Sealing & Maintaining Natural Stone
Surfaces
Maintaining the Beauty of Your Stone Surfaces
Natural stone is one of the most stunning and timeless materials you can bring into your home. With rich patterns, intricate veining, and variations in colour formed over millions of years, each slab of stone is truly unique. This natural artistry is what draws interior designers and homeowners alike to choose materials like marble, granite, quartzite, and onyx for benchtops, vanities, splashbacks, and more.
But with natural beauty comes the need for proper care. Understanding the hardness, porosity, and composition of the stone you’ve selected is essential for long-term performance and appearance.
Why Sealing Is Essential
All natural stones should be sealed before use, especially in kitchens and bathrooms where contact with water, food, oils, and cosmetics is common.
- While sealing can help to reduce the risk of staining, it does not make your stone completely stain-proof. Spills can still penetrate the surface, so it’s important to clean them up promptly to maintain the stone’s appearance and integrity.
- Not all sealers are the same, some offer longer protection and better performance based on your stone type. Always choose a high-quality sealer suited for your specific stone.
Tip: Some stones may require resealing every year, while others last much longer. It depends on the stone type, usage, and exposure.
How to Clean Your Natural Stone
Routine Cleaning:
- Use warm water and a mild dishwashing detergent.
- You can also use a stone-specific cleaner.
- Always use a soft cloth or sponge, avoid anything abrasive.
What to Avoid:
- Cleaners with vinegar, lemon, citrus, or acidic ingredients
- Bathroom cleaners, scouring powders, or cream cleansers
- Any cleaning tool that’s rough or gritty
Cleaning Tips:
- Always test new products in a discreet area first.
- Avoid using too much cleaner, excess soap can leave streaks or residue.
- Dry the surface with a clean microfiber cloth after cleaning.
Spills & Stains: What to Do
The golden rule of natural stone maintenance: clean up spills immediately.
To Clean Spills:
- Remove debris with a soft, dry cloth.
- Spot-clean the area, don’t spread the mess.
- Rinse with mild soap and water multiple times.
- Dry with a soft cloth.
- Repeat if needed.
If a stain remains or you're unsure how to treat it, contact your stone fabricator or a stone restoration specialist for expert advice.
Preventing Scratches & Etching
Scratching:
- Hard stones like granite and quartzite are more resistant to scratches.
- Softer stones like marble and onyx are more prone to surface marks.
Etching:
Etching occurs when acidic substances (like citrus juice, vinegar, wine, or harsh cleaners) react with the surface, leaving dull spots or light marks. It’s not a stain—it’s a chemical reaction.
Protect Your Stone – Simple Everyday Habits
Use trivets under hot pots, oven trays, and pans
Use coasters under glasses, especially for wine, juice, or soda
Avoid dragging heavy cookware, appliances, or sharp items on the surface. Use placemats, cutting boards, or protective mats when preparing food Store cosmetics or toiletries on trays in bathrooms to prevent spills and marks
Keep Your Stone Looking Beautiful
With the right care, your natural stone surface will age gracefully and maintain its original beauty for decades.
At Marble Hub, we guide all our clients on the best sealing, cleaning, and maintenance practices based on the specific stone they choose.
If you're ever unsure about the care of your stone, contact our team — we’re here to help you protect your investment and enjoy the natural beauty of your surfaces for years to come.
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