Cleaning Procedures & Recommendations
Keeping your stone free of dust and dry, sandy soil will minimize the scratches and wear-patterns that can develop from everyday use of some natural stone such as marble, limestone and sandstone. Sweep or dust all natural stone surfaces regularly to remove loose soil and dust.

Clean your natural stone on a regular basis with warm water and a mild dish soap such as Ivory Liquid, and a clean non-abrasive cloth, sponge or mop. In addition, using a natural cleaner specially formulated for natural stone will help remove soils that normal dusting or damp mopping leaves behind.

Do not use general purpose cleaners, or you may damage your stone or sealer. Do not use products that contain lemon, vinegar or other acids, as they may etch the stone surfaces, and damage the polish. Do not use scouring powders or creams; these products contain abrasives that may scratch the surface.

Countertops and Vanities
Products such as Revitalizer by Stone Tech, or Marbamist by Stone Care International (available at Home Depot, Lowes) may be used on a regular basis to remove residues from cooking oils and everyday food spills, as well as hairspray or other cosmetics. Many common foods and drinks contain acids that may etch or dull the stone surface. Also, some common toiletries (e.g., perfume, toothpaste and mouthwash) contain acids and other ingredients that may damage the stone surface or degrade the sealer.

Baths and Other Wet Areas
Periodic use of Marble and Stone Cleaners and Polish will remove any soap scum or hard water deposits that may have formed. In the bath or other wet areas, using a squeegee after each use can minimize soap scum and hard water deposit buildup.

What to do When a Spill Occurs
No matter how careful you are, spills are going to happen. A quick response and the right solutions can keep spills from damaging your stone or the sealer.

Etch Marks  – Substances that are highly acidic, such as orange juice, coffee, vinegar, wine, tomato products, mustard and many soft drinks will “etch” most marble, limestone and travertine, whether the stone is sealed or unsealed. Although sealing allows you time to wipe up a spill, it cannot stop the chemical reaction that may leave a dull area or etch mark in the stone.

Additionally, cleaners not specifically designed for natural stone are not recommended. These may etch away the polish, discolor the surface, scratch the stone, or degrade the sealer. That is why selecting the correct cleaning products is so important to the lifetime beauty of your natural stone.

Professional refinishing is the best way to permanently remove etch marks, and restore you natural stone's even finish.

Food Spills  – Scoop up the food with a plastic spoon. Blot with a dry, white cloth. Spray with a stone cleaner. Wipe dry with a clean cloth.

Liquid Spills  – Blot away the excess with a clean, dry, white cloth; turning the cloth frequently. Spray the area with a stone cleaner. Wipe dry with a clean dry cloth.

Oil Stains  – If you indentify the stain as having an oil base (from foods like salad and cooking oils, butter, or some cosmetics) you may be able to remove the stain using a poultice. These easy to use poultices are designed to slowly remove oily stains from natural surfaces. Follow the directions on the label.

DO AND DON'TS

• Do use coasters under glasses, especially if they contain alcohol or citrus juices.
• Do use trivets or mats under hot dishes or cookware
• Do dust countertops, islands and vanities frequently
• Do blot up spills immediately to minimize permanent damage to the stone
• Do clean surfaces by wiping with clean water or spraying with a stone cleaner, then wiping dry with a clean cloth
• Don't use vinegar, bleach, ammonia or other general-purpose cleaners
• Don't use abrasive cleaners such as dry cleaners or soft cleaners
• Don't use alkaline cleaners not specifically formulated for natural stone