How to Care

Marble Technique, Inc

Caring for Your Natural Stone

Natural stone brings timeless beauty, durability, and value to your home. With proper care and maintenance, your countertops and other stone surfaces can retain their appearance for years to come. By following a few simple guidelines for sealing, cleaning, spill prevention, and everyday protection, you can help preserve the natural beauty of your investment and keep your stone looking its best. For more information, please contact Marble Technique, Inc or visit our showroom.

Sealing Your Natural Stone

Natural stone is created over millions of years and, while durable, it is naturally porous. Without proper protection, stone can absorb liquids and become susceptible to staining. Applying a high-quality impregnating sealer helps create a protective barrier against moisture and oil-based spills.


Different stone types may require different sealing products, so it's important to choose a sealer designed specifically for your stone. Premium impregnating sealers penetrate below the surface to provide long-lasting protection while maintaining the stone's natural appearance. Regular sealing, as recommended by the manufacturer, is one of the most effective ways to protect your investment.

Cleaning & Routine Maintenance

Regular cleaning helps maintain your stone's beauty and prevents premature wear. Dust, dirt, and grit can act as abrasives that dull or scratch certain natural stone surfaces over time.


For everyday care:


  • Sweep, dust, or wipe surfaces regularly to remove loose dirt and debris.
  • Clean with warm water and a soft, non-abrasive cloth, sponge, or mop.
  • Use a pH-neutral cleaner specifically formulated for natural stone.
  • Dry surfaces after cleaning to prevent water spots and residue buildup.


Avoid using:


  • General-purpose household cleaners
  • Products containing vinegar, lemon, citrus, or other acids
  • Bleach, ammonia, or harsh chemicals
  • Abrasive powders, creams, or scouring pads


These products can damage the stone's finish, degrade sealers, or cause discoloration and etching.


Responding to Spills & Stains

Even with proper care, spills will occasionally happen. Prompt cleanup is the best way to protect your natural stone.


Acidic Spills & Etching


Acidic foods and beverages such as coffee, wine, citrus juices, vinegar, tomato products, mustard, and soft drinks can etch certain stones, including marble, limestone, and travertine. Sealing helps resist staining but cannot prevent the chemical reaction that causes etching.


If etching occurs, professional stone restoration may be necessary to fully restore the surface.


Food Spills

  • Remove food residue with a plastic spoon or scraper.
  • Blot the area with a clean, white cloth.
  • Clean with a stone-safe cleaner and dry thoroughly.


Liquid Spills

  • Blot immediately with a clean, dry cloth.
  • Avoid wiping, which can spread the spill.
  • Clean the area with a stone-safe cleaner and dry completely.


Mud & Dirt

  • Allow mud to dry before cleaning.
  • Remove dried residue with a soft nylon or plastic brush.
  • Clean the area with a stone-safe cleaner.
  • Contact a professional if staining remains.


Oil-Based Stains


Cooking oils, butter, cosmetics, and similar substances can penetrate stone surfaces. Many oil stains can be treated with a specialty poultice designed specifically for natural stone. Always follow the product manufacturer's directions for best results.

Protect Your Investment

Following these simple precautions can help extend the life and beauty of your natural stone:


Do:

  • Use coasters beneath beverages, especially those containing alcohol or citrus.
  • Place trivets or heat-resistant pads under hot cookware and dishes.
  • Use placemats beneath dishes, silverware, and decorative items.
  • Place rugs or mats at entryways to reduce dirt and grit tracked indoors.
  • Dust and clean countertops, islands, vanities, and floors regularly.
  • Wipe up spills as soon as they occur.
  • Clean surfaces with water or a stone-safe cleaner formulated for natural stone.


Don't:

  • Use vinegar, bleach, ammonia, or harsh household cleaners.
  • Apply acidic bathroom, grout, or tile cleaners to stone surfaces.
  • Use abrasive cleaning products, powders, or scrubbing pads.
  • Use alkaline cleaners not specifically designed for natural stone.
  • Allow spills to remain on the surface for extended periods.


With regular maintenance and proper care, your natural stone surfaces will continue to provide lasting beauty, functionality, and value for years to come.