Natural stone is an excellent material for kitchen and bathroom countertops, thanks to its durability and elegance. However, they require special care to maintain their luster and longevity. Below, we’ll detail the most common mistakes homeowners should avoid when cleaning their natural stone countertops to ensure they maintain their vibrancy for years to come.
1. Using the Wrong Cleaning Products
Carefully consider what you use to clean your home’s natural stone countertops. Using the wrong cleaners can damage your home’s countertops over time, so you should always avoid cleaning products and chemicals that are not intended for natural stone. Avoid using:
- Household cleaners with ammonia, such as some multi-surface sprays
- Cleaners containing bleach, including bathroom and kitchen disinfectants
- Cleaning products with acidic compounds
- Hydrogen peroxide-based cleaners, which can cause discoloration
- Oil-based soaps that may leave residues and dull the finish
- Products with high pH levels, including oven cleaners and drain cleaners
- Rust removers that contain harsh acids
Opt for pH-neutral cleaners that are specifically formulated for natural stone. These options effectively clean without dulling the surface or causing damage.
2. Not Cleaning Spills Immediately
While natural stone is durable, it is not invincible. Leaving spills to sit on the counter can lead to deep-set stains, especially when the spilled substance is wine, coffee, or juice. These liquids can seep into the porous surface of the stone, making them difficult to remove once they have set in.
Promptly wiping up spills with a soft cloth and water can prevent staining and ensure your countertops maintain their flawless look. Regular cleaning habits, including addressing spills immediately, are simple yet effective measures to preserve your stone’s integrity.
3. Overlooking the Importance of Sealing
Sealing natural stone countertops provides a barrier that prevents substances from seeping into the pores, reducing staining and etching risks. Special countertop sealers preserve the beauty and durability of stone by filling its pores, making it less vulnerable to spills, moisture, and everyday wear.
Countertop sealers maintain aesthetic appeal by preventing stains and discoloration, enhance longevity, and simplify cleaning by minimizing dirt and grime absorption. There are multiple types of countertop sealers for homeowners to consider, including:
- Impregnating Sealers: These sealers penetrate deep into the stone, creating a long-lasting barrier against water and oil-based stains.
- Topical Sealers: These sealers coat the surface of the stone to provide a glossy finish that enhances the stone’s natural color.
- Enhancing Sealers: These sealers protect and enrich the stone’s natural color and texture, giving it a more vibrant and polished appearance.
- Natural Look Sealers: As the name suggests, these sealers preserve the natural appearance of the stone while providing robust protection against stains and moisture.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and reapplication frequency. Many homeowners fail to keep up with sealing maintenance, which they should do annually or have a stone professional perform.
4. Using Abrasive Tools for Cleaning
Not only can the cleaners and their chemicals within do more harm than good to your stone countertops, but the tools you use can also damage more than clean the natural stone. Natural stone surfaces, such as granite, marble, and quartz, require special attention to preserve their elegance and durability.
When cleaning these surfaces, avoid using abrasive scrubbers, harsh cleaning pads, steel wool, and hard-bristled brushes. Instead, opt for soft cloths or sponges and mild, stone-safe cleaning agents to ensure your countertops remain pristine.
5. Neglecting Regular Maintenance
Consistent care is key to the longevity of natural stone surfaces, ensuring they retain their beauty and functionality over the years. Neglecting regular cleaning and maintenance can lead to a dull appearance as dirt and grime build up over time. By integrating a simple wipe-down of the countertops with a damp cloth into your daily routine, you can help maintain their natural luster and shine.
Make it a habit to dust surfaces regularly, as accumulated debris and dust particles can act like sandpaper, causing tiny scratches that gradually mar the surface. Use a soft cloth or duster to avoid any potential damage. By regularly caring for your natural stone surfaces, you can ensure they remain a stunning feature in your home for many years to come.
6. Allowing Acidic Substances to Sit
Certain foods, such as citrus fruits, tomato sauce, or vinegar, can etch natural stone if they sit on the surface for too long. Acidic substances react with the minerals in the stone, potentially causing permanent etching.
Should an accident occur, neutralize the spill immediately with water and clean it thoroughly to prevent damage. Being vigilant with potential acid culprits will preserve the polished look of your countertops.
7. Using Vinegar or Lemon Juice for Cleaning
Another mistake to avoid when cleaning natural stone countertops is to use solutions containing vinegar or lemon juice. While these cleaning solutions are easy to make yourself, they should never be used on the natural stone surface of your bathroom or kitchen counters.
The acidity of lemon juice and vinegar can degrade the stone surface, leading to dullness and spotting. To avoid these issues, consider using special natural stone cleaning products.
8. Not Drying the Surface Properly
Neglecting to dry your countertops after cleaning can lead to water spots or mineral deposits forming on the surface. These spots, though harmless, can detract from the stone’s polished appearance.
To prevent them, make it a habit to dry the surface with a soft, absorbent cloth after each cleaning session. This simple habit enhances the smooth finish and ensures your countertops always look picture-perfect.
9. Not Seeking Professional Advice
Each type of natural stone has its specific care requirements. Consulting with a stone care professional can help you care for your particular countertop material. Professionals can offer insights into the best products, techniques, and maintenance schedules suited to your stone.
At Detroit Diamond Tools, we know everything there is to know about stone are. Whether you need granite tool supplies or marble cleaning products, we’ve got you covered. Don’t hesitate to ask our expert staff for any insight or guidance on how to care for your natural stone counters.
10. Ignoring Heat Protection Measures
Natural stone countertops are heat resistant, but direct exposure to high temperatures can still cause damage. Placing hot pans, pots, or dishes directly onto the stone surface can lead to thermal shock, resulting in cracks or discoloration. To prevent this, always use trivets, hot pads, or heat-resistant mats when setting down anything hot.
Keep Your Natural Stone Countertops Looking Vibrant with Detroit Diamond Tools
Avoid these maintenance mistakes to preserve the elegance and functionality of your natural stone countertops. For those seeking high-quality stone care supplies and advice, look no further than Detroit Diamond Tools.
Our comprehensive range of products includes everything you need to keep your countertops in perfect condition. Visit us today to explore our products and keep your countertops immaculate with ease.
