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 cleaning solutions and or approved stone cleaners. Types of siliceous stone include granite, slate, sand­stone, quartzite, dolomite, brownstone and bluestone. Many stones are quarried through­out the world in a variety of colors with varying mineral compositions. In most cases, your stone can be identified by visible particles at the surface of the stone. Each type of stone is unique and will vary in color, texture, hue and marking.

Clean your stone surface with a neutral cleaner, stone soap or a mild liquid dishwashing detergent and warm water. Use a clean rag and or a soft cloth for best results. Too much cleaner or soap may leave a film and cause streaks or residue. Rinse the surface thoroughly after washing with the soap solution and dry with a soft cloth. Do not use acidic cleaners and or scouring powders or creams; these products contain abrasives that may scratch the stone. If you should get sand, abrasive dirt or grit on your counters, be sure to either vacuum or dry dust off prior to using a cleaner. Sand, dirt and grit do the most damage to natural stone surfaces due to their abrasiveness.

You may use coasters under all glasses, particularly those containing alcohol or citrus juices. Many common foods and drinks contain acids that will etch or dull the surface of many stones, however, they will not affect the surface of a true granite or 100 percent quartzite. Do not place hot items directly on the stone surface. Use trivets or mats under hot dishes and placemats under china, ceramics, silver or other objects that can scratch the surface. Cutting should be done on a cutting board.

Your stone counters supplied by Ohio Tile and Marble have been sealed at our facility with an industry approved impregnator/penetrating sealer. We do recommend in food preparation areas as well as sink areas, to re-apply another coat of sealer after 2 to 3 years. If you have any questions, please check with an Ohio Tile and Marble sales representative.

Identifying the type of stain on the stone surface is the key to removing it. If you don’t know what caused the stain, play detective. Where is the stain located? Is it near a plant, a food service area, an area where cosmetics are used? What color is it? What is the shape or pattern? What goes on in the area around the stain? Surface stains can often be removed by cleaning with an appropriate cleaning product or household chemical. Deep-seated or stubborn stains may require using a poultice or calling in a professional.

The following sections describe the types of stains that you may have to deal with and appropriate household chemicals to use and how to prepare and apply a poultice to remove the stain.