How to Clean Natural Stone the Easy Way

Natural stones such as marble and sandstone are quite expensive, but also offer years of beauty and usefulness above other construction materials of equal cost. Keeping these natural stones clean and dust or dirt free will help keep scratches and worn areas to a minimum, while also simplifying the cleaning process. This article will give you the simplest way of cleaning natural stone with things you already have in the home.

Things You will need to Clean Natural Stone the Easy Way:

Cotton cloth

Dish washing liquid without bleaches or dyes

Bowl of warm water

Bowl of cold water

Old toothbrush

Drying cloth

Step 1:
Add a few drops of dish washing liquid to the bowl of warm water. Use the old toothbrush to stir in the liquid to create suds in the bowl of warm water. Place the cotton cloth into water and wring out well.

Step 2:
Start wiping the natural stone in a corner, in small circular movements. Turn the cotton cloth over many times in the same spot to avoid creating scratches with any dirt or grime that may be in the grout areas or on the stone itself.

Step 3:
Rinse the cotton cloth out in cool water and wring out thoroughly. Now wipe over the area again with the cool cloth to help seal in all the small porous areas in the stone. This wipes away the residue from the soapy water, but also rinses out any additional dirt or particles that may be left behind from the cotton cloth.

Step 4:
Allow the area to dry completely and go over with the drying cloth to buff out any water spots. Start in one area about 3 inches by 3 inches and move in a circular motion to remove all spots.

There are natural stone cleansers available on the market that is made specifically for use on floors, hearths or countertops that can be found in a local hardware store. Many flooring companies offer steam services for natural stone areas as well. In any case, when completing the cleansing at home, it is always best to sweep the area free of dirt and debris before beginning. Any leftover debris can scratch the area when cleaning or drying. Home cleansers can leave a residue on natural stone, and should always be rinsed well and dried to keep from having water spots.