Daily Natural-Stone Cleaning

Most stone damage we see isn't dramatic — it's slow, caused by the wrong daily cleaner. The good news: correct daily care takes no longer than incorrect care. Here's exactly what to use, what to avoid, and why.

The one rule that matters most

Use a pH-neutral cleaner. Natural stone — especially marble, travertine, onyx and limestone — is sensitive to acids and strong alkalis. Vinegar, lemon-based sprays, bleach and many supermarket "bathroom" cleaners will slowly dull polished surfaces and etch the finish. A dedicated stone cleaner or a few drops of pH-neutral dish soap in warm water is all your benchtop needs.

Your daily routine

Wipe spills as they happen, especially wine, citrus, coffee and oil. Clean with a soft microfibre cloth and pH-neutral cleaner, then dry with a second cloth — leaving surfaces to air-dry can cause water spotting on darker stones. That's it. No polishing sprays, no wax products.

What to avoid

Abrasive pads and cream cleansers (they micro-scratch polished finishes), vinegar and citrus cleaners (etching), bleach and ammonia (dulling and discolouration), and dragging ceramic or cast-iron cookware across the surface. Always use boards and trivets — stone is heat resistant, not heat proof.

Porcelain and zero-silica are more forgiving

Porcelain slabs and zero-silica surfaces are non-porous and chemically resistant, so most household cleaners are fine — just skip abrasives on polished finishes. When in doubt, the pH-neutral rule keeps every surface in our range safe.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use methylated spirits on stone?

A 50/50 mix of methylated spirits and water is generally safe for streak-free cleaning on sealed granite and quartzite, but avoid it on marble, travertine and onyx. When in doubt, stick to pH-neutral.

My benchtop has dull patches around the sink — why?

That's usually early acid etching or sealer wear. Stop using the current cleaner, switch to pH-neutral, and see our sealing guide — the stone may be due for re-sealing.

How often should I deep clean?

With correct daily care, rarely. A quarterly clean with a dedicated stone cleaner is plenty for most kitchens.