- Cleaning Tips
- Helpful Tips
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT CLEANING NATURAL STONE –
Natural stone can be classified into two general categories according to its composition: siliceous stone or calcareous stone. Knowing the difference is critical when selecting cleaning products. Siliceous stone is composed mainly of silica or quartz-like particles. It tends to be very durable and relatively easy to clean with mild acidic cleaning solutions. Types of siliceous stone include granite, slate, sandstone and quartzite. Calcareous stone is composed mainly of calcium carbonate and will react to acidic foods such as lemons or tomatoes. This reaction will result in a dulling in surface sheen and change in texture, otherwise referred to as “acid etching”. Cleaning products that work on siliceous stone may damage the surface of calcareous surfaces. Types of calcareous stone include marble, travertine, limestone and onyx. As a general rule of thumb, whenever a spill occurs, immediately blot the spill with a paper towel. Don’t wipe the area; it will spread the spill. Flush the area with plain water and a mild liquid dishwashing detergent. Rinse several times. Dry the area thoroughly with a soft cloth. Do not use products that contain lemon, vinegar or other acids on marble or limestone. Do not use scouring powders or creams; these products contain abrasives that may scratch the surface.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT CLEANING QUARTZ –
Engineered quartz surfaces blend modern sophistication and timeless luxury with unbeatable strength and durability. The ever-lasting finish requires only simple and routine care to maintain its good looks. To clean quartz, we recommend using warm water and a mild detergent. Quartz is Minimal Maintenance, Virtually maintenance-free, Quartz hard, non-porous surfaces require no sealing to renew its luster and are simple to clean. In most cases, soap and water or a mild detergent is enough to keep your Caesarstone surfaces looking like new. If necessary, use a non-abrasive soft soap along with a non-scratch or delicate scrub pad. Afterwards, thoroughly rinse with clean water to remove residue. For stubborn stains or dried spills please refer to the manufacturer’s website for better details on what is recommended.
Dos and Don’ts:
DO use a cutting board in all kitchen countertop applications DO use coasters or placemats under all glasses, particularly those containing alcohol or citric juices DO use trivets under china, ceramics, silver or other objects that might scratch or scorch the surface DO protect flooring applications by using walk-off mats or area rugs DO dust mop floors frequently DO clean surfaces with mild detergent or stone soap DO thoroughly rinse and dry the surface after washing DO blot up spills immediately
DON’T place hot items directly on the stone surface DON’T use vinegar, lemon juice or other cleaners containing acids on marble, onyx, limestone or travertine surfaces DON’T use cleaners that contain acid such as bathroom cleaners, grout cleaners or tub and tile cleaners DON’T use abrasive cleaners such as dry cleansers or soft cleansers DON’T mix bleach and ammonia; this combination creates a toxic and lethal gas DON’T ever mix chemicals together unless directions specifically instruct you to do so
A comprehensive care and maintenance plan helps ensure long-term satisfaction with a material choice. These recommendations are based on those from The Marble Institute of America & our Quartz manufacturers. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the information outlined here, please contact your Mega Granite Sales Consultant for more information.