How to Clean Natural Stone Countertops

Many homeowners prefer stone countertops for their natural beauty, longevity, and easy maintenance. But many homeowners also don’t know the do’s and don’ts of taking care of their stone countertops.

There are more than a few tips to ensure that your natural stone countertops stay beautiful and provide decades of trouble-free use. Once you know a few of the basics for maintaining stone countertops, there’s a lot less stress when one of those accidental spills occur. Here’s a primer on what you need to know about how to clean natural stone countertops.

Do clean up all spills immediately when you see them before they penetrate. 

Do not allow these items on your countertops, especially without a coaster, as they can damage the surface: Drano, nail polish remover, vinegar, alcohol, citrus juices, ketchup, mustard, vinegar, rock salt, sand, shaving cream, and dishwashing soap.

Do make sure your countertops are sealed before using any type of cleaning product on them.

Do not set abrasive objects on your countertops. Grit, sand, scouring powders, and even porcelain dishes with unglazed bases, can damage the sheen of stone.

Do have your supplier seal the countertop several times as soon as it's installed and then again a year later. It is sealed properly when water forms droplets on the surface. 

Do not use scouring powders or creams on your countertops, as they contain abrasives that may scratch the surface.

Do consult a professional about which sealer to use on your particular style of stone, [suggests Housebeautiful.com http://www.housebeautiful.com/decorating/organize/maintenance-stone-countertops-0508].

Do not use products that contain lemon, vinegar or other acids as their high acid content may etch the surface. Same for cleaners that contain acid such as bathroom cleaners, grout cleaners or tile cleaners.

Do try this cleaning solution from [Motherearthliving.com http://www.motherearthliving.com/mother-earth-living/good-to-know-hone-your-stone.aspx#axzz3FalRRlFI] if you want to clean your countertops naturally: 2 tablespoons  biodegradable liquid soap and 3 3/4 cups water in a spray bottle. Wipe with a clean, soft cloth.

Do try using a paste made of flour and hydrogen peroxide, [suggests This Old House http://www.thekitchn.com/quick-cleaning-tip-use-flour-to-clean-stained-countertops-this-old-house-165118]. Mix and leave to sit overnight, and it will pull the stain off surface.

Do use a stain-removing poultice for bad stains, following these steps provided by marble-institute.com.