How To Clean & Maintain Your Natural Stone Wall Tile

Natural stone tile is tough and can withstand the roughness of shoes, furniture legs, cleaning solutions, and other everyday household activities. However, like all flooring, it does need protection.

The first step is to ensure the stone is sealed. A good manufacturer will recommend this for all their products.

Sweep Daily

Sweeping natural stone wall tile surfaces remove dust particles that can scratch or mark the surface. A microfiber mop or broom is best for this task, but even a vacuum cleaner with a slippery floor setting may suffice if the stone has been sealed. On the other hand, unsealed stone can be harmed by accumulated dirt on the surface and must be rinsed off before the next cleaning.

A gentle, pH-neutral cleaner or stone soap formulated for stone should be used on floors daily to minimize the buildup of grime and residues that can etch or dull natural stone surfaces. Always use a microfiber cloth, a sponge, or a mop that can be rinsed clean after each use, and never leave a damp cloth lying on the stone, as this can promote the growth of mold and mildew.

Oil-Based Stains (grease, tar, cooking oil, cosmetics) and Water Spots and Rings (surface accumulation of hard water) are usually easy to remove with a soft liquid cleanser, household detergent, ammonia, or mineral spirits. If these marks aren’t removed immediately, they can permanently damage a stone surface.

It’s also a good idea to reseal your stone surfaces occasionally, depending on their original sealant condition and the amount of use they receive. You can quickly test a character to see when it requires resealing by rubbing a drop of water onto the surface—if it beads up, it’s ready to be resealed.

Vacuum Daily

A good quality vacuum cleaner can help keep the stone clean. Vacuuming removes dirt particles that can scratch the surface and help eliminate abrasive materials such as small rocks and sand that can wear down the material. Use a brush attachment that fits your natural stone tile for the best results.

If you use a vacuum with no dusting attachment, turn off the rotating brush so you don’t damage the tile. You can also use a soft brush attachment to get into corners and crevices.

When using a vacuum, ensure the hose and nozzle are clean, as these can easily pick up dust or other contaminants. Also, be sure to check the bag regularly. If it becomes full, change the bag to avoid overflowing and clogging.

Regular cleaning with a pH-neutral cleaner is recommended for all stone surfaces. These cleaners dissolve tough soils but are safe and gentle on stone. If your natural stone is etching or discoloring from acidic products, such as vinegar, lemon juice, household cleaners, grout cleaners, and bathtub and tile cleaners, consider getting a professional reseal of the stone.

Clean The Floor

Natural stone floor tiles like travertine, slate, limestone, and marble add a touch of elegance to the home. Whether sealed or unsealed, they’ll benefit from a regular cleaning routine to prevent damage and keep them looking showroom-fresh.

Begin sweeping to remove dirt particles that can scratch or dull the tile’s surface. Cleaning is more thorough than a vacuum cleaner and can be done with any broom. It’s a good idea to sweep daily or every other day, depending on the traffic and dust your stone surfaces are exposed to daily.

After sweeping, the next step is to rinse the stone floor with clean water. Avoid using a standard household all-purpose cleaner or an acidic soap because both can permanently stain or etch the tile. Instead, use a neutral PH stone cleaner that is easy to dilute with warm water.

Be careful not to soak the floors because some stones, such as sandstone and limestone, may start absorbing water after long-term exposure. The floors must be resealed, so consult your stone care specialist.

Clean The Wall

If your stone tiles are a polished surface, they will be more susceptible to staining than the honed or natural finishes. We recommend wiping up any spills immediately to help reduce the risk of stains. You can also use a neutral liquid “All-Purpose-Cleaner,” detergent, or cleaning solution specifically for stone. Changing the key frequently and thoroughly rinsing the tile and grout to remove accumulated pollutants is best.

Regular sweeping and vacuuming will help your stone tile look good for a long time. In addition to these everyday maintenance activities, regularly using a dust mop or duster is a good idea to eliminate stubborn dirt particles. A broom with a scrubbing head also removes dirt that tends to accumulate in the corners and between stone tile intersections.

Unlike artificially processed tiles, natural stone is not delicate; it has survived tough times in the quarries for thousands of years. It can withstand high traffic, rough shoes, and sharp furniture legs. However, it is susceptible to chemical etching and discoloration if not protected properly and regularly.

We recommend using an etch removal product for etch marks and discoloration on stone surfaces. It is essential to read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Some stones must be sealed to protect against etching and other damage. A professional stone care specialist can assess the current state of your stone and determine whether it needs to be re-polished, re-honed, or left as a natural finish.