Granite tiles and other types of natural stone tiles can make great floors for your kitchen and bathroom. They’re durable and aesthetically pleasing, making them worth the price. Another advantage of natural stone floors is that they are reasonably easy to clean and maintain. So, let’s look at some tips and advice on how to clean your granite floors and other natural stone floors.
Choosing cleaning products for natural stone floors
You don’t want to use any cleaning products that could potentially damage or weaken your stone floors. Just like your stone countertops, anything that is overly acidic can stain or etch your floors. It is best to look for products that are “neutral” rather than too acidic or too alkaline. Products that say they don’t leave behind a residue are also good choices. Cleaners that are specifically designed for natural stone floors could be your safest bet.
If you want to use homemade cleaners instead of store-bought ones, then avoid acidic ingredients like vinegar, lemon juice, and ammonia. A mild dish soap mixed with warm water can do the trick in most instances, although you may need something stronger for more stubborn stains.
Sweep and vacuum regularly
Natural stone is a tough material, but it isn’t immune to scratches and dents. Sweeping and/or vacuuming regularly will keep your floor free of debris and small particles that could scratch the stone as people walk over it. A quick sweep every day is a simple task that could help to keep your floors in good condition.
Mopping stone floors
Next, use your chosen cleaning solution to mop your floors with warm water. Or you may just be able to spray your cleaner on the floor and clean the surface using a dry mop, depending on what kind of product you’re using. Make sure to get into those grout lines between the tiles as well. It’s a good idea to scrub the grout lines occasionally with a smaller cloth or tool to clean them deeper, preventing dirt and grime from building up too much.
Sealing stone floors
You can keep your natural stone floors in good condition for longer if you seal them to reduce their porosity and help to prevent staining and scratching. Have your stone floors sealed when you get them installed and then reseal them once a year or so to keep the sealant intact.
If you’re looking for quality granite or other types of natural stone for your floors, walls, or countertops, then contact Amanzi Granite to get a quote, or visit us in our Kernersville showroom to see our stone up close to help you decide.
