Surface Care · Stone-Safe
Which Cleaning Products Are Safe for Natural Stone?
The wrong bottle can permanently etch a marble counter in seconds. Here's what's safe, what isn't, and the one rule that covers most of it.
The One Rule: pH-Neutral
Natural stone — marble, travertine, limestone, and onyx — is calcium-based and reacts with acids. The single rule that prevents most damage: use only pH-neutral cleaners made for stone. Acidic and strongly alkaline products etch the surface, leaving dull marks no polishing fully removes.
What to Never Use
Keep these off natural stone: vinegar and lemon (common “natural” cleaners that are acidic), bathroom and tub-and-tile cleaners, bleach, ammonia, and abrasive powders or pads. Many all-purpose sprays are also too harsh. If a product doesn't say it's safe for stone, assume it isn't. See natural-stone tile care for the full picture.
What to Use
A dedicated pH-neutral stone cleaner, or simply warm water with a drop of mild dish soap for routine wiping, plus a soft microfiber cloth. Blot rather than scrub, and dry the surface to avoid water spots on polished finishes.
Vetted professionals who know stone handle tile, grout, and natural-stone cleaning and sealing. Request a quote.
Handling Spills
On stone, spills are a race — wine, citrus, coffee, and anything acidic should be blotted (not wiped) immediately, because etching happens fast. Sealing helps buy time against staining; see sealing explained.
When to Bring a Pro
For deep cleaning, restoring etched or dull stone, or sealing, a specialist is worth it — the cost of a mistake on stone is far higher than on tile.
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