Stone, Tile, and Grout - Care & Maintenance
How to keep your surfaces looking great.
Neutral pH Cleaners
Using neutral pH cleaners on natural stone is best because it helps protect the stone's integrity and appearance. Here’s why:
1. Acidic or alkaline cleaners can damage stone
- Acidic cleaners like vinegar, lemon juice, and some bathroom cleaners will etch or dull the surface of natural stones like marble, limestone, and travertine.
- Alkaline cleaners can also degrade certain types of stone over time, especially if they’re strong or used frequently.
2. Natural stone is porous
- All stone surfaces are porous, meaning they can absorb liquids.
- Harsh chemicals can seep in and cause staining, weakening, or internal damage.
3. Neutral pH (around 7) = gentle but effective
- Neutral pH cleaners clean without reacting chemically with the stone.
- They safely remove dirt, grime, and spills without affecting the sealant or stone finish.
4. Preserves sealant and finish
- Many natural stones are sealed to protect them. Acidic or alkaline products can strip the sealant, leaving the stone more vulnerable.
- Neutral pH cleaners maintain the protection layer longer.
Sealers
Sealing natural stone is necessary because stones are porous—meaning they can absorb liquids, stains, and even bacteria. A good sealant helps protect and preserve the stone’s appearance and integrity. Here's why it's important:
1. Prevents staining
• Natural stone can absorb things like oil, wine, juice, or coffee which could lead to permanent stains.
• Sealers create a temporary barrier that keeps spills on the surface, giving you time to wipe them up before they soak in.
2. Protects against moisture damage
• In places like bathrooms or kitchens, water can seep into the stone.
• Over time, moisture can cause cracks, mold, or mildew, especially in grout and stones like marble or limestone.
3. Makes cleaning easier
• Sealed stone repels grime and makes it easier to remove dirt, soap scum, or food residues.
• You won’t need harsh chemicals (which can damage the stone), because messes don’t bond as easily to a sealed surface.
4. Extends the life of the stone
• Regular sealing helps maintain the stone's natural beauty and structural strength over time.
• It greatly reduces the risk of staining or mold growth.
Mold and Mildew
There will be times when grout and natural stone in showers with poor ventilation are very prone to mold and mildew growth. This will take more than a nuetral pH cleaner to clean and sanitize the affected areas. In these instances, use a stone safe product such as Majestic Mildew Stain Remover.
How to test if your surfaces need more sealer
Pick a few high use areas of your natural stone.
Start by making a few small puddles of water on the surface.
Allow the puddles of water to sit for 15 minutes.
After 15 minutes, dry the area with a cloth, towel, etc.
If the area where the water was remains dark like the picture to the right, then water has absorbed into the stone. The stone requires more coats of a high quality impregnating sealer.
If the area is it's normal color after towel drying it, then it is sufficiently sealed. Test it again in 6 months to a year.
Note: It is easier to apply an extra coat of sealer proactively than it is to try to removed stains from coffee, wine, etc.
