Most people are cautious when it comes to stone cleaning . Detergent or vinegar? Rub hard or gently wipe? There are many questions. The road to brilliant stone maintenance can be compared to a winding, country-road, where each bend promises either spectacular success or disappointing failure.
Let’s start by looking at the materials. Each material has its own personality. The right cleaning agent is like choosing the key of a piano. The marble, which is known for its temperament, will react violently to any acidic cleaner. You should use a neutral pH cleaner – mild soap with warm water. The soap should be as gentle as your grandmother’s touch.
The limestone, due to its chalky appearance, requires minimal intervention. To avoid leaving stains that look like tears on the cheeks, use a damp towel followed by a dry, soft towel. With limestone, the old saying “less is better” really comes to life.
Granite is the Hercules stone. It can withstand more intensive cleaning methods. Overconfidence, however, can bring about regret. Even though it is tough, acidic cleaning agents can still leave dull scars on its surface.
The next step is to clean the stone – it’s a kind of dance. It’s like dancing on the floor without knowing how to dance. A dance of dismay can be the result of haphazard moves. Perform a spot-test: under a desk, behind a closed door or in a discrete area. You can avoid a costly mistake by performing a hidden spot test.
Make a poultice to remove stubborn stains from marble or granite. This method may sound archaic but it works. Mix baking soda with water to make a thick paste, similar to peanut butter. Cover with plastic wrap and leave it overnight. As the paste dries it will pull the impurities from the stone pores.
What about your daily routines? Dust and debris are the arch enemies of stone surfaces. Like uninvited visitors who won’t leave, they are a nuisance. Use a broom without a beater to sweep them away every day. Imagine it as a silent Ninja in stealth mode.
Spills require immediate attention. Imagine that a spill is like a neighbor who spreads gossip. If not dealt with quickly, the stain will spread. Paper towels are the best way to wipe up spills. Rubbing can cause the stain to penetrate deeper into your stone.
A professional touch is ideal for a deep cleaning every year or to handle larger areas such as floors and outdoor tiles. Consider sending your car or suit to be detailed, or to dry-cleaners. Professionals are equipped with the skills and tools to rejuvenate dull stones, returning them to their former glory.