Keep It Simple
You don’t need to use complicated or specialized chemicals on your natural stone counters for day-to-day cleaning. Use a pH-neutral cleaner, and your good to go!
Our Natural Stone Cleaner Recipe
Wise Stone Choice’s recommends mixing a few drops of blue Dawn dishwater soap into a spray bottle and filling the balance with water (the water should have a light blue tint) to create a pH-neutral cleaner.
Keep It Clean
To clean natural stone counters, wipe away any dust or spills with a clean, damp microfiber cloth or paper towel, then use the spray bottle of Dawn soap and water to mist the counters. Finish by using a dry microfiber cloth or paper towel to wipe the counters clean.
Clean It Quick
The key to keeping your natural stone looking new is to wipe up spills immediately and to avoid putting potential stain sources directly on the surface. These stain sources include bleach, ammonia, oils, fruit juice, sodas, coffee, fresh fruit, meats, makeup, or hot items. Be sure to use cutting boards, trivets, and coasters to avoid direct contact.
Gentle Is Best
Using acidic or alkali cleaners is a major cleaning mistake and can etch the counter’s surface over time. Acidic or alkali cleaners include Windex, Lysol, and any other cleaners that have lemon juice, vinegar, citric acid, citrus extract, essential oils, ammonia, or bleach as part of their chemical composition. You should also never use an abrasive pad, wire cleaner, brush or even a sponge, as they can scratch the surface. Instead, use a damp microfiber cloth or paper towel, which collects dust and dirt, rather that moving it around.
Sealing Counters
There are two types of sealers. Topical sealers provide a protective top layer and require reapplication every year or two, causing homeowners to sometimes shy away from natural stone. There are also impregnating sealers for natural stone that last up to fifteen years without reapplication. Wise Stone Choice uses the latter to have our customers avoid the headache of more frequent maintenance.
As you can see, proper sealing combined with safe cleaning methods can keep your counters looking new for many years. If you have any further questions, please feel free to reach out to us at (260) 749-8062 or stop at our showroom at 5733 SR 930 E, Fort Wayne, IN 46803.
