Dog Stain

Pet Stains on Carpet

Posted on by Surface Care PROS Support

We love our pets, dogs, cats, ferrets, birds, etc. They bring us laughter and joy. They console us when we are sad and stay by our sides when we are sick. Unfortunately, they can’t talk to us and tell us what they need. So, sometimes, accidents occur.

Pet urine stains and odors on carpets can be a common challenge for pet owners. Whether you have a new puppy still in the process of house training or an older pet with occasional accidents, it’s essential to address urine stains promptly to prevent long-term damage and lingering smells.

One of the primary concerns with pet urine is that it can seep into the carpet fibers and, if not properly treated, can lead to permanent staining and unpleasant odors. Here are some effective steps to tackle pet urine stains and smells on carpets:

  1. Act Quickly: The sooner you address a pet urine accident, the better. Blot the urine with paper towels or a clean cloth to absorb as much liquid as possible. Avoid rubbing the stain, as it can push the urine deeper into the carpet.
  2. Apply the Cleaning Solution: Enzymatic pet stain cleaners are excellent for pet stains and odors. These cleaners contain bacteria and enzymes that break down the components of urine, effectively eliminating both stains and odors.
  3. Finish with Baking Soda: Once the area is mostly dry, sprinkle baking soda over the stain. Baking soda not only helps absorb remaining moisture but also neutralizes odors. Leave it on the carpet for several hours or overnight.
  4. Vacuum the Area: After the baking soda has had time to work its magic, vacuum the treated area thoroughly. This will help remove the baking soda along with any remaining odor.
  5. Professional Cleaning: For stubborn stains or persistent odors, professional carpet cleaning services may be necessary. Professional cleaners have the expertise and equipment to deep clean carpets and remove tough stains.
  6. Preventive Measures: To avoid future incidents, make sure your pet has regular bathroom breaks and is properly trained. Use pet-friendly deterrent sprays to discourage repeat accidents in specific areas.

Dealing with pet urine stains and odors on carpets requires quick action and the right cleaning techniques. By following these steps and maintaining preventive measures, you can keep your carpets clean and free from the lingering effects of pet accidents. For more information, see our Carpet Care Guide.

By Sharon Koehler. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.

Leathered

Textured Surfaces on Natural Stone

Posted on by Surface Care PROS Support

Textured natural stone finishes, such as honed, flamed,  sawn, river washed or tumbled, have gained popularity in interior and exterior design for their unique eye-catching appeal and functional qualities. These finishes offer a departure from the traditional polished surfaces, providing a distinct look and feel. However, like any design choice, they come with their own set of pros and cons that should be carefully considered.

Let’s look at some of the pros and cons of textured natural stone finishes:

Pros:

  1. Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal: Textured natural stone finishes add depth and character to surfaces, creating a more natural and rustic appearance. The honed finish, for instance, showcases a matte appearance with a soft, velvety touch, while river washed finishes emulate the smoothness and weathered look of river stones. This aesthetic versatility allows for a broader range of design possibilities, making these finishes suitable for both modern and traditional settings.
  2. Improved Slip Resistance: One of the notable advantages of textured natural stone finishes, especially river washed, is their enhanced slip resistance. The uneven surface creates additional traction, making these finishes ideal for areas prone to water exposure, such as bathrooms, kitchens, or outdoor spaces. This finish enhances safety and reduces the risk of accidents due to slipping.
  3. Conceals Wear and Tear: Textured finishes are effective at concealing minor scratches, etches, or wear and tear compared to their polished counterparts. The matte surface of honed granite, for example, tends to camouflage small imperfections, maintaining a more consistent and pleasing appearance over time.
  4. Less Reflective: Unlike a polished finish, textured finishes are less reflective, which can be beneficial in spaces where glare or excessive light reflection is a concern. This makes them suitable for areas with abundant natural light or spaces where a subdued ambiance is desired.

Cons:

  1. Susceptible to Stains: Textured natural stone finishes, particularly honed surfaces, may be more susceptible to staining compared to polished ones. The porous nature of these finishes allows liquids and substances to penetrate more easily, making it important to promptly clean up spills to avoid permanent stains. Regular sealing is often recommended to mitigate this issue.
  2. Reduced Shine and Luster: While some homeowners appreciate the matte appearance of honed, flamed or river washed finish, others may miss the high-gloss shine associated with polished surfaces. If a glossy, reflective finish is a priority for a specific design vision or décor idea, textured finishes may not fulfill that requirement.
  3. Maintenance Challenges: The textured nature of these finishes can pose challenges when it comes to maintenance. Cleaning and maintaining textured natural stone may require more effort compared to polished surfaces. Dirt and grime can accumulate in the uneven crevices, making it necessary to thoroughly clean the stone more often to preserve and maintain it’s appearance.
  4. Limited Color Intensity: Textured finishes may not showcase the natural color and veining of the stone as prominently as polished surfaces. The process of honing or river washing can mute the colors and patterns, resulting in a less vibrant appearance. This may be a drawback for those who want the full visual impact of the stone.

The choice between textured natural stone finishes and polished ones depends on individual preferences, practical considerations, and the intended use of the stone. While textured finishes offer a distinctive aesthetic and improved slip resistance, they come with trade-offs in terms of maintenance and potential staining. Careful consideration of these pros and cons will help homeowners and designers make informed decisions based on their specific needs and preferences.

By Sharon Koehler. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.

Carpet Cleaning

Protecting Your Carpet

Posted on by Surface Care PROS Support

Protecting your carpet throughout the year is essential to ensure it remains clean and pristine despite increased foot traffic, holiday decorations, pets, weather, and potential spills that happen as the year passes. Birthday parties, graduations, monsoon weather events, wet, dirty pets and various other events can have a damaging effect on your carpet. Here are various tips to safeguard your carpet and maintain its quality throughout the year.

  • Strategic Rug Placement: Utilize rugs or runners in high-traffic areas to act as a protective layer for your carpet. Placing rugs in entryways, hallways, and areas prone to heavy use can prevent direct contact with shoes and potential stains.
  • Shoe-Free Home Policy: Implement a shoe-free policy to minimize the amount of dirt, moisture, and debris tracked onto your carpet. Provide a designated area for shoes near the entrance to encourage guests to remove their footwear.
  • Regular Vacuuming: Increase the frequency of vacuuming prior to and during  gatherings and other events to remove dirt, crumbs, and other debris. Regular vacuuming helps prevent these particles from embedding deep into the carpet fibers.
  • Immediate Stain Treatment: Accidents happen, especially during gatherings and events. Have a stain removal plan in place and address spills immediately. Blot stains with a clean cloth or paper towel without rubbing, as rubbing can push the stain further into the carpet.
  • Protective Furniture Pads: Place felt or plastic pads under furniture legs to prevent them from damaging or crushing the carpet fibers. This will also make it easier to move furniture when rearranging rooms for seating and/or decorating.
  • Cautious Decoration Installation: Be careful when installing event or holiday decorations to avoid causing damage to the carpet. Utilize non-damaging methods like hooks or clips that won’t tear or pull at the carpet fibers.
  • Limit Food and Drink in Carpeted Areas: To prevent accidental spills, establish designated eating areas away from carpeted spaces. Use trays or tablecloths to contain crumbs and spills, minimizing the risk of them reaching the carpet.
  • Regular Professional Cleaning: Consider scheduling a professional carpet cleaning before and after any planned gathering. This deep cleaning can remove embedded dirt, stains, and refresh the carpet’s appearance.
  • Pet Precautions: If you have pets, be mindful of their presence and the potential for accidents. Keep pet-specific stain removers readily available to tackle any accidents promptly. Refer to immediate stain treatment if they track in any mud or debris.
  • Preventative Measures: Consider applying carpet protectants or sealants, which can create a barrier against stains and make cleaning up spills easier.
  • Inform Guests: Make your guests aware of your carpet care guidelines, especially if you have specific instructions regarding shoes, food and drink areas, or any other precautions they should take.

By implementing these measures, you can significantly reduce the wear and tear on your carpet during the events of the year. Proper care and maintenance will help preserve your carpet’s quality and appearance, ensuring it remains a beautiful and inviting part of your home, even during the busiest times that life brings.

By Sharon Koehler. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.

travertine-shower

Routine Maintenance for Travertine Showers – 7 Tips

Posted on by Surface Care PROS Support

We received a question recently asking for tips for maintaining a travertine shower.

Q: Hello! I am wondering if you could give tips on the best daily/weekly maintenance of a newly sealed travertine shower?  The best way to keep soap scum, and oils from building up?

A: Great question! To keep soap scum and oils from building up, and keep your travertine shower looking great, here are 7 tips and suggestions:

1. Regular Cleaning:

Wipe down your shower surfaces after each use with a squeegee or a microfiber cloth to prevent water spots and soap residue from drying on the travertine. Keep a squeegee in the shower for convenience.

2. Use a Mild Cleaning Solution:

Use a pH-neutral stone cleaner or a mixture of warm water and a few drops of dish soap to clean your travertine. Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners that can damage the sealant.

3. Avoid Harsh Scrubbing:

Gentle scrubbing with a soft brush or cloth is sufficient. Avoid using abrasive scrubbers or pads that can scratch the surface.

4. Rinse Thoroughly:

After cleaning, make sure to rinse the shower thoroughly with clean water to remove any residue.

5. Preventive Measures:

Consider using a shower caddy to keep shampoo bottles and soap off the shower floor. This can help reduce soap scum buildup.

6. Ventilation:

Ensure proper ventilation in your bathroom to reduce humidity, as high humidity can promote mold and mildew growth. Keeping the shower door open a bit when not in use helps.

7. Sealant Maintenance:

Have your shower walls re-sealed as needed to maintain the protective barrier. This helps prevent oils and water from penetrating the stone. Why do we say shower walls? We don’t recommend sealing the shower floor. Here’s why:

Why Sealing a Shower FLOOR is Not Recommended

When it comes to maintaining your stone shower, conventional wisdom might suggest that sealing both the walls and floor is the best way to protect the stone from water damage and staining. However, this is not entirely true, especially for the shower floor. While sealing the walls of a stone shower can be beneficial, sealing the floor can lead to unforeseen problems, primarily due to trapped moisture.

Stone is Naturally Porous

Stone, a natural and porous material, is often chosen for shower floors due to its aesthetic appeal and durability. These pores, while microscopic, are essential for the stone to ‘breathe’, allowing moisture to evaporate naturally. When you seal a stone shower floor, you effectively trap moisture beneath the surface. This is particularly problematic in a high-moisture environment like a shower. Unlike walls, which have time to dry out and are not constantly underfoot, the floor is regularly exposed to water and pressure.

Discoloration and Damage

Moisture entrapment creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew to thrive. These not only pose a health risk but can also cause a musty odor and further discolor the stone. Trapped moisture can lead to discoloration, a common issue with sealed stone floors. In extreme cases, the trapped moisture can also weaken the stone, leading to cracking and chipping.

In Conclusion

By following these tips, you should be able to keep your travertine shower looking its best. If you have any more questions or need further advice, feel free to reach out to us.

By Fred Hueston. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.

Color Of Marble Article

From Earth to Elegance: What Makes Marble Colors?

Posted on by Surface Care PROS Support

Have you ever gazed upon your marble, adorned with its array of exquisite colors—some vivid and striking, while others exude a more refined and graceful allure—and pondered the origins of these beautiful hues? After learning how these colors are formed, you’ll never look at your marble quite the same.

Marble is a metamorphic rock that forms from limestone through the process of metamorphism. (Alteration of rock by heat, pressure, or other natural occurrences). During this transformation, a range of factors influence the coloration of marble, giving rise to the stunning array of colors and patterns that make each marble type unique. The main factors that contribute to the colors of marble are mineral composition, impurities, and geological processes. Let’s explore each of these aspects in detail:

Mineral Composition

Marble is primarily composed of calcite or dolomite minerals, which are both forms of calcium carbonate. (Calcium carbonate is a combination of carbon, oxygen, and calcium and is a common mineral found throughout the world.) The crystal structure of these minerals allows them to interact with light in different ways, influencing the perceived color of the marble. The presence of other minerals and impurities further enhances these color variations.

Impurities

Impurities are foreign substances that find their way into the marble during the metamorphic process. These impurities play a significant role in determining the color and patterns exhibited by the marble. Some common impurities found in marble include:

Iron Oxides

Iron impurities can give marble various shades of red, brown, yellow, and orange. Hematite creates reds and yellows, while limonite produces browns and yellows.

Graphite

The presence of graphite can lend a gray or black color to the marble.

Clay Minerals

Clay minerals introduce earthy tones such as beige, tan, or brown to the marble.

Serpentine

Serpentine impurities create green marble, such as the famous Verde Antique marble.

Sulfides and Organic Materials

These can lead to black or dark veining in the marble.

Geological Processes

The geological history of the region where the marble forms can also influence its color. The presence of specific minerals or the type of rock that undergoes metamorphism alongside the limestone can contribute to the unique colors and patterns. Additionally, the intensity of heat and pressure during metamorphism will impact the recrystallization of minerals and the formation of specific colors.

Local Geography and Environment

Different regions around the world are known for their distinct marble colors and patterns due to variations in the local geology and environment. For example, Carrara marble from Italy is famous for its white color and has been used in many famous sculptures and buildings. The Danby marble from Vermont, USA, is prized for its pure white color and minimal veining.

Age and Degree of Metamorphism

The duration and intensity of the metamorphic process can influence the colors of marble. Marble that undergoes extensive metamorphism over prolonged periods may have a more uniform color, while marble that experiences variable conditions may show a greater variety of colors and patterns.

The mesmerizing colors of marble result from a complex interplay of mineral composition, impurities, geological processes, and the specific environmental conditions where the metamorphism takes place. This diversity in colors is what makes marble such a sought-after and cherished material for various commercial, residential, and artistic applications.

By Fred Hueston. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.

Natural Fiber Hemp Rugs

About Natural Fiber Hemp Rugs

Posted on by Surface Care PROS Support

From time to time we are asked if we clean hemp rugs, or our customers will ask our opinion of hemp rugs vs other, more traditional types of natural fiber material. Do they hold up well? Are they easily maintained? Are they eco-friendly… etc. Here’s our take on hemp rugs…

Yes, we do clean all types of rugs, including hemp. Here is a little insight into hemp rugs, vs other more traditional types of fibers: Most of the time, when people think about natural fiber rugs, they think about wool or cotton. Maybe even sisal or jute, but very seldom do we think about hemp as a natural fiber rug. However, as it turns out, hemp can be and is made into rugs.

The biggest problem hemp has is people’s assumptions that hemp plants and Cannabis (aka marijuana plants) are one and the same, but they aren’t. What they are is 2 different varieties of the same plant species. (Like a housecat and a tiger or a Great Dane and a Dachshund).

There are several real differences between the plants themselves:

  • Hemp – Tall sturdy stalks with little to no flowering buds.
  • Cannabis – Shorter, bushier plants with an abundance of flowering buds.
  • Hemp – Very low THC content (.03% or less).
  • Cannabis – Higher THC content (can be upwards of 30%).
  • Hemp – Hemp has many commercial uses such as rope, paper, fabric, and biofuels.
  • Cannabis – Grown strictly for medicinal and recreational reasons.

As noted, hemp has many commercial and industrial uses, one of which is rugs. Like other natural fiber rugs, they have their good and bad points:

Pros of hemp rugs:

  • Durability – Hemp fibers are known for their durability, making hemp rugs robust and long-lasting. They can withstand high traffic areas without wearing out quickly, making them a great choice for homes or offices.
  • Hypoallergenic – Hemp rugs are hypoallergenic, making them an excellent option for individuals sensitive to allergens. They do not trap dust or harbor allergens like some other materials, enhancing indoor air quality.
  • Environment Friendly – Hemp is a highly sustainable material. It requires minimal water, no pesticides, and grows quickly, making it an eco-friendly choice for rugs. Its cultivation helps to improve soil health and can be part of a regenerative agricultural cycle.

Cons of hemp rugs:

  • Color – Hemp fibers may have natural color variations due to the plant’s organic composition. While this can add a unique aesthetic, it might not suit those seeking a uniform color or pattern.
  • Texture – While durable, hemp rugs can be rough to the touch, especially when compared to softer materials like wool or cotton. Some people might find the texture less comfortable, particularly for sitting or walking barefoot.
  • Shedding – Hemp, like some other natural fiber rug material is prone to shedding. Regular vacuuming can help keep this under control.

Hemp has found its way into various industries, including the creation of durable, eco-friendly rugs. While hemp rugs offer durability and sustainability, they might not suit everyone due to their texture, shedding, and natural variations. Understanding these pros and cons can assist in making an informed decision when considering hemp rugs for your living or working space.

By Sharon Koehler. This is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.

to-seal-or-not-to-seal

STONE TOPS: TO SEAL OR NOT? A Simple How-to Test

Posted on by Surface Care PROS Support

Not all stone countertops need to be sealed but most will benefit from the added protection —”an ounce of prevention,” so to speak. Here’s an easy test to know if yours needs to be sealed—or re-sealed. It’s called the “Water Test,” and it is so simple:

  • Clean the surface of your countertop with a stone-safe cleaner, making sure to remove oils and grease.
  • Let the surface dry completely.
  • Pick out a few different areas to test. Preferably, areas that get a lot of use or are prone to spills and stains. These areas will be the most likely to have worn-down protection.
  • Pour a little bit of water onto your test areas. A few spoonfuls at least.
  • Let the water dwell for a bit. Give it 4-5 minutes or so.
  • Wipe away the water. After a couple of seconds, look carefully at the area. If there is no evidence that water had been spilled you’re good to go. However, if the water soaked in and left a dark spot (not a stain, as it will eventually dry out) then it’s time to reseal.

Tips About Resealing

  • Even if only one area in the test absorbs the water, we recommend a complete re-seal. It’s an all-or-nothing necessity.
  • Failure to reseal can lead to damage such as permanent or difficult-to-remove stains on your countertops.
  • Having a pro do the job will ensure the proper type of sealer is used and common sealing problems are avoided.
  • Re-test every year or so.

Your countertops are not only an investment, they play a significant role in the appearance of your kitchen. The simple act of keeping them properly sealed will go a long way in keeping them looking great for years to come.

By Sharon Koehler. This is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.

dust-mopping-marble

Essential Do’s and Don’ts for Natural Stone Care

Posted on by Surface Care PROS Support

Essential Do’s and Don’ts for Natural Stone Care: Preserving the Beauty of Your Investment

Natural stone surfaces, whether in the form of countertops, floors, or decorative accents, add timeless elegance and charm to any space. However, to maintain their beauty and durability, it’s crucial to follow a set of do’s and don’ts when it comes to natural stone care. In this article, we will explore the essential guidelines to ensure your natural stone surfaces remain stunning for years to come.

Do’s for Natural Stone Care:

  1. Regular Cleaning: Clean your natural stone surfaces regularly using a pH-balanced, neutral stone cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals or acidic cleaners that can etch or damage the stone’s surface.
  2. Sealing: Keeping your stone adequately sealed will go a long way in protecting against stains. You can tell when your stone needs to be resealed by spilling a little bit of water on the surface, allow it to dwell a few minutes, then wipe away. If a dark spot remains after a few seconds, indicating the water was absorbed into the stone, it’s time to reseal.
  3. Use Coasters and Trivets: Place coasters under glasses to prevent stains and trivets under hot pans to prevent heat damage to your stone countertops. Most stone will not be damaged by hot items, but if there are resins used to strengthen some granites, hot pans can damage the resins.
  4. Spills and Stains: Wipe up spills as soon as they occur to prevent staining. If you do get a stain, refer to our Stain App or give us a call.
  5. Dust and Sweep: Dust mop, dust mop, dust mop. Regularly dust and sweep natural stone floors to prevent abrasive particles from scratching the surface.
  6. Use Soft Cleaning Tools: Opt for soft brushes, microfiber cloths, or mop heads for cleaning to avoid scratches or damage. Use a separate mop for your marble floors.

Don’ts for Natural Stone Care:

  1. Avoid Acidic Substances: Never use vinegar, lemon juice, or other acidic substances for cleaning as they can damage the stone’s surface.
  2. Say No to Abrasive Cleaners: Stay away from abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, or powders, as they can scratch and dull the stone.
  3. Don’t Drag Heavy Objects: Lift heavy objects rather than dragging them across natural stone floors to prevent scratches.
  4. Skip the Bleach and Ammonia: Do not use bleach, ammonia, or any harsh chemicals on your natural stone surfaces, as they can discolor and degrade the stone.
  5. Avoid Sitting or Standing on Edges: Avoid sitting or standing on the edges of natural stone countertops, as this can cause cracks or breakage.
  6. Neglecting Maintenance: Address issues promptly. Reach out to us for help as needed.

Conclusion: Proper care and maintenance are essential for preserving the beauty and longevity of your natural stone surfaces. By following these do’s and don’ts, you can ensure that your investment in natural stone remains a stunning and timeless addition to your home or space for many years to come.

By Sharon Koehler . This is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.

Indoor Outdoor Rugs Cleaning

Indoor-Outdoor Rugs

Posted on by Surface Care PROS Support

Indoor-outdoor rugs have become more and more popular in recent years, offering a versatile flooring solution for both indoor and outdoor spaces. These rugs are made to withstand various weather conditions while maintaining a stylish appearance. However, like any product, they come with their own set of pros and cons that you should consider before incorporating them into your home or outdoor area.

Pros of Indoor-Outdoor Rugs:

  1. Durability: One of the most significant advantages of indoor-outdoor rugs is their durability. They are typically made from synthetic materials like polypropylene or polyester, which are resistant to moisture, UV rays, and mildew. This makes them perfect for high-traffic areas, such as patios, decks, and entryways, as they can withstand heavy use and exposure to the elements.
  2. Low Maintenance: Indoor-outdoor rugs are incredibly easy to clean and maintain. They can be hosed down, swept, or even vacuumed to remove dirt, dust, and debris. Stains are also less likely to penetrate the rug’s surface, making it easier to spot clean and maintain their appearance over time. This quality makes them good for homes with small children and/or pets.
  3. Affordability: Indoor-outdoor rugs are generally more budget-friendly than traditional indoor rugs made from natural fibers like wool or silk. This affordability allows homeowners to experiment with different styles and patterns without breaking the bank or wrecking the family budget.
  4. Fade Resistance: UV-resistant materials used in indoor-outdoor rugs help prevent fading caused by prolonged sun exposure. This means that even after years of outdoor use, the rug’s colors are likely to remain vibrant and true to their original appearance.
  5. Allergy-Friendly: Unlike some traditional rugs that can trap allergens like dust mites and pet dander, indoor-outdoor rugs are typically hypoallergenic and easy to clean. This makes them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers.

Cons of Indoor-Outdoor Rugs:

    1. Texture: While indoor-outdoor rugs have come a long way in terms of style and looks, they may not offer the same plush and soft texture as traditional indoor rugs. Some people may find them less comfortable to walk or sit on for extended periods.
    2. Limited Style Options: Although the variety of patterns and designs for indoor-outdoor rugs has improved, they may not offer the same level of customization and luxury as natural fiber rugs. If you’re looking for a specific texture or pattern, you may have to compromise when choosing an indoor-outdoor option.
    3. Environmental Concerns: Most indoor-outdoor rugs are made from synthetic materials, which are not biodegradable. This raises concerns about their environmental impact, especially when they reach the end of their lifespan. However, some manufacturers are working to create more sustainable options using recycled materials.
    4. Slippage: Indoor-outdoor rugs can sometimes be prone to slipping on smooth surfaces like tile or hardwood floors. To prevent accidents, you may need to invest in rug pads or anti-slip mats.

Indoor-outdoor rugs offer several advantages, including durability, easy maintenance, and versatility, making them a practical choice for many homeowners. However, they may not be the ideal option for those seeking luxury and comfort. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your specific needs, preferences, and where you intend to use the rug.

By Sharon Koehler. This is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.

Steam Cleaning

How Steam Cleaning Affects Natural Stone

Posted on by Surface Care PROS Support

There are many ways to clean natural stone, some are wrong, and some are right, which is why it is always recommended to leave heavy cleaning to an experienced stone care professional.

However, spills and other things can happen that need to be cleaned up right away. An often-asked question is: “Can I have my natural stone steam cleaned?” Steam cleaning is a very effective way to remove soil and contaminants without harsh chemicals. However, on marble, granite, and other natural stone, steam cleaning can be harmful.

These are some of the problems steam cleanings can cause on natural stone

  • Spalling – Steam cleaning can cause a condition known as spalling. Since most stone is porous, the high temperature of steam cleaning can cause pressure within the stone, which can lead to pitting and/or flaking of the surface of the stone.
  • Sealer Removal – Natural stone sealers inhibit staining. Impregnating sealers penetrate the surface of the stone. Color enhancing impregnating sealers intensify the colors in natural stone. Topical sealers form a strippable or permanent coating that covers the surface of stone. If natural stone is sealed, steam cleaning can remove the sealer leaving the stone unprotected.
  • Accelerated Crack Damage – As natural stone is fabricated, transported, and installed, stress on the material can sometimes cause cracks to form. Stone may also be cracked after installation because of accidental damage or environmental stresses. You may not even realize that any cracking has occurred. If natural stone has any cracks, the heat and pressure from a steam cleaner can cause the cracks to expand and open up, making the cracks more obvious and problematic.
  • Grout Damage – Grout can also be negatively impacted by continued use of steam cleaning if used regularly. Damage may include discoloration and the grout cracking and falling apart. Steam cleaning may also remove sealers that were applied to the grout.
  • Iron Oxidation – If the composition of your natural stone includes iron, steam cleaning poses a risk of discoloration. Moisture reacts with the iron, creating rust-like stains on and in the stone. Iron oxidation discoloration can be extremely difficult or even impossible to remove.

Residential vs Commercial Steam Cleaners

Can I use my store-bought steam cleaner on my natural stone?

Home-type steam cleaners may be safe to sparingly use on natural stone since these steam cleaners do not reach the same high temperatures as commercial steam cleaners. The maximum temperature of residential steam cleaners is about 250 degrees F, whereas commercial steam cleaners can reach temperatures of over 300 degrees F. However, even home-type steam cleaners should not be used on a regular basis.

Types of Steam Cleaners

There are several types of steam cleaners.

  • • Vapor steam cleaners look like a canister vacuum. They emit a fog of steam vapor to the surface with a wand. The temperature can reach over 200 degrees F.
  • Steam mops inject steam into a cloth mop. Generally, these are safer to use on natural stone than other types of steam cleaners since the temperature is lower. However, again, regular use is not recommended.
  • Handheld steam cleaners are simple to use and are good for spot cleanup. Using them on stone countertops or shower walls can result in the same type of damage as larger, higher temperature steam cleaners.

Steam cleaners are excellent at cleaning many, many things but, to be on the safe side, use a pH-neutral, stone-safe cleaner for routine cleaning of your natural stone, and let your stone care professional take care of any heavy cleaning.

By Fred Hueston. This is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.