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What Is the Best Thing to Clean Stone Floors With? A NYC Expert’s Guide
A natural stone floor is a timeless investment. Whether it’s a classic Marble lobby in a Manhattan high-rise, a rustic Slate entryway in a Westchester County home, or a sleek Granite kitchen floor in Brooklyn, it’s the foundation of your space’s design.
But we get this call every day: “Why is my stone floor always dirty?” or “Are stone floors hard to clean?” The truth is, stone floors are not hard to clean; they are just specific about how they are treated. As the Tri-State’s stone care experts, we’re here to give you the definitive “Do” and “Don’t” list.
The #1 Answer: What Is the Best Way to Clean a Stone Floor?
The single best thing to clean any natural stone floor with is a pH-neutral, stone-safe cleaner. Soft, calcium-carbonate stones (like Marble, Limestone, and Travertine) will have a chemical reaction with acids, leading to “etching”—dull marks that ruin a polished surface.
Avoid “soap and water.” Soaps leave a sticky film that attracts dirt, which is why your floor feels “always dirty.” Instead, follow these maintenance tips:
- Dry Mop: Remove grit and sand with a microfiber dust mop to prevent scratches.
- Damp Mop: Mix a high-quality, pH-neutral cleaner with cool water.
- Mop & Dry: Use a damp (not soaking) microfiber mop and buff away moisture with a clean cloth.
🛑 The DANGER List: What Should You NOT Clean Stone Floors With?
Using the wrong product one time can lead to a costly restoration call. NEVER use:
- Vinegar, Lemon, or Citrus: These acids will chemically etch and dull your stone.
- Bleach or Ammonia: These harsh chemicals break down sealers and corrode grout.
- Abrasive Powders: Products like Comet will physically scratch the surface.
Answering Your Specific Stone Floor Questions
How to clean a very dirty travertine floor? Travertine’s pits trap dirt that a regular mop can’t reach. This requires a professional deep clean to lift grime and re-seal the stone. If your stone has already lost its luster, you may need to learn how professionals make old stone look new through specialized equipment.
Can stone floors be steam cleaned? We advise against it. High heat can cause “thermal shock,” cracking the stone or damaging the resin in engineered surfaces. For a real transformation, marble floor polishing is the only way to restore elegance and shine safely.
How to Make Stone Floors Shine Naturally?
A “natural shine” is not a product—it is a physical property of the stone’s surface. You cannot “make” a floor shine with a bottle; those topical waxes just build up and turn yellow. The only way to achieve a mirror-like finish is through mechanical polishing using diamond-resin pads.
Are Stone Floors Hard to Clean?
They are not—they are just specific. If you have the right tools and a professional sealer, daily maintenance is easy. At Stone Guys NY, we are masters of the science behind stone restoration. Whether you need to restore historic Terrazzo or deep clean a modern lobby, we have the expertise to protect your investment.
If your stone floors look dull or stained, contact Stone Guys NY today for an expert consultation.
