Question 1

What is the best cleaner for natural stone?

Accepted Answer

pH-neutral stone cleaners. Avoid acidic, bleach, ammonia, and abrasive cleaners.

Question 2

Can you use vinegar on natural stone?

Accepted Answer

Never. Vinegar is acidic and etches natural stone permanently.

Question 3

How often should you seal natural stone?

Accepted Answer

Annually for most stone, every 6 months for high-use areas like kitchens and bathrooms.

Question 4

What does it mean when stone is etched?

Accepted Answer

Etching is dull spots caused by acid (vinegar, lemon, wine, citrus juice) reacting with the stone. Professional polishing can restore.

Question 5

How do you remove stains from marble?

Accepted Answer

Make a poultice of baking soda and water. Apply, cover with plastic, let sit 24 hours, then wipe.

Question 6

Can you use granite cleaner on marble?

Accepted Answer

Yes if it's pH-neutral. Both stones require similar care. Avoid acid-based cleaners.

Question 7

How do you clean limestone?

Accepted Answer

pH-neutral cleaner only. Limestone is very acid-sensitive. Avoid vinegar, lemon, and harsh chemicals.

Question 8

How do you protect natural stone?

Accepted Answer

Seal regularly, use coasters and trivets, wipe spills immediately, use mats in entryways.

Question 9

How do you polish natural stone?

Accepted Answer

Use a stone polish designed for your stone type. Hire a professional for severely worn surfaces.

Question 10

Can you put hot pots on granite?

Accepted Answer

Granite is heat resistant but use trivets to prevent thermal shock and protect the seal.

Question 11

How do you remove water stains from natural stone?

Accepted Answer

Buff dry. For mineral deposits, use a stone-safe descaler. Seal regularly to prevent.

Question 12

What stone is most stain resistant?

Accepted Answer

Granite is the most stain resistant of natural stones. Quartz is more so but is engineered.

Question 13

How do you clean travertine?

Accepted Answer

pH-neutral cleaner with soft cloth. Avoid abrasives. Seal annually.

Question 14

Can you steam clean natural stone?

Accepted Answer

Avoid steam cleaning natural stone. The heat can damage seals and the stone itself.

Question 15

How do you remove scratches from granite?

Accepted Answer

Light scratches: granite polish. Deep scratches require professional resurfacing.

Natural Stone Care FAQ