A Maintenance Guide for Natural Stone

Stone Floor Maintenance Guide: Daily and Deep Cleaning

Proper maintenance is key to preserving the beauty and longevity of your stone floors. Regular cleaning, combined with occasional deep cleaning, ensures that your floors remain in top condition. Below is a simple guide to maintaining your stone floors, whether you’re dealing with limestone, marble, travertine, or any other natural stone.

Daily Cleaning:

For everyday cleaning of your stone floors, we recommend using a pH-neutral cleaner. This type of cleaner is gentle on your stone and won’t cause any damage to the surface or sealant. Follow these simple steps:

1. Sweep or Vacuum: Begin by sweeping or vacuuming the floor to remove dust, dirt, and debris. Avoid using a vacuum with a beater bar, as it can scratch the surface of the stone.
2. Mop with pH-Neutral Cleaner: Fill a bucket with warm water and add the recommended amount of pH-neutral cleaner. Use a soft mop or microfiber cloth to clean the floor, ensuring it’s not too wet. Excess water can seep into the stone, potentially causing long-term damage.
3. Dry the Floor: After mopping, wipe the floor with a dry cloth or towel to prevent water from pooling and creating stains.

Tip: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your pH-neutral cleaner to ensure the best results.

Deep Cleaning:

For more thorough cleaning, especially in areas with heavy traffic or stubborn stains, you may need to use an alkaline cleaner. Alkaline cleaners are designed to break down grease, grime, and dirt that cannot be removed with regular cleaning products. Here’s how to do it:

1. Sweep or Vacuum: As with daily cleaning, start by sweeping or vacuuming the floor to remove loose debris.
2. Prepare the Alkaline Cleaner: In a bucket, mix the alkaline cleaner with warm water according to the instructions on the label. Ensure the solution is well-diluted to avoid causing any damage.
3. Mop the Floor: Using a soft mop or sponge, apply the alkaline cleaner to the stone surface. Focus on high-traffic areas or any spots with stubborn stains. Allow the solution to sit for a few minutes to break down the dirt.
4. Scrub Gently: For tougher stains, use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the area. Be cautious not to use harsh scrubbers that could scratch the surface.
5. Rinse and Dry: Once the floor has been cleaned, mop again with clean water to remove any remaining cleaner. Finally, dry the floor with a soft towel or cloth.

Tip: Limit deep cleaning to once a month or as needed. Overuse of alkaline cleaners can weaken the sealant and dull the surface.

What to Avoid:

1. Avoid Acidic Cleaners: Never use acidic cleaners, such as vinegar, lemon, or harsh commercial products, on your stone floors. Acidic substances can damage the stone’s surface, causing etching, discoloration, and irreversible damage. Stone is naturally porous, and acids can erode the surface, leading to dullness and stains that cannot be repaired.
2. Excess Water: Always be cautious with water. While stone is durable, excessive moisture can seep into the material, especially in joints or grout lines, leading to potential damage like staining or even mold growth.
3. Avoid Abrasive Scrubbers: Steel wool or abrasive sponges can scratch the surface of your stone floor, leaving permanent marks. Always use soft cloths or mops when cleaning.



By following this guide and using the proper products, your stone floors will remain beautiful, functional, and durable for years to come. Regular care, along with occasional deep cleaning, will ensure that your floors continue to look as good as new. If you need professional cleaning or advice, feel free to contact us at Dynamic Floor Care!