleaning products on natural stone (ex: granite, marble, etc.) PowerPoint nights are the new fun way to party togethereven when you're far apart. We have many options with which to choose and have quick turnaround times. You can do this by pouring a small spot of water, around 3 inches in diameter, onto the stone in various locations, and letting it sit for 30 minutes before wiping away. Make sure you know the type of maintenance your stone surfaces require and how much time you can dedicate to them. Most importantly, never place anything straight from the oven onto a natural stone counter! In general, avoid abrasive scrubbers, like steel wool, and skip the bleach, which may discolor the surface. You will see a lot of well-intended information online when you search how to care for natural stone countertops. Dont wipe it upthat will only spread the stain further. Interior & Exterior Products Copyright 2021. Copyright 2022 This Old House Ventures, LLC. The same goes for everyday cleaners StoneTech is a good one, but there are slews on the market. Its important to avoid dragging things across your countertop so you do not cause permanent damage. With so many chemicals that can potentially ruin your stone countertop, it can be intimidating to try to clean up a stain. These materials can cause micro-scratches over time that accumulate to show themselves as a general dulling effect on the surface. This list has you covered, no matter how you're feeling. Finish with a clean, microfiber cloth or paper towel for a streak-free, beautiful shine. Even something as innocent as cooking oil can leave a stain when left sitting too long and penetrates the surface. However, quartz countertops are not indestructible and you should never use strong chemicals or solvents on them. If you are interested in purchasing a stone polish we recommend the Granite Gold Polish which is available at our showrooms located in Swansboro, New Bern and Morehead City for purchase. Real Simple is part of the Meredith Home Group. This sealer will protect the stone from damaging chemicals as well as liquids seeping beneath the surface, leaving a stain. Always rinse off the surface after using the soap solution and then dry it with a gentle cloth. Bar Keepers friend is , BKF Institutional MORE Spray + Foam Cleanser, 1882 The Gilded Age and Bar Keepers Friend, 5 Reasons Bar Keepers Friend Is an Exceptional Value, 7 Things You Wouldnt Think to Clean with Bar Keepers Friend. Wash the area several times with mild soap and warm water. You could also dull the finish of the stone using these products or any products containing these ingredients. Use coasters, trivets, and cutting boards to prevent staining, scorching, and etching. Natural stone is one of the most gorgeous options for countertops. These days, natural stone countertops are highly durable and require very little maintenance. These cleaners are made to be gentle, yet effective, and come in different varieties depending on the type of stone countertop you have. New Bern, NC 28562 (252) 635-1059, 4862 Arendell Street Morehead City, NC 28584 (252) 222-4565. Be sure to wipe away spills immediately! Although Bar Keepers Friend Granite & Stone Cleaner & Polish is safe to use on most natural stone, always test it on a small inconspicuous part of your countertop before cleaning the entire surface. Avoid setting hot cookware directly on countertops, and place a silicone mat beneath your coffee maker to protect the counter from heat and coffee spills. Real Simple may receive compensation for some links to products and services in this email on this website. To disinfect granite, you can spritz the surface with a 1:1 solution of isopropyl alcohol and water, then wipe with a damp cloth and dry. At Onslow Stoneworks we recommend using Granite Gold. Note, once the stain is removed, the area will need to be resealed to prevent future staining. I only recommend them if it's a no-cook situation. Milford Showroom & Stoneyard It is important to know that this not a permanent solution and needs to be maintained and reapplied. You should also implement the use of a coaster or placemats, for this reason, this will help you avoid that dreaded ring under a glass that can leave a stain or damage. For some households, this means that countertops should be cleaned daily. If all else fails, get in touch with your countertop contractor for help. Luckily, there are safe solutions for almost every type of stain you will get on a countertop. The safest, most reliable way to clean your stone countertops is with the cleaner your stone supplier recommends. In addition to preventative maintenance and regular cleaning, granite and other natural stone countertops need to be sealed annually to remain stain-resistant. The Granite Gold Daily Cleaner has a pH neutral, non-toxic, safe for use on all food-prep surfaces and doesnt damage the protective seal! If spills occur, clean them up immediately by blotting, not wiping to avoid spreading the mess. When she isnt writing about her love forBar Keepers Friend (or wiping down her stainless steel sinks), you can find Felicia sparring at her muay thai gym, doodling in her sketchbook, or watching silly cat videos on TikTok. Its also important to not use abrasive cleaning materials such as brillo pads or steel wool, no matter how tough a stain might be. Along with protecting your granite countertops from extreme heat, its incredibly important to keep them clean. How to Clean Quartz, Marble, and Granite Countertops: Less is more! It doesnt get much easier than that! Wipe with a clean damp cloth, and then dry. We put down a few layers of cheesecloth soaked in water and a powder called whiting. Using a buffing powder or solution specially designed for natural stone, gently buff the area with a soft cloth or buffing pad. You may need to use a cleaner to remove stains and grime. Since natural stone can be easily damaged by acid, oil, and moisture, it is imperative that you are using a safe cleaning product on your natural stone countertops. |. Intermountain Stone and Marble Company has been in Utah since 1954, and we continue to provide the residents of Salt Lake City and surrounding areas with the highest quality stone products available. Do not wipe up the spill because that will cause it to spread. They're almost impervious and indestructible. While granite is one of the most durable material options on the market, it isnt invincible to chipping and scratching. For particularly deep or extensive scratches, get in touch with your countertop provider and avoid using that part of the counter until its fully repaired. If liquids sit on a stone that is poorly sealed, they will penetrate the surface, leaving a stain that can be difficult to lift. Natural stone countertops are durable, unique, and a lovely addition to any home. When it comes to cleaning natural stone, the gentler the materials you use are, the better your results will be. Don't use any acidic cleaner (lemon juice/vinegar/bleach) on these surfaces because it can create etching that dulls the surface over time. Prevention is one of the best ways to care for your natural stone countertops. The water test will help you determine the integrity of your seal. Common household spills that come from wine, coffee, soda and citrus can cause etching in the surface if left to sit. the most common types of natural stone countertops, The Top 5 Bathroom Remodel Ideas Trending Now, Selecting The Perfect Natural Stone For Your Outdoor Kitchen. If you are looking for more countertop information or design tips, check out our blog! However, simple upkeep can extend the lifespan of your surfaces and keep them functional for years to come. With Rock Doctors cleaner, you shake, spray, and wipe clean. Spray product across the surface; allow cleaner to stand for up to one minute if surface has moderate to heavier soils, then use a soft dry towel to wipe away cleaner in a circular motion. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. It turns out that the safest way to clean most countertops is to use supplies you likely already have in your kitchenand stick to the recommended cleaners for that particular surface. It's definitely not something you want to use as a cutting board or let water sit on indefinitely, but with proper care, it lasts. About the Author Felicia Savage is a content strategist, agile marketing enthusiast, and Digital Marketing Manager at Bar Keepers Friend. For any stubborn stuck-on messes, make a paste out of baking soda combined with a little hot water. Keep water away from the seams to avoid warping or swelling of the substrate underneath the laminate. How to Install a Butcher Block Countertop, 15 Beautiful Kitchen Countertop Ideas and Designs. to see what a completed kitchen with natural stone countertops could look like! Wipe up spills and drips immediately to prevent staining.3. Plus, it's heat safeand it's even possible for savvy DIYers tomake their own concrete countertops. "My husband is a wonderful cook, but he leaves everything out as he putters around the kitchen. Well also go over how to clean granite and stone countertops. RELATED:6 Things That Are Naturally Antibacterial to Safely Disinfect Your Home. Simply follow the instructions for your particular sealer as well as any safety precautions like wearing gloves and/or goggles. For these stains, use baking soda and water and rub it in with a soft cloth before they have a chance to settle in. Wipe it down with another damp cloth and then dry completely. You can also spray hairspray onto the marking, let it soak in, and gently pat it with a soft cloth. There's a Name for ThatHere Are 8 Ways You Can Break Through It. You should also use a soft cloth to wipe down your countertop. To remove a stain, begin by clearing the area and blot up the staining material. Rinse with a damp cloth and then buff dry, moving in the direction of the grain. Get the latest This Old House news, trusted tips, tricks, and DIY Smarts projects from our expertsstraight to your inbox. The color is intense creamy-gold and there is veining. Lets learn more about cleaning natural stone countertops. 2016 Intermountain Stone & Marble Company | All Right Reserved, 3 Reasons to Opt for a Marble Fireplace Surround, 5 Advantages of Adding Granite Countertops to Your Home, 5 Ways You Could Accidentally Be Damaging Your Stone Countertops. Acidic cleaning solutions such as vinegar or bathtub cleaner could break down the sealant and cause significant damage to the stone underneath. Actually, black is the hardest to maintain in any stone or finish, polished or honed. For the best results, invest in a high-quality version from a trusted manufacturer, which will still be more affordable than most real stone. Additionally, you shouldnt store or set bottled cooking oil on the counter, as this can cause damage as well. The tile grout was ruined and had to be redone, but we managed to poultice out the stains on the counter. For everyday wear-and-tear, buff away small scratches with superfine dry steel wool called "grade 0000." This can include sealing the stone, which adds a level of stain resistance to the surface (sealed stone is still not stainproof). Unlike quartz which is a nonporous material, granite, marble and other natural stones are porous. Pro Tip: You may have heard of using lemon juice as a natural alternative to stronger acidic cleaners. To hold it in place, tape down the edges of the wrap. This Old House host Kevin O'Connor learns important maintenance tips from stone countertop contractor Jason Keefe. You can find these approved natural stone cleaning products available at our showrooms, just ask our team! A few special habits will greatly reduce your chances of scratching or staining your natural stone countertops. No frills, they can handle whatever you throw at them, even dings and divots don't look too glaring or detract from the overall appearance. Offers may be subject to change without notice. You will also want to use coasters under any type of beverage and trivets under hot pots and pans to protect the counter from water and heat marks. requires no particular skill, just a little elbow grease, $20 to $50, depending on silicone impregnator used, About one hour to seal stone counters in average-size kitchen. CA Ingredient DisclosureSoap in Seconds Ingredient Disclosure, Home | Products | FAQ | Store Locator | Contact Us. Then have it sealed again a year later that should do the trick. Whether you are wanting to maintain the finish of your countertops, or needing to give your countertops a little TLC and get the shine back, here are a few best practices when caring for granite, marble or other natural stones. Bar Keepers Friend Granite & Stone Cleaner & Polish is specially formulated for use on smooth, polished stone including granite, marble, and quartz. Practical and utilitarian, stainless steel countertops feel like they're straight out of a professional kitchen. You can seal and seal and seal, but you'll still see every finger-mark. If you want to disinfect a sealed concrete countertop, mix 1/4 cup of rubbing alcohol with two cups of water in a spray bottle. 1661 Highway 58 Swansboro, NC 28584 (252) 393-2457, 582 McCarthly Blvd. Put hot water and a squirt of dish soap in a spray bottle, spritz the counter and then wipe it down with a damp microfiber cloth. You may also need a special, heavy-duty sealer designed for marble to minimize staining and etching. You can conduct the at-home water test or contact us at Onslow Stoneworks. Here's What You Need to Know About Washing Pillows. Just be careful you dont use too high of a concentration. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Copyright 2022, 8 No-Sweat Tricks to Clean Any Type of Floor, 6 Things That Are Naturally Antibacterial to Safely Disinfect Your Home, olive oil on a paper towel rubbed into the stainless steel. Many sealers need time to cure before you can use your countertops or get them wet, so be sure to observe the guidelines provided. Keep your natural stone countertops looking like new by knowing how to maintain them on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis. If you're dealing with a stain, it's smart to reach out to your manufacturer for specific instructions and cleaner suggestions. For an everyday cleaning, use hot water, dish soap, and a dish sponge to scrub off stuck-on spills or residue. Its best to get a product like Goo Gone and rub it into the stain. Baking soda and acetone work well. Such as DIY and life-hacks that offer tips and tricks for cleaning and maintaining granite, marble or other natural stone, unfortunately, more often than not some of this information can actually damage your surface. Real and engineered stone are the stars of the countertop world. All rights reserved. I had a client who spilled melted lard all over his stone counters and tile floor. Despite your best efforts, stains and scratches will sometimes occur. Do not use any scouring creams or powders (like the type you use on porcelain bathroom fixtures). Well review the basics of countertop maintenance as well as how to care for a variety of surfaces, including engineered stone (quartz), solid surface, and natural stone countertops. Acid-based cleaners such as vinegar, lemon juice or citric acid will wear down the protective seal on your stone. These three simple tasks take little time and effort, but can make a huge difference in the look and lifespan of your natural stone surfaces. This combination is gentle enough to keep your stone in excellent condition while still eliminating germs. Follow the process as you do with granite. Beautiful natural stone counters are highly durable and look great in the modern kitchen. Now that weve covered the basics of maintenance, lets take a deeper look at the care needed for some of the most common types of natural stone countertops. Connect with us to see what a completed kitchen with natural stone countertops could look like! A major pain point with stainless steel surfaces is how easily they collect fingerprints and smudges. There are some substances that are included in many dish soaps that can lead to a film on the surface of your stone, causing streaking, hazing or a generally cloudy look over time. Keep in mind, limestone is softer and more porous than other stones, so its especially susceptible to staining from dark colors and acidic foods like coffee, black tea, or red wine. That stain on your stone countertop can be removed and, more importantly, prevented. 2022 R & D Marble. You can remove most coffee or juice stains with a little hydrogen peroxide in water, plus a few drops of ammonia. Lemon juice can cause the same damage to natural stone countertops as stronger cleanersdont use it! Coffee or mustard, for instance, can be removed with chlorine bleach, by dipping a cotton ball or white paper towel in the bleach and applying directly to the stain. Then, pantry cabinets, a soaker tub, and kitchen lighting are installed at the house. Use a white cotton cloth to rub silicone impregnator into stone surface.Treat limestone and marble four times annually and granite twice per year; engineered stone doesnt require sealing.2. Other surfaces like granite, slate, and sandstone can also safely be cleaned while leaving a fresh citrus scent behind. It's more durable than the lighter limestones from Greece or the Baltic regions, which are beautiful but too porous. Try one of these three easy methods to make sure your ring fits perfectly, every time. Natural stone countertops add a touch of elegance to any kitchen and are certainly a durable choice. But if you want to get a little tougher, try scrubbing with a plastic bristled brush or other non-abrasive scrubber and some baking soda. To remove stains from marble, such as food stains or rust marks left by metals, mix baking soda and hydrogen peroxide and apply generously, then let dry about 24 hours before wiping it away. This slightly abrasive paste will help scrub away messes. What's the worst stain you've ever helped remove? A little bit ofolive oil on a paper towel rubbed into the stainless steelwill help prevent them! FLORENCE PERCHUK, KITCHEN DESIGNER, DESIGNS BY FLORENCE PERCHUK LTD; 212-245-0999; FPERCHUK@AOL.COM, .css-d1h32f{color:#000000;display:block;font-family:Visuelt,Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;font-weight:bold;margin-bottom:0;margin-top:0;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;-webkit-text-stroke:0;}@media (any-hover: hover){.css-d1h32f:hover{color:link-hover;}}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-d1h32f{font-size:1.0625rem;line-height:1.2;margin-bottom:0.3125rem;}}@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-d1h32f{font-size:1.125rem;line-height:1.2;margin-bottom:0.3125rem;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-d1h32f{font-size:1.25rem;line-height:1.2;margin-bottom:0.625rem;}}Here's What You Need to Know About Washing Pillows, The Best Laminate Floor Cleaners for Your Home, The Best Natural and Non-Toxic Cleaning Products, The Only Spring Cleaning Checklist You Need, What to Get Rid of Before the New Year Starts, These Allergens Could Be Lurking in Your Laundry. The year 1882 was in the midst of the Gilded Age, an era of prosperity from 1870 to 1900. While solid surface is very non-porous and does not require any sealing, it is less durable than many of the natural stone options, meaning youll need to be extra careful with preventative maintenance and cleaning. I'm terrified whenever I see someone's new white kitchen. Many stains will gradually fade over time, but you can repeat the process as needed. You haven't mentioned slate or soapstone. For any tough stains or messes, use a bleach-free cleaner like Soft Scrub and a sponge. Once you have figured out what caused the stain, you can get to work removing it. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Making Bathrooms & Kitchens Beautiful Since 1979. If you are unsure, try to narrow it down by reliving what was going on around the countertop when the stain was made and evaluate the shape, color, and size of the stain. Here's How to Tell. Preventative maintenance and regularly cleaning are all that they require to remain beautiful and functional for years to come. Wipe with a damp cloth and dry afterwards. To learn more about how to safely clean your stone countertop or purchase cleaning and sealer products visit Connecticut Stones website today, and have it quickly shipped to someones home or project site!
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