Caring for Natural Stone: Cleaning Tips & What to Avoid
How to Maintain Marble, Granite & Quartzite for Long-Term Beauty
Natural stone brings a sense of elegance and timelessness to your home. Whether it’s marble, granite, quartzite, or travertine, these materials are prized for their character, veining, and durability. But to keep them looking their best for years to come, proper care and maintenance are key. At Intero, we often work with natural stone from suppliers like G-Lux, whose premium slabs are used across kitchens, bathrooms, and laundries. While they’re strong and resilient, natural stone surfaces are still porous and can be sensitive to certain products or practices.
For everyday upkeep, the best approach is simple and gentle. A soft cloth or sponge with warm water is often enough to wipe down the surface. When a little more is needed, a mild, pH-neutral dish soap can be added. It’s important to avoid abrasive pads or rough sponges, as these can leave behind fine scratches, especially on polished surfaces. Using a microfiber cloth or a soft non-scratch sponge helps maintain the stone’s original finish.
What you don’t use is just as important as what you do. Cleaners that contain vinegar, lemon, or any other acidic ingredients can etch and dull the surface, especially on softer stones like marble or limestone. Bleach and ammonia are too harsh and can damage the protective sealant over time. Even general-purpose household sprays can contain additives that aren’t suited for natural stone and may leave residues that affect the stone’s appearance. Powdered cleaners or scouring agents may seem harmless but often result in microabrasions that dull the surface gradually.
Because natural stone is porous, it’s essential to wipe up any spills immediately. Liquids like red wine, coffee, orange juice, and tomato sauce can stain if left sitting. While many of the stones we use at Intero are sealed upon installation, it’s still wise to reseal them every one to two years, depending on the level of use. Daily habits make a difference—placing coasters under glasses and using mats under serving dishes helps reduce wear, while avoiding direct contact with hot pans can prevent thermal shock or staining.
Natural stone is a long-term investment. With proper care, it maintains its visual appeal and performance year after year. The beauty of natural stone is in its uniqueness—each slab tells its own story. And just like any heirloom piece, it deserves to be preserved with attention and respect. At Intero, we guide our clients through every stage, including care tips and product advice, so that the surfaces we install stay as stunning as the day they were fitted.
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