These guidelines are based on the provision that your surfaces have been properly sealed and a dry mop/vacuum routine is being followed.
Kitchen Counter Clean as needed based on use (clean spills as they happen), using a counter cleaner, and if desired, a disinfectant counter cleaner on occasions. On polished stone surfaces, periodic use of a stone polish will help preserve stone surfaces.
Floor Clean twice a week using a neutral tile and stone cleaner. To agitate grime that may be lying in uneven areas of textured stone an in grout joints, a soft, nylon-bristle brush will come in handy.
Bath Counter Clean as needed based on use, using a counter cleaner, and with a disinfectant counter cleaner once a week. On polish stone, periodic use of a stone polish will help preserve the surface.
Shower & Tub
Clean with a disinfectant cleaner twice a week. Pay particular attention to floor and seat areas as this where most residues from soaps, shampoos and conditioners will settle. Scrub as needed with a soft nylon scrubber using a disinfectant cleaner. Stone polish should be used (on walls only) once a month.
Floors in General Surface dust, dirt and debris should be removed with a dust mop or vacuum prior to cleaning. All floors can be cleaned with a neutral tile & stone cleaner. A damp sponge mop is best for making contact with your surface, it may be necessary to dry the floor with a clean, terrycloth towel wrapped around your sponge mop to keep it from water spotting.
Floors washed more than once a week should alternate between usingneutral cleaner and clear water.
Never use a stone polish on floors of any kind.
Tips to Remember
Always keep loose debris (grit, sand, hair, etc.) off your floor. Always keep a floor mat near doorways leading inside your home. Always wipe up spills immediately. Always use products that have been tested or designated safe for use.
Periodically perform a thorough "spring cleaning" using same methods and materials. Periodically apply a stone wax on polished surfaces (except flooring). Periodically check all surfaces - especially shower enclosures - for missing grout or cracks and replace immediately.
Never assume that your builder, installer or stone fabricator sealed your stone - it is rare for these professionals to seal stone. Never use more water or cleaner than necessary - excessive water or cleaner can leave residue. Never use a vacuum with exposed metal or plastic pieces that can come in contact with your floor. Never use a string mop. Never use a chemical that has not been tested or is not designated safe for use on tile or stone. Never use a rug or carpet with a rubber backing.
Three Major Causes of Tile and Stone Problems
Abrasion Abrasion can be caused by any number of things - normal foot traffic, stray grit, moving furniture, the wheels on your vacuum cleaner or even the toenails on your pet.
Chemical Spills These encompass a variety of liquids with a wide range of effects, from the not-so-serious to the severe. Depending on conditions such as temperature and duration of contact, chemicals such as commercial bathroom cleaners, vinegar, alcoholic and carbonated beverages, fruits and fruit juices, cosmetics, oils, fluids from pets - even water - can all have an adverse effect on your stone.
Improper Maintenance While most abrasions and chemical spills are part of the routine or "normal" use of a stone surface, the leading avoidable cause is using the wrong cleaning methods.
