The only way you can keep your travertine countertops looking new is if you take good care of it. Read the HomeQuicks article to find easy-to-follow cleaning instructions and maintenance guidelines.
Did You Know?
The outer wall of the Colosseum is made up of around 3,531,467 cubic feet of travertine stone.
Used as countertops in kitchens and bathrooms, for fireplace mantels, and as floors, travertine looks really appealing and gorgeous. Travertine countertops are considered to be elegant, yet are prone to scratches, stains, etches, and burns. Although the stone is quite strong, it can get affected with dirt, grease, oil, and other staining agents. Which is why it becomes so important to clean and maintain it on a regular basis.
Cleaning Techniques
The price you pay for cleaning these countertops is really high when you have permanently stained or scratched the surface(s). Don’t make such a mistake, and get to the stains as soon as possible with either of these options.
Materials Needed
- Water, 1 gallon
- Oil soap, 1 cup
- Soft brush
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Baby powder
- Masking tape
- Plastic wrap
- Lint-free towels
- Hand gloves
Option 1
In a bucket, dilute 1 cup oil soap with a gallon of water. Soak the brush, and gently scrub on the affected surface. See if the stains are coming off; if not, then follow the second option.
Option 2
In a bowl, mix hydrogen peroxide and baby powder together (the quantity will depend on the amount of stain to be cleaned). Make a smooth paste, and spread the mixture generously over the stain. Place a plastic wrap over the stain and secure it with the masking tape at its edges. Keep it on for about 24 hours, and let the paste dry completely. Remove the dried paste, and rinse the area with clean water. Wipe it with clean lint-free towels, and repeat the process if necessary.
Maintenance Guidelines
Do …
- clean the spills from your kitchen countertops immediately; it will minimize the damage to the stone.
- use mats to place hot dishes and cookware on the surface.
- keep place mats under ceramics, silverware, and china that can scratch the surface of the stone.
- use coasters under the beverage glasses that contain alcohol and other juices.
- use a trusted sealer to protect the stone and clean the surface regularly.
- use trays and baskets to place your toiletry products in.
- dust and mop the marble floors on a regular basis.
- seal your countertops, once a year, so that they are protected from stains.
Don’t …
- take a long time in cleaning up the spills off the stone.
- clean with bathroom, grout, and tub cleaners which contain acid.
- use vinegar, bleach, and ammonia for general cleaning purposes.
- use harsh scrubs and other abrasive cleaners on the stone surface.
- utilize alkaline cleaners as they are not specific for such countertops.
- keep toiletry products right on top of the surface.
If there are any permanent stains or damages on the countertop, you need to call a professional to restore the surface. Instead of going through such a major expense, follow the above mentioned dos and don’ts religiously and avoid the hassle altogether.