Cleaning Procedures and Recommendations

 

Clean stone surfaces with a few drops of neutral cleaner, stone soap or a mild liquid dishwashing detergent and warm water. Too much cleaner or soap may leave a film or cause streaks. Rinse the surface thoroughly after washing with soap solution and dry with a soft cloth. Change the rinse water frequently. Do not use scouring powders or creams.

In the bath or other wet areas, soap scum can be minimized by using a squeegee after use. To remove soap scum, use a non-acidic soap scum remover or a solution of ammonia and water (about 1/2 cup ammonia to one gallon of water). Frequent or over-use of an ammonia solution may eventually dull the surface. Vanity tops and food preparation areas need to have a penetrating dealer applied every six months. In outdoor pool, patio or hot tub areas, flush with clear water and use a mild bleach solution to remove algae or moss.

 

Spills & Stains

Blot the spill with a paper towel immediately. Don't wipe the area, it will spread the spill. Flush the area with plain water and mild soap and rinse several times. Dry the area thoroughly with a soft cloth.
Repeat as necessary.
Identifying the type of stain on the stone surface is the key to removing it. Surface stains can often be removed by cleaning with appropriate cleaning product or household chemical. Deep-seated or stubborn stains may require using a poultice.

 

Oil-based (grease, tar, cooking oil, milk, cosmetics). This stain will darken the stone and normally must be chemically dissolved so the source of the stain can be flushed or rinsed away. Clean gently with a soft, liquid cleanser with bleach, OR household detergent OR ammonia OR mineral spirits OR acetone.

 

Organic (coffee, tea, fruit, tobacco, paper, food, urine, leaves, bark, bird droppings). Outdoors, normal sun and rain action will remove the stains, Indoors, clean with 12% hydrogen peroxide (hair bleaching strength) and a few drops of ammonia.

 

Metal (iron, rust, copper, bronze). Metal stains must be removed with a poultice**

 

Ink (magic marker, pen, ink). Clean with bleach or hydrogen peroxide (light colored stone only!) or lacquer thinner or acetone (dark stones only!)

 

**Making and Using a Poultice

A Poultice is a liquid cleaner or chemical mixed with a white absorbent material to form a paste about the consistency of peanut butter. Spread it over the stained area to a thickness of about 1/4 inch with a wood or plastic spatula, covered with plastic and left to work for 24-48 hours. You may have to repeat this process to thoroughly remove a stain.

 

Oil-based stains: Poultice with baking soda and water and water OR mineral spirits
Organic Stains: Baking soda and hydrogen peroxide solution OR acetone.